Combined Western and Chinese Zodiacs
Scorpio Rat

The eighth Western sign, Scorpio, symbolizes late middle-age in a human lifetime, around the mid-50s. Often this is the time of a human's greatest impact, when they ascend to leadership or dominance, and perform at the height of their intellectual and social powers. Scorpio thus represents great potency as a zodiac sign. These are determined people: charismatic, demanding, highly sexual, hilarious, explosive. They have a profound sensitivity to the full spectrum of existence, from tragedy to ecstasy. Scorpio's element, Water, is always associated with variation, and the Fixed modality of Scorpio brings the forceful potential of Water into sharp focus. Thus, while Scorpios may fulfil many destinies, they are always likely to bring unbridled intensity to their endeavors. For long term security, it is vital for Scorpios to turn their passions outward and allow others to benefit from their depth of vision, rather than suffering under the weight of their talents and perception alone.

The first creature in the Eastern zodiac, who according to legend triumphed in the Jade Emperor’s race by hiding in the ear of his dear friend the Ox, is the Rat. As charming as they are beguiling, Rats are famously rapier-witted, shrewd, and financially astute. They are the wordsmiths of the Chinese zodiac—Shakespeare was a Rat, after all—but equally appreciate the value of secrecy. They are likely to excel at any role involving judicious disclosure or confidentiality. Above all, they are ingenious in their ability to anticipate and strategize, skills that often last them long into peaceful old age.