1968 Chinese Zodiac: Year of the Earth Monkey Explained
1968 is the Year of the Earth Monkey in the Chinese zodiac. This article explores the unique personality traits, love compatibility, career outlook, and Feng Shui lucky elements for people born in this year. Discover what makes the Earth Monkey special.
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you were born in 1968, your Chinese zodiac sign is the Earth Monkey. In Chinese astrology, each year is associated with one of twelve animal signs and one of five elements. The combination for 1968 is the Earth Monkey, known in Chinese as Wushen (戊申). This pairing creates a unique energy that shapes the personality, relationships, and life path of those born under this sign.
The Chinese zodiac is not just about animals. It is a complex system rooted in the lunar calendar and the Five Elements theory. Understanding your zodiac sign can offer valuable insights into your strengths, weaknesses, and how you interact with the world. The 1968 Chinese zodiac is particularly interesting because the Earth element brings a grounded, practical quality to the naturally clever and energetic Monkey.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the 1968 Chinese zodiac. You will learn about the exact dates, personality traits, love compatibility, career guidance, and Feng Shui lucky elements for the Earth Monkey. Whether you were born in 1968 or know someone who was, this guide will help you understand the deeper meaning behind this fascinating zodiac sign.
What is the 1968 Chinese Zodiac?
The 1968 Chinese zodiac is the Year of the Earth Monkey. In the traditional Chinese calendar, this year begins on January 30, 1968, and ends on February 16, 1969. However, it is important to note that the Chinese zodiac follows the lunar calendar, not the Gregorian calendar. This means that people born before January 30, 1968, actually belong to the previous year, which was the Year of the Fire Goat.
The 1968 zodiac sign is represented by the Heavenly Stem Wu (戊) and the Earthly Branch Shen (申). Together, they form the stem-branch combination Wushen (戊申), which is the 45th position in the 60-year sexagenary cycle. This cycle has been used in Chinese astrology for thousands of years to mark time and predict fortunes.
The Lichun Solar Term
In the BaZi (Four Pillars of Destiny) system, the zodiac year actually begins at Lichun, the Start of Spring solar term. Lichun usually falls on February 3, 4, or 5. For 1968, Lichun occurred on February 5. This means that people born between January 30 and February 4, 1968, are technically Monkeys according to the lunar New Year, but in BaZi astrology, their year pillar is still the previous year. If you were born near this boundary, it is best to use a BaZi calculator with your exact birth date and time to determine your accurate zodiac sign.
The Earth Element
The Earth element in the 1968 Chinese zodiac comes from the Heavenly Stem Wu. This is a Yang Earth energy, which represents stability, nourishment, and reliability. The Monkey's innate fixed element is Metal, so the Earth Monkey combines Earth and Metal energies. In the Five Elements cycle, Earth generates Metal, which means the Earth element supports and strengthens the Monkey's natural Metal foundation. This creates a harmonious flow of energy, making the Earth Monkey more grounded and practical than other Monkey types.
Earth Monkey Personality Traits
People born in the 1968 Chinese zodiac are known for their sharp intelligence, quick wit, and remarkable adaptability. The Monkey is the ninth animal in the zodiac cycle and is considered the most clever of all the signs. When combined with the Earth element, these traits become more stable and reliable. Earth Monkeys are not just smart — they are also practical, organized, and capable of turning their ideas into reality.
Key Strengths
- Intelligent and quick-thinking: Earth Monkeys have a natural ability to solve problems and think on their feet. They are curious and love learning new things.
- Practical and grounded: Unlike other Monkey types, the Earth Monkey is more down-to-earth. They think carefully before acting and prefer long-term stability over short-term excitement.
- Reliable and responsible: People born in 1968 take their duties seriously. They are dependable friends, partners, and colleagues who can be counted on in times of need.
- Sociable and charming: Earth Monkeys are excellent communicators. They know how to connect with others and are often the life of the party.
- Hardworking and ambitious: They are willing to put in the effort to achieve their goals. Their steady work ethic often leads to gradual but lasting success.
Key Weaknesses
- Stubbornness: Once an Earth Monkey makes up their mind, it can be difficult to change it. They may resist advice or alternative viewpoints.
- Restlessness: Despite their grounded nature, Earth Monkeys can still become bored with routine. They need variety and mental stimulation to stay engaged.
- Emotional volatility: Under stress, their mood can shift quickly. They may become impatient or irritable.
- Over-responsibility: They sometimes take on too much, trying to handle everything themselves. This can lead to burnout and mental strain.
Men Born in 1968
Men born in the Year of the Earth Monkey are often cheerful, humorous, and curious. They have a love for exploration and are decisive in their careers. However, they can be stubborn and may cling to their own opinions, which can sometimes make them appear immature. In relationships, they are kind and dedicated, though they may need to work on being more open to feedback.
Women Born in 1968
Women of the 1968 Earth Monkey are independent, resolute, and opinionated. They live by strong principles and are introspective by nature. They may appear reserved or hard to understand at first, but they are sincere and compassionate. They make reliable emotional anchors for their loved ones and are often the steady force in their families.
Love and Relationship Compatibility
In Chinese astrology, zodiac compatibility is determined by the Earthly Branch, not the Heavenly Stem. This means that the Monkey's compatibility with other signs is based on the animal sign itself, not the element. However, the Earth element does influence how the Monkey behaves in relationships, making them more stable and committed over time.
Best Matches
The Monkey is most compatible with three signs: the Snake, the Rat, and the Dragon. These pairings create natural harmony and mutual understanding.
- Snake (Liu He — Secret Friend): The Snake is considered the Monkey's best match. The Monkey brings energy and social skill, while the Snake offers wisdom, focus, and emotional depth. Together, they create a deep, intuitive bond.
- Rat (San He — Zodiac Trio): The Rat and Monkey share intelligence, adaptability, and a love for adventure. They work well together toward shared goals and enjoy each other's company.
- Dragon (San He — Zodiac Trio): The Dragon and Monkey are both ambitious and dynamic. Their partnership is full of energy and optimism, and they can achieve great things together.
Challenging Matches
Some pairings may require more effort and understanding.
- Tiger (Liu Chong — Direct Clash): The Tiger sits directly opposite the Monkey on the zodiac wheel. Both signs are strong-willed and may compete for control. This can create tension, but it also offers opportunities for growth if both partners are willing to compromise.
- Pig: The Pig and Monkey can have difficulty understanding each other. Their different approaches to life may lead to misunderstandings and frustration.
Marriage and Long-Term Relationships
Earth Monkeys are passionate and expressive in love. They enjoy connection, communication, and companionship. In their younger years, they may be impatient or restless in relationships. However, as they mature, they become more reliable and committed. In marriage, they show strong responsibility and care deeply for their family. Their directness can sometimes cause tension, but with age, they learn to be more supportive and understanding partners.
Career, Finance, and Life Path
The 1968 Chinese zodiac suggests a life path where success builds gradually. Earth Monkeys may not achieve everything immediately, but they tend to gain recognition and stability through persistence and hard work.
Career Development
- Early life: Frequent exploration and experimentation. They may change jobs or fields several times before finding their true calling.
- Middle age: Strong growth and better career direction. They often take on leadership roles and gain authority in their chosen field.
- Later years: Advisory, mentoring, or consulting roles become more likely. Their experience and wisdom are valued by others.
Best Career Choices
Earth Monkeys excel in careers that reward intelligence, creativity, and communication. They thrive in fast-paced, stimulating environments. Recommended professions include:
- Business and management
- Sales, communication, and networking
- Planning, strategy, and analysis
- Entrepreneurship and independent work
- Engineering, programming, and technology
- Law, journalism, and media
Financial Outlook
The financial life of an Earth Monkey usually improves with age. Early years may be uneven, but long-term income tends to become more stable as their judgment matures. They can do well with investments, but they should avoid impulsive decisions or taking unnecessary risks when emotionally excited. Patience and careful planning are their best financial tools.
Feng Shui Lucky Elements for 1968 Earth Monkey
Feng Shui offers practical ways to enhance positive energy and attract good fortune. For those born in the 1968 Chinese zodiac, certain colors, numbers, directions, and items are considered especially lucky.
Lucky Colors
- Earth element colors: Brown, dark yellow, beige. These colors promote stability and strengthen financial foundations.
- Fire element colors: Red, orange, pink, purple. Fire generates Earth in the Five Elements cycle, so these colors boost confidence and attract luck.
- Metal element colors: White, gold, silver. These support the Monkey's innate Metal element.
Colors to Avoid
- Water element colors: Blue, black. Water controls Earth and may reduce positive energy.
- Wood element colors: Green, lime green. Wood depletes Earth and can drain energy.
Lucky Numbers
- Men born in 1968: 2, 5, 8. Number 5 symbolizes balance, while 2 and 8 represent wealth and prosperity.
- Women born in 1968: 1, 6, 7. Number 1 signifies new beginnings, while 6 and 7 support relationships and career.
Lucky Directions
- Men (West Group): Northeast (education), Southwest (relationships), Northwest (health), West (wealth).
- Women (East Group): South (noble support), Southeast (health), East (career), North (relationships).
Lucky Gemstone
Peridot is considered a lucky gemstone for the Earth Monkey. It is associated with prosperity, protection, and emotional balance.
Feng Shui Plants and Items
Recommended Feng Shui items for the 1968 Earth Monkey include money trees, lucky bamboo, and snake plants. These plants attract positive energy and promote growth. Placing them in the southeast corner of the home or office is especially beneficial for wealth and abundance.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1968 Chinese Zodiac
What is my Chinese zodiac if I was born in 1968?
If you were born between January 30, 1968, and February 16, 1969, your Chinese zodiac sign is the Monkey. However, if you were born before January 30, 1968, your sign is actually the Goat (Sheep). For those born near the boundary, it is best to use a BaZi calculator with your exact birth date to determine your correct sign.
What element is associated with the 1968 zodiac?
The 1968 Chinese zodiac is associated with the Earth element. This makes people born in 1968 Earth Monkeys. The Earth element comes from the Heavenly Stem Wu (戊), which is a Yang Earth energy.
When does the 1968 zodiac year start?
In the traditional Chinese calendar, the 1968 zodiac year starts on January 30, 1968 (Chinese New Year). In the BaZi system, it starts at Lichun, the Start of Spring, which fell on February 5, 1968.
Who is the 1968 Monkey most compatible with?
The Earth Monkey is most compatible with the Snake, Rat, and Dragon. These signs form harmonious relationships based on mutual understanding and shared goals. The Snake is considered the best match, followed by the Rat and Dragon.
What are the lucky colors for 1968 Earth Monkey?
The lucky colors for the 1968 Earth Monkey are brown, dark yellow, red, orange, pink, purple, white, gold, and silver. These colors support the Earth and Metal elements and attract positive energy.
Further exploration: If you were born in 1968, understanding your Chinese zodiac sign is just the beginning. The Earth Monkey is a complex and fascinating sign with many layers. By exploring your BaZi chart, you can gain even deeper insights into your personality, destiny, and life path. The 1968 Chinese zodiac offers a rich framework for self-discovery and personal growth.
For entertainment purposes only. The content on this page is based on interpretive traditions and should not be considered professional advice. Outcomes are not guaranteed. Always consult a qualified professional for medical, legal, or financial matters.