2016: The Symbolism of the Image

The Fire Monkey is a powerful and sacred image, and if we are talking about a temporary stage that has an unusual esoteric sign, it is important to understand the law of its formation and development, which, in particular, we can learn from of the system of The Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, the original Zi Wei Dou Shu. Roughly speaking, it is the ancient Chinese astrological system. In this case, it is appropriate to emphasize the word roughly, since it is difficult to use any modern language in the description of Zi Wei Dou Shu, because modern languages simply do not contain many of the concepts that were used in Ancient China to create this system. However, according to The Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, 2016, the year of the Fire Monkey, is defined as Shen, the ninth cycle in the system's ascending duodecimal structure. Initially, the monkey here corresponds with the element of metal, which is figuratively the anthropogenic factor. But in our particular case (2016), we are talking about the element of Fire, which at this time is a dominant element. So in the end we get a slightly different image: the Fire Monkey. The symbolism of this image will now be considered.

The monkey in the Eastern tradition is known as an experimenter, a universal creative impulse, characterized by constant movement from point A to point B. It does not matter how great the distance between these points, the effort put forth, or the means to move. This is exactly the type of situation in which the process is much more important than the result. The monkey suggests that the most important value acquired in this process of movement is experience, which later allows one to move to the following stages. It is the experience, not the result, that the monkey values most. That is why people born in the Year of the Monkey are rather eccentric, yet consistent. They are able to work, but they can give up without seeing things through to the end. Sometimes the monkey can be reckless, but it is often another's fault, depending on the circumstances. Because the life of the monkey (an image of a highly developed being) is not simple, but it is logical, because the greater the power, the higher the level of understanding, and the greater the responsibility. That is why the monkey points us to complex progress, combining physical, spiritual, emotional, and esoteric progress.

We now turn to the element of fire, because this will be the dominant element throughout 2016. Fire is dynamic, but it must be understood that others, such as water, are also dynamic, but they are fundamentally different. Whereas water is malleable and changeable, adapting to circumstances and acting methodically, fire is impulsive and frantic; it does not rely on a plan B, but rather a single rapier in which it invests all its might. That's why the dynamic of fire can be perceived as a sinewave. In other words, its periods of intense activity are interspersed with periods of absolute rest. Indeed, each burst, be it physical or emotional, is followed by a period in which fire accumulates it forces. Strictly speaking, it is not right to assume that the time in which fire rests is a period of stagnation; rather, it is the inner silence that allows you to organize your thoughts, analyze the past, and plan the future. In other words, the element of fire teaches us adaptability; it is the apotheosis of human flexibility, and a careful balance between action and reflection. This is the intelligence that is determined by feelings, and at the same time, emotions that the mind controls.

Together, the element of fire and the image of the monkey suggest a temporary stage which, at first glance, will be characterized by a high level of ambiguity and inconsistency for most. But, as the Eastern sages said, ignorance of the law is no excuse! Of course, this stage also has its own laws, being aware of which will help you to achieve the desired results. The main thing is to remember that the monkey does not recognize the principle of laziness. Rest and relaxation, according to the monkey, are required only when necessary! When your resources are drained, when you yourself are exhausted, that is when relaxation is needed and it ultimately helps you to move forward. If, by nature, you are lazy, sedentary, lack interests, and have no aspirations, then without a doubt 2016 will be a living hell for you. It is difficult to say which option would be better; to try to change yourself, or dig yourself deeper and burrow in and wait until the storm passes. In reality, this question cannot have two identical answers, which is logical because we are all individuals and the monkey will direct each of us towards this thought.

We should also say that the image of the Fire Monkey tends to be the basis of factual and objective perception. In other words, in 2016, you need to filter your emotions. Of course, you can't act on emotion, but you can turn to your emotions, according to the monkey. You need your mind to control your emotions, not the other way around. The element of fire, in turn, suggests that even family relationships that have existed for years can be passionate, bright, and romantic. A lot depends on our attitudes and stereotypes, and from the inertia of our thinking. The Fire Monkey offers for us, at least for a moment, to break the mold. All of this will not necessarily apply to you, but you will gain the experience that you need to go above the bar, which would otherwise be your limit. This also applies to professional growth. As already mentioned, the Fire Monkey will remorselessly meddle in all spheres of our lives. Roughly speaking, it is not necessary to confront all the circumstances that are obviously stronger than you. After all, you can make things go your way, and if they don't it means that you didn't try hard enough.