To convince their peers why they deserved to be at the top of the zodiac chart, each animal in China gave an account of its merit.
The Bull said it helped the farmer to plow the fields.
The Tiger said it was strong and powerful.
The Rabbit said it was the famous Jade Rabbit of Chang Er.
The Dragon said it symbolized Kingship and Royal Descendants.
The Snake said it was smart.
The Horse said it could travel thousands of miles.
The Lamb said it provided wool for clothing.
The Monkey said monkey-see-monkey-do, and it could do whatever humans could.
The Rooster said its calling woke up the farmer in the morning.
The Dog said it was the best friend of humans, and it protected them.
The Pig said its meat tasted good.
When it came to the Rat, it merely said, ‘I am the king of the jungle!’
Everyone laughed, but the Rat continued, ‘Who do you think was the king of the jungle?’
When all the animals agreed that the Elephant was, the Rat swiftly ran into the Elephant’s ear canal and brought it to its knees. After this, all animals decided that the Rat should make it at the top of the chart.
