申

Saru (Monkey) is the ninth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac.

Meaning and Symbolism

The character for the Monkey originally meant "to stretch" or "to groan," representing the state where fruits become fully mature and firm. By extension, it signifies progress and growth. Because monkeys resemble humans and possess high intelligence, they have been revered as messengers of mountain gods in Japan. The word saru sounds like the Japanese word for "to leave" or "to go away," making them a symbol of warding off evil and misfortune ("evil departs").

Personality Traits

People born in the Year of the Monkey are traditionally believed to be:

• Witty and Clever: Quick thinkers who can swiftly grasp situations and act flexibly.
• Curious: Highly interested in new things and unknown worlds, eager to try everything.
• Sociable: Excellent communicators who can quickly build rapport with anyone.
• Flippant: Sometimes seen as a "jack of all trades, master of none," or perceived as shallow due to their playful nature.