This week’s new moon, on Wednesday, Jan. 29, will signal the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, which is this year called the "Year of the Snake."

In traditional Chinese culture, which is largely centered around agriculture, the ox has always been regarded as essential, symbolizing diligence and dedication. It works hard and makes significant contributions to agriculture and the lives of rural residents. For this reason, folktales suggest that the ox ranks second in the zodiac order.

There are 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, which have astrological and cultural meanings, and each animal is associated with certain characteristics