The key element is the race. It was the main event that decided the order. Also, the different animals' characteristics play a role. For instance, the Rat's cleverness was crucial in it becoming the first.
Well, the story of the Chinese New Year animal order is really interesting. In this story, all the animals were invited to take part in a grand race. The Rat managed to be the first in a rather cunning way. It rode on the Ox and then jumped in front at the last moment. After the Rat, comes the Ox which is known for its hard - working nature. Then there's the Tiger, representing power and courage. And so on, each animal in the order has symbolic meanings in Chinese culture.
In Chinese New Year 2016, it was the Year of the Monkey. The monkey is often seen as clever and mischievous in Chinese culture. It represents intelligence and agility. There are many stories about monkeys in Chinese mythology, like the Monkey King in 'Journey to the West' who was extremely intelligent and had great powers.
The key element is the monster Nian. It's the central figure in the story as it was the threat that led to the formation of many Chinese New Year traditions.
The key point is the race itself. 12 animals took part. The rat's trickery to win is important. It rode on the ox and then jumped ahead at the last moment.
The key elements are the twelve animals. They are the main characters in the race.
Red is a key element. Nian is afraid of red, so red decorations like red lanterns and red paper cuttings are important. Also, firecrackers. The loud noise of firecrackers scares Nian away.
One key element is the family gathering. It's a time when families get together no matter how far apart they are. Another is the red color everywhere, from red lanterns to red couplets. And of course, the special food like dumplings.
The Chinese New Year is associated with a 12 - year cycle of animals. Legend has it that the Jade Emperor decided to hold a race to select the animals for the cycle. The rat was clever and hitched a ride on the ox's back and jumped off at the last moment to win first place. Then came the ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig in order according to the story.
Well, in 2015 which was the year of the Goat in Chinese New Year. There's a story that the Goat is associated with prosperity in a way. Since goats can graze on the mountainsides and still be healthy, it symbolizes the ability to thrive in tough conditions. In some rural areas, when a family has a lot of goats, it was considered a sign of a well - off family. Also, in certain fables, the goat's horns were thought to have magical powers to ward off evil spirits.
There are several crucial elements in the Nian Monster Chinese New Year story. First, there is the Nian monster, a terrifying entity that used to pose a great danger. Then there is the color red. Red has a powerful significance as it was found to be a deterrent to the Nian monster. Fire is another element. Firecrackers, which produce both fire and loud noises, are used to frighten the Nian away. The villagers' discovery of these elements and their subsequent use to protect themselves is what led to these becoming important parts of Chinese New Year. Today, we still see these elements in the form of red decorations, firework displays, and the general festive atmosphere during the Chinese New Year.