In Bhutan and across the Himalayan Buddhist world, time is seen as more than just a sequence of hours and days - it’s a rhythm of spiritual energies. The Bhutanese calendar is deeply connected with astrology, and every person is believed to be born under one of the twelve Buddhist zodiac signs. These signs - Mouse, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Bird, Dog, and Pig - carry distinct characteristics and destinies.
Every day is also ruled by specific cosmic forces that interact differently with each Bhutanese zodiac sign. Understanding these relationships helps people choose the right days for important activities and avoid misfortune. Travelers who wish to experience Bhutan’s spirituality more deeply can learn about this practice and the things to avoid based on their Buddhist Tibetan zodiac sign.
Those joining Bhutan tours often encounter this fascinating aspect of Bhutanese culture firsthand. Whether visiting sacred monasteries, meeting local astrologers, or attending traditional festivals, travelers gain insight into how astrology shapes daily life and decision-making in Bhutan. Exploring this spiritual wisdom adds a profound layer of meaning to every Bhutan journey, turning a simple trip into a deeper cultural and spiritual discovery.
Meaning of “Za” - The Spiritual Importance of Days in Bhutan
In Bhutanese and Tibetan astrology, the concept of “Za” refers to the spiritual nature or energy of a particular day. It is believed that the universe operates in cyclical patterns of harmony and conflict, and Za determines whether the day aligns positively or negatively with an individual’s Buddhist zodiac sign.
Each person’s Za is influenced by their birth year and corresponding Buddhist zodiac signs, which are closely related to the traditional Chinese zodiac but with a uniquely Buddhist interpretation. Bhutanese astrologers, often trained in monastic institutions, use ancient texts to calculate auspicious and inauspicious days. These readings help people decide when to travel, marry, begin new ventures, or make offerings.
For Bhutanese families, these predictions are more than superstition - they are acts of faith and mindfulness. Following one’s Za means living in harmony with the natural and spiritual worlds. It reminds people that every action, even something as small as cutting a tree or planning a trip, carries karmic consequences.
The Three Auspicious and Inauspicious Days: La Za, Sog Za, and Shey Za
Within the system of Za, three days stand out as particularly significant - La Za, Sog Za, and Shey Za. Each has its own meaning and spiritual implication in the context of the Buddhist zodiac signs.
La Za (Life Day)
La Za is considered a “Life Day,” a time when your personal energy aligns harmoniously with the universe. It is a favorable day for undertaking important tasks - traveling, signing contracts, making offerings, or starting new projects. Bhutanese believe that activities done on La Za bring good fortune and spiritual balance.
Sog Za (Soul Day)
Sog Za, or “Soul Day,” is a sacred time for self-care and spiritual connection. It is often used for meditation, prayer, or making offerings to protect one’s soul from negative influences. Bhutanese monks perform special rituals on Sog Za to strengthen spiritual vitality. It’s a day to nourish the inner self and avoid unnecessary stress or conflict.
Shey Za (Bad Day)
Shey Za is considered an inauspicious day, when cosmic energies clash with one’s Buddhist Tibetan zodiac sign. On this day, Bhutanese people avoid major activities such as traveling long distances, starting new businesses, or engaging in risky ventures. Even small tasks like cutting hair or planting seeds are often postponed. The idea is not fear, but mindfulness - acknowledging that certain days are better suited for rest and reflection.
Things to Avoid on Each Day of the Twelve Buddhist Zodiac Signs
According to Bhutanese astrology, each of the twelve Buddhist zodiac signs has specific days when certain actions should be avoided. These days are believed to affect not just one’s luck but also health, relationships, and spiritual well-being.
Mouse (Rat)
People born under the Mouse sign should avoid traveling westward or beginning construction on their Shey Za. They are advised to refrain from making financial commitments or cutting trees, as these actions may bring instability.
Ox
For those born in the year of the Ox, it’s wise to avoid conflicts and legal matters on their bad day. Spending time quietly or visiting temples is recommended instead.
Tiger
Tigers, known for their boldness, should avoid making impulsive decisions on their Shey Za. Major purchases, signing contracts, or long journeys are best postponed.
Rabbit
Rabbits are sensitive to lunar energy. On inauspicious days, they should avoid visiting sick people or attending funerals, as these may disturb their emotional balance.
Dragon
People of the Dragon sign should not start new ventures or dig the earth on their bad days. Instead, they should focus on creative or spiritual activities, as these align better with the energy of their Buddhist zodiac sign.
Snake
Those under the Snake sign are cautioned against traveling to high places or beginning new relationships during their Shey Za. Meditation and introspection are favorable.
Horse
Horses, being dynamic and adventurous, should resist overexertion or excessive socializing on their bad day. Avoiding risky sports or business decisions helps maintain balance and harmony according to the Buddhist Tibetan zodiac sign readings.
Sheep (Goat)
For Sheep individuals, Shey Za is a time to stay close to home. They should avoid lending money or engaging in arguments. Gentle activities like prayer or offering butter lamps are ideal.
Monkey
Monkeys should avoid gossip or speaking harshly on their inauspicious days. Words carry great power in Buddhist belief, and negative speech can bring karmic consequences.
Bird (Rooster)
People born under the Bird sign are advised not to make long journeys or commit to new ventures on Shey Za. It’s a day better spent reflecting and planning carefully.
Dog
Dogs, known for loyalty, should avoid visiting sacred sites or performing rituals on their bad day. Instead, they can engage in acts of compassion, like helping others or feeding animals.
Pig
Those of the Pig sign should not make major decisions or consume alcohol on Shey Za. It’s a time to cleanse the mind and body through rest or fasting.
Practical Insights for Travelers and Practitioners
For travelers interested in Bhutan Religion, understanding the Buddhist zodiac signs and their corresponding auspicious and inauspicious days offers a deeper appreciation of local customs. When visiting monasteries or participating in festivals, you may notice locals consulting astrologers or performing rituals to harmonize with their La Za or Sog Za.
If you plan to visit Bhutan, it can be a meaningful experience to ask a local astrologer about your Buddhist Tibetan zodiac sign. Many monasteries, such as the Pangrizampa Astrology School in Thimphu, offer insights into one’s life path based on ancient calculations. These readings not only guide Bhutanese daily life but also reflect the nation’s profound connection to Buddhist cosmology.
The La Za, Sog Za and Shey Za for the Zodiac Signs
| Sign | La Za (Good Day) | Sog Za (Good Day) | Shey Za (Bad Day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mouse | Tuesday | Monday | Friday |
| Ox | Friday | Tuesday | Wednesday |
| Tiger | Wednesday | Friday | Thursday |
| Rabbit | Wednesday | Friday | Thursday |
| Dragon | Saturday | Tuesday | Wednesday |
| Snake | Monday | Thursday | Tuesday |
| Horse | Monday | Thursday | Tuesday |
| Sheep | Thursday | Sunday | Wednesday |
| Monkey | Thursday | Wednesday | Monday |
| Rooster | Thursday | Wednesday | Monday |
| Dog | Sunday | Tuesday | Wednesday |
| Pig | Tuesday | Monday | Friday |
