Everyone knows the twelve zodiac animals; they are our animal signs. There are only twelve zodiac signs, so many people share the same sign. There are many riddles about the zodiac animals. So, what zodiac animal is represented by the one with a short tail and sparse hair? Let's find out.
What zodiac animal is associated with a short tail and sparse hair?
The phrase "short tail and sparse fur" refers to the rabbit in the Chinese zodiac. Rabbits have very short tails and very sparse fur, which is a very obvious external characteristic of rabbits. Therefore, the answer to the riddle of "short tail and sparse fur" is the rabbit.
What are the twelve zodiac animals?
The twelve zodiac animals, also known as the Chinese zodiac, include the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. The history of the twelve zodiac animals is very long, with records dating back to the pre-Qin period.
Where did the twelve zodiac animals come from?
1. Totem Culture
One theory suggests that the Chinese zodiac originated from totem culture and carries various symbolic meanings. Since ancient times, different body parts have been associated with animals of worship. For example, the ox symbolizes agrarian society; it is said that Shennong, the Yan Emperor, had a "bull's head and a human body," so his descendants adopted the ox as their totem.
2. Animal worship
Some people also say that the twelve zodiac animals originated from animal worship. In primitive societies, human productivity was relatively low. Livestock such as pigs, cattle, and sheep were closely related to agricultural activities, while animals such as tigers and snakes could threaten human safety, causing people to feel fear. All these reasons ultimately led to the formation of the zodiac.
3. Astrological Associations
In addition, some scholars have proposed that the twelve zodiac animals are not only related to real animals but also have an "astronomical" background, relating to the ancients' associations with celestial phenomena. For example, the Horse (午), Dragon (辰), and Tiger (寅) are related to the images of these constellations.
