The Chinese Tradition of Tai Sui and Its Significance in 2025

The Chinese Tai Sui (太岁), also known as the Grand Duke Jupiter, is a deity deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture, astrology, and folk beliefs. It is believed that Tai Sui governs the energies of the year, influencing both good fortune and challenges for individuals based on their zodiac signs. 

The concept of Tai Sui originates from ancient Chinese astronomy and mythology. While it loosely relates to the orbit of the planet Jupiter (木星), the tradition assigns specific deities—called Tai Sui Gods—to rule each year in a 60-year cycle based on the Chinese sexagenary (heavenly stems and earthly branches) system. These deities are believed to oversee the energies of the year, influencing the lives of people, nature, and society.

The practice of worshiping Tai Sui dates back to the Han Dynasty (202 BCE–220 CE). People prayed to these deities for protection, blessings, and to ward off bad luck, particularly if their zodiac sign clashed with the Tai Sui of the year. This ritual is still widely observed, especially in temples dedicated to Tai Sui, such as the Wong Tai Sin Temple in Hong Kong.

The Chinese Zodiac Chart by Age Group for 2025 (Year of the Wood Snake)

The Lunar New Year of 2025 will begin on January 29, 2025, marking the start of the Yi Si (乙巳) Year of the Wood Snake. The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, with each year associated with a specific animal. Here’s a breakdown of the zodiac signs for individuals based on their birth years:

How Many Tai Sui Are There and Their Names?

There are 60 Tai Sui in total, each assigned to a year in the 60-year cycle. 

Every Tai Sui has a unique name, personality, and historical background, often tied to real historical figures who were posthumously deified for their virtues or deeds.

The 60 Tai Sui include figures such as:

Yang Xin (杨信)
Lu Mi (卢秘)
Xie Tai (谢太)
Zhao Xin (赵信)

In 2025, the reigning Tai Sui is General Zheng Xin (郑信). He will govern the energies of the Yi Si year (乙巳), which corresponds to the Year of the Wood Snake.

Lucky and Unlucky Animal Zodiacs in 2025

The energy of 2025, the Year of the Wood Snake, will bring varying fortunes for the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. Here’s a breakdown of which signs will fare well and which may face challenges due to clashes or alignments with the Tai Sui.

Lucky Zodiac Signs in 2025:

Snake (巳): This is the ben ming nian (本命年), meaning Snake-born individuals are aligned with the year’s energy. However, they should still take precautions, as the ben ming nian can bring instability alongside opportunities.

Rooster (酉): The Rooster is in harmony with the Snake, bringing luck in career and relationships.

Ox (丑): The Ox will enjoy stability and opportunities for growth, especially in financial matters.

Unlucky Zodiac Signs in 2025:

Pig (亥): The Pig directly clashes with the Snake, making it the most vulnerable sign to misfortunes.

Monkey (申): The Monkey faces minor challenges due to a less favorable relationship with the Snake.

Tiger (寅): The Tiger may encounter obstacles, particularly in interpersonal relationships and finances.

What Should Unlucky Signs Avoid?

For those whose signs clash with the Tai Sui, observing specific rituals and avoiding certain actions can help reduce misfortune:

1. Avoid Major Life Changes
Postpone weddings, house moves, or career shifts if possible. Such events may attract instability during a clash with Tai Sui.

2. Visit a Tai Sui Temple
Perform a Tai Sui blessing ceremony (安太岁). This involves offerings and prayers to seek protection and smooth energy flow throughout the year.

3. Carry Protective Talismans
Wear a talisman or charm featuring the zodiac sign that harmonizes with the Snake (such as the Rooster or Ox). These items are believed to counterbalance the negative energy of a clash.

4. Avoid Confrontations
Steer clear of unnecessary arguments or legal disputes, as these could escalate easily during a Tai Sui clash year.

5. Be Mindful of Travel Directions
The Tai Sui is associated with a specific direction each year. In 2025, avoid traveling extensively to the southeast, where the Tai Sui energy resides.


Tips for a Lucky New Year

Even if your zodiac sign isn’t particularly lucky in 2025, there are general practices everyone can follow to invite good fortune:

Spring Cleaning: Clear your space before Lunar New Year to remove stagnant energy and make room for prosperity.

Red Decorations: Use red lanterns, couplets, or clothing to attract positive energy and ward off negativity.

Generosity: Give to charity or help others. Acts of kindness generate good karma and amplify abundance.


The Tai Sui tradition reflects the deep connection between spirituality and daily life in Chinese culture. Whether you’re celebrating good fortune or seeking ways to mitigate misfortune, honoring the Tai Sui and understanding its influence can provide clarity and guidance. 

In 2025, as General Zheng Xin oversees the Year of the Wood Snake, take proactive steps to align with the year’s energy and make it one of prosperity and harmony.

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