THE RAT SIGN IN 2026— A Year of Change

Years of the Rat:1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, and 2020 and the next is 2032*

The central idea is CHANGE. Almanacs published a few decades ago by old masters of feng shui would place the emphasis on the negative side of clashing with the Grand Duke (Tai Sui), that is, on the fact that the sign of the Rat and the sign of the year 2026 occupy opposite points of the zodiac wheel. This is probably the most disruptive configuration of all in the relationship between two signs.

However, contemporary almanacs (and masters) tend to adopt a more creative and proactive view of this type of configuration, which in the past was regarded as ‘negative’.

When there is a confrontation of ‘energies’ around us and within our lives, that confrontation tends to test the solidity of the foundations on which the various aspects of our lives rest. It is something akin to an earthquake generated by the movement of tectonic plates, which first affects the least solid structures.

This is the challenge posed by this clash between the sign of the Rat and the sign of the year 2026, the Horse. According to Chinese almanacs, a climate of change is practically guaranteed. Since such changes tend to take us out of our comfort zones, we often receive (unwanted or unexpected) change in a negative way.

Nevertheless, it is important to remain attentive to the possible opportunities that lie hidden behind crises. These can serve to free us from what no longer makes sense and allow us to find new paths more in tune with our current stage in life.

On the other hand, there is some consensus among almanacs and masters that in 2026 the professional sphere will tend to be the most protected area for those born in the year of the Rat. Yes, there will probably be changes, but they will tend to be positive as far as career matters are concerned.

Finally, one must take into account the symbolism associated with the sign of the Rat. As I wrote in a book published in the 2000s (based on a compilation of Chinese sources), “those born in the year of the Rat are natural survivors, much like the rodents that symbolise them”. Their intuition is very strong and reliably warns them when danger is approaching. As a result, they do not allow themselves to be cornered easily, and their ability to overcome difficulties and find solutions to problems is proverbial.

It is also necessary to consider the elements involved in this ‘clash’ between signs. While the Horse has Fire as its dominant element, the Rat is governed by Water. In the interaction between the Chinese elements, Water tends to control Fire, which clearly works in the Rat’s favour.

*Those born in these years after February 6, are born under the Rat sign. If you were born beforehand, check www.thelifepillars.com to find out what's your sign and more.