Why the Dragon, which does not exist, is included in the 12 Zodiac animals

The inclusion of the dragon in the 12 Chinese zodiac animals, despite being a mythical creature, can be explored from various cultural and philosophical perspectives, including the Yijing (or I Ching), an ancient Chinese divination text and one of the oldest of the Chinese classics.

The Yijing, or "Book of Changes," is rooted in the concept of Yin and Yang, and the idea that everything in the universe is in a state of constant change. This philosophy is reflected in the Yijing through 64 hexagrams, which are symbols used to interpret the universe's workings and provide guidance.

From the Yijing's perspective, the dragon can be seen as a symbol of transformation, power, and auspiciousness. In Chinese culture, the dragon is often associated with strength, good luck, and imperial authority. Its inclusion in the zodiac can be interpreted as representing these qualities and the dynamic, ever-changing nature of the universe as understood in the Yijing.

The dragon's mythical status also sets it apart from the other, real animals in the zodiac, highlighting its unique and powerful symbolism. It's a creature that transcends the ordinary, embodying the extraordinary and mystical aspects of the universe, which aligns well with the Yijing's themes of change, potential, and the unseen forces shaping our world.

In summary, from the Yijing's perspective, the dragon's inclusion in the 12 Chinese zodiac animals may symbolize the importance of acknowledging both the visible (the real animals) and the invisible or mystical (the dragon) forces at play in the universe, and the constant transformation and change that is a core principle of this ancient philosophy.

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