II: The Chinese zodiac.

There's an old Chinese legend in which Buddha invites all the animals of his kingdom to appear for him. On that particular day of the Chinese newyear only twelve animals showed up. The first one entering was; The Rat followed by the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Cock, Dog and finally the Pig. To show his graditude Buddha decided to name a year after each of the animals and people who are born in one of these years would inherit some of their characteristics.