The Tarot of Eli 2, LLC: The Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot- Nine of Wands & The Tarot of Sacred Kingdoms-9 of Wands

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The Rider-Waite-Smith nine of Wands, depicts an injured man leaning on a leafy (fertile) staff/Wand as if awaiting further attacks from some enemy. Around him (or her) are the other eight wands/staffs formed in a palisade of protection. All this imagery signifies strength in opposition, for although injured, when attacked this one will meet the attack with force. Along with this primary meaning, there are also the possible adjuncts that come with it, including delay, suspension, and adjournment.

The Rider-Waite-Smith 9 of Wands and the Tarot of Sacred Kingdoms 9 of Wands can be called STRENGTH as both cards display a surprising amount of strength, in a surprising way. On the RWS card a wounded warrior is standing his ground, with a defensive wall of 8 wands behind him and holding onto a sturdy wand in defense. The Magus on the Tarot of Sacred Kingdoms card is purposely striding forward, with staff a flame, a look of aggression radiating from his eyes.

Fire is Ardor; therefore, every card of this suit is about "sexual strength" and vigilant Passion.

• Vigilance. 
• Defense.
• Limit. 
• Attention. 

9 of Wands card in many decks, also assigns the astrological meaning of the Moon in Sagittarius which means the need to feel free and unencumbered when dealing with changes. Therefore, the phallus is free and unencumbered in this illustration as phallic headed and fertile wands. Which again, means to express your passion and ardor with presence. Plus, the true strength is when the Anima -the Feminine Muse (Moon), and the Animus (Sun), the male rationale, work together in one united front.

The Moon in Sagittarius in astrology is believed to influence emotional tendencies and behaviors in alignment with the traits associated with the Sagittarius zodiac sign. Here are some characteristics of the Moon in the house of Sagittarius:

1. Optimistic Emotions: Individuals with the Moon in Sagittarius often have an optimistic and positive approach to their emotions. They tend to see the brighter side of life and are generally cheerful.

2. Adventurous Nature: Emotional fulfillment for these individuals often comes through exploration and adventure. They may seek excitement and new experiences to satisfy their emotional needs.

3. Freedom-Loving: Moon in Sagittarius individuals value their freedom and independence in emotional matters. They may feel constrained by too much routine or restrictions, preferring a more open and flexible approach.

4. Philosophical Reflection: Emotional responses are often influenced by a philosophical perspective. These individuals may reflect on their feelings, seeking deeper meanings and understanding the emotional aspects of life.

5. Direct Communication: They tend to express their emotions openly and directly. Honest communication is important to them, and they may find it challenging to navigate around indirect or subtle expressions of feelings.

6. Generosity and Empathy: Moon in Sagittarius individuals are generally generous and empathetic. They may feel emotionally fulfilled when helping others or engaging in acts of kindness.

7. Restless Energy: There can be a sense of restlessness in their emotional nature, leading them to seek variety and change. Routine may feel confining, and they may need constant mental and emotional stimulation.

It's important to note that the complete astrological profile involves considering the positions of other planets, the Ascendant, and more. Individual birth charts provide a more detailed and accurate analysis of an individual's personality and emotional tendencies.

Also, this card suggests that one must control one's interests, if not there will be extremely dangerous instability. What is of paramount importance is to remember that even the most seemingly "balanced" individuals have within them primitive subconscious feelings which may erupt to the surface without warning. By not denying that such feelings exist in the "survival mind" of the subconscious, one becomes best equipped to function in a world of "masks" and illusions.

All this sleight of hand shows us that we are viewing the Universe from an upside-down perspective, a reflected image rather than the Original Image. We think we are people trying to become more spiritual. However, Universal Divine Creative is condensing its Self-Aware data into your image. Hence, the Universal Spirit is making itself more "physical" (condensed) and is not "seeking to be more spiritual" as intimacy with creation is the goal of Spirit.

Here the strength of your manifestation is realized, when your meditations raise you to the level of Tiphareth (You Solar Self/Soul) and you find out that you are the one being meditated into existence. Therefore, the Truth of Strength is revealed in "Above all things, Know thyself". "I AM Spirit, seeking intimacy with all creation"'; Hence, "enfleshenment" is the true understanding of the Hero's journey of Self-Awareness. Intimacy requires sensuality and that is what the body gives "Spirit"; However, in the body's subconscious is a deep fear of its own death and is often suffering from a "mind virus" that encourages self-destruction. Of this, the spirit must be aware, and not suppress it, but acknowledge it and adopt the subconscious with the love of wisdom and understanding and the Truth of Transformation. Unless we are in control of mind and body, our spirit will not be present in this world, nor will it be whole. This lack of spiritual presence is shown in lack of Will power over the mind and body.

The Tarot of Sacred Kingdoms shows a magus/magician striding forward in determination, resilience. and perseverance. Here one is cautioned not to second guess themselves and walk forward with determination, dedication, and conviction.

In gematria, the number 9 holds significant symbolic and mystical meanings. Gematria is an alphanumeric code where each letter of the Hebrew alphabet corresponds to a numerical value. This system is used in Kabbalistic/Qabalistic studies to uncover deeper meanings in words, phrases, and texts. Here are some key characteristics and interpretations of the number 9 in gematria:

1. Completion and Fulfillment:

   • The number 9 is often associated with completion and fulfillment. In the decimal system, it is the last single-digit number, symbolizing the end of a cycle. This completion is seen as a prelude to a new beginning, a concept deeply rooted in mystical traditions.

2. Truth and Light:

   • The Hebrew word "אמת" (Emet), meaning "truth," has a gematria value of 9 (Aleph = 1, Mem = 40, Tav = 400; 1 + 40 + 400 = 441; 4 + 4 + 1 = 9). Truth is seen as an eternal and unchanging principle, and the number 9 symbolizes this constancy and clarity.

3. Spiritual Enlightenment:

   • The number 9 is linked to spiritual enlightenment and the pursuit of higher knowledge. It represents the culmination of spiritual development and the attainment of wisdom. This is evident in various mystical traditions where the number 9 is associated with the highest levels of spiritual achievement.

4. Universal Influence:

   • In Kabbalah/Qabalah, the number 9 is connected to the concept of universal influence. It represents the forces that shape and govern the universe. This is illustrated in the Sephiroth, particularly Yesod (Foundation), which is the 9th Sephira on the Tree of Life. Yesod acts as a channel through which divine energy flows into the physical world, bridging the spiritual and material realms.

5. Multiples of Nine:

   • An interesting property of the number 9 is that any number multiplied by 9, when its digits are summed, reduces back to 9. For example, 9 × 3 = 27 (2 + 7 = 9), 9 × 4 = 36 (3 + 6 = 9). This characteristic reinforces the idea of 9 as a symbol of completeness and return.

6. Humanitarianism and Service:

   • In numerology, the number 9 is often associated with humanitarianism, compassion, and selflessness. It is seen as a number that embodies the ideals of service to others and the betterment of humanity. This aligns with the Qabalistic view of 9 as a number of spiritual fulfillment and universal influence.

7. The Tetragrammaton (YHVH):

   • The four letters of the Tetragrammaton (יהוה) correspond to numerical values: Yod (10), He (5), Vav (6), He (5). Adding these values (10 + 5 + 6 + 5) gives 26, which further reduces to 2 + 6 = 8, and 8 + 1 = 9. This connection to the divine name underscores the spiritual significance of the number 9.

In summary, the number 9 in gematria is a powerful symbol representing completion, truth, spiritual enlightenment, and universal influence. Its unique mathematical properties and associations with key Kabbalistic concepts underscore its importance in mystical and esoteric traditions.

You may find it confusing why Aleister Crowley and I use of the spelling "Qabalah" instead of the more common "Kabbalah" which reflects his particular approach and interpretation of this mystical tradition. Here are several reasons for his choice:

1. Different Traditions:

   • The spelling "Kabbalah" is traditionally associated with the Jewish mystical tradition, focusing on the esoteric teachings found in texts such as the Zohar and the Sefer Yetzirah.
   • "Cabala" often refers to Christian adaptations of Jewish Kabbalah, which emerged during the Renaissance and incorporated elements of Christian theology.
   • "Qabalah" is often used by occultists, including those in the Hermetic tradition, to distinguish their practices and interpretations from the strictly Jewish or Christian forms. This spelling indicates a broader and more eclectic approach.

2. Thelemic and Hermetic Systems:

   • Crowley was a prominent figure in the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and later developed his own religious philosophy known as Thelema. The use of "Qabalah" aligns with the terminology and concepts within these esoteric systems, which often blend Kabbalistic teachings with other mystical, magical, and philosophical elements.
   • By using "Qabalah," Crowley signaled that his work was part of the Hermetic and Thelemic traditions, which reinterpreted Kabbalistic principles in new and often innovative ways.

3. Personal Interpretation and Innovation:

   • Crowley was known for his individualistic and sometimes idiosyncratic interpretations of mystical and magical systems. His use of "Qabalah" reflects his desire to present a unique and personalized understanding of these ancient teachings.
   • This spelling emphasizes the distinctiveness of his approach, incorporating elements from a wide range of esoteric traditions, including Eastern philosophies, Western occultism, and his own revelations.

4. Phonetic and Symbolic Considerations:

   • The letter "Q" in "Qabalah" might have been chosen for its phonetic qualities or symbolic associations. In the English alphabet, "Q" is a less common and more visually striking letter than "K" or "C," perhaps making it more suitable for representing a mystical and esoteric tradition.
   • Crowley might have felt that "Qabalah" more accurately conveyed the esoteric nature of the teachings, suggesting a break from conventional interpretations and an invitation to explore deeper, hidden meanings.

5. Influence of the Golden Dawn:

   • The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, where Crowley received much of his training, used the spelling "Qabalah" in their teachings. This likely influenced Crowley's preference for this spelling, aligning his work with the Golden Dawn's practices and interpretations.

In summary, Aleister Crowley's use of "Qabalah" reflects his alignment with the Hermetic and Thelemic traditions, his desire to distinguish his interpretations from traditional Jewish and Christian forms, and his emphasis on a unique and personalized approach to these mystical teachings.

When the 9 of Wands is thrown in a divination, it implies:

• Great strength, power, and recovery from sickness.
• A tremendous inner force that can't be shaken but fear and apprehension will try, without success. 
• The illusion of doubt may rear its ugly head, but success will prevail.
• That with the Moon's influence, Illusion is always prevalent, such is the burden of imagination; However, there is such a great strength of Will present, as shown by the Sun as a driving force, that despite the strife and self-doubt, the querent will succeed in all endeavors.
• Imagination may be a burden when fear based, but if used properly, by balancing it with rational thought, it is so light a burden that it becomes pleasurable creativity.
• The Strength of the Fiery balance of Spirit and Body is all potential and has no known limits.
• To love the body as part of the Whole Spirit.
• Attending to the protection of what you created.
• Having a strong immune system.

• If reversed, it implies:

• Physiological injuries.
• Contradictions. 
• Suppressed sexual urges that come out as aggression and violence. 

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