丑

Ushi (Ox / Cow) is the second animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac.

Meaning and Symbolism

The character for the Ox symbolizes a seed germinating in the soil but not yet breaking through, representing a period of patience, building foundations, and enduring hardships. Historically essential to agriculture and transportation, the Ox represents "honesty," "perseverance," and "diligence." In Japan, oxen are revered as the divine messengers of Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning enshrined at Tenmangu shrines.

Personality Traits

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

• Honest: Straightforward, trustworthy, and disliking deceit.
• Patient: Capable of enduring difficult situations and seeing things through to the end.
• Steady: Prefer to move at their own pace without being influenced by others.
• Stubborn: Once they make up their minds, they rarely change it, which can sometimes appear inflexible.