#tarottraditionalqabalahelitarot2strikingly.com

The Rider-Waite-Smith- 9 of Cups illustrates the more mundane meaning of The Lord of Material Happiness. The smiling figure is enjoying complete success and fulfillment of wishes and proudly displays the wealth of nine golden cups in a moon-like crescent. The blue or aquamarine curtain represents the element of water as does the moon crescent.

There is a more subtitle esoteric meaning to this card as the number 9, is the Sephiroth- Yesod [foundation/the Moon] on the Qabalistic Tree of Life. The 9 of Cups is Yesod in the Suit of water, and 9, being also the number of the Moon, strengthens Water's reflection. Thus, the stability is restored to Water. After its wobbly exclusions to Hod -8-left hand path/pillar, and Netzach-right hand path/pillar suit of Water has now returned to the Middle Pillar.

Traditionally the 9 of Cups tarot cards are assigned Jupiter in the house of Pisces.

When Jupiter is in the sign of Pisces, it creates a blend of energies that can be quite intriguing. Here are some characteristics of Jupiter in the house of Pisces:

1. Expansive Spirituality: Jupiter, the planet of expansion and growth, finds its idealistic and spiritual expression in Pisces, a sign associated with spirituality, mysticism, and transcendence. Individuals with this placement often have a deep-seated spiritual inclination and may find themselves drawn to mystical or religious pursuits.

2. Compassionate and empathetic: Pisces is a compassionate and empathetic sign, and when combined with Jupiter's benevolent influence, it enhances the individual's capacity for empathy and understanding. They are often compassionate listeners and may be drawn to helping others in need.

3. Imaginative and Creative: Both Jupiter and Pisces are associated with creativity and imagination. People with this placement may have a vivid imagination and a talent for creative expression, whether through art, music, or other forms of artistic endeavors.

4. Idealism and Optimism: Jupiter in Pisces can contribute to a deeply idealistic worldview. These individuals may have a strong belief in the inherent goodness of people and the possibility of a better world. They are often optimistic and hopeful, even in the face of adversity.

5. Sensitivity to the Unseen Realms: Pisces is linked to the realm of the subconscious, dreams, and the collective unconscious. With Jupiter in Pisces, there is a heightened sensitivity to the unseen realms and an intuitive understanding of the mysteries of existence. This placement may manifest as a strong interest in psychic phenomena, dreams, or the occult.

6. Escapism and Fantasy: On the flip side, the combination of Jupiter's expansiveness and Pisces' tendency towards escapism can sometimes lead to a propensity for living in a world of fantasy or illusion. Individuals with this placement may need to be mindful of avoiding excessive escapism or delusion, staying grounded in reality while still honoring their spiritual and imaginative nature.

7. Philanthropy and Generosity: Jupiter in Pisces often fosters a generous and philanthropic attitude. These individuals may be inclined to give back to their community or contribute to charitable causes, motivated by a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the world.

Overall, Jupiter in Pisces tends to amplify the spiritual, compassionate, and imaginative qualities associated with both Jupiter and Pisces, offering a rich tapestry of experiences and opportunities for growth in these areas of life.

The Animal Totem Tarot-9 of Cups depicts an image reminiscent of fulfillment, content and happiness and an end of a journey. The Butterfly knows all about transformation and transition from one cycle to another. From caterpillar to a winged beauty, the butterfly implies it's time to accept the changes in your life, you can never go back to being a caterpillar no matter how much you want to. Just as the caterpillar goes into a cocoon for rest and recovery, this card suggests that you do that to.

• Wellbeing.
• Material security.
• Superiority.
• Serenity. What is not shown but is astrologically assigned to this card is Jupiter in Pisces.

This fulfillment and security are not just from financial wealth, but also arises from deep connections, transformations, and relationships with others. Hence, it behooves one to cultivate meaningful relationships with loved ones and to give back to others whenever possible. There is a caveat here that one must let go of the past and move forward as there is a tendency to live in a state of dreaminess and not see the road ahead.

The butterfly holds rich symbolism and characteristics in its roles as a spirit guide, power animal, and animal totem. Below is an elucidation of these aspects:

Butterfly as a Spirit Guide

When the butterfly appears as a spirit guide, it often comes to assist in transformation, growth, and navigating life changes. Its message is one of hope, renewal, and the natural cycles of life.

• Transformation: The butterfly embodies the metamorphic process, guiding you to embrace significant changes and see them as opportunities for personal evolution.
• Freedom and Joy: It encourages lightheartedness and the ability to find beauty in small, everyday moments.
• Spiritual Growth: The butterfly reminds us of the soul's journey, symbolizing ascension to higher states of being and connection to the divine.

Butterfly as a Power Animal

As a power animal, the butterfly provides strength and guidance in moments of change, helping you navigate transitions with grace.

• Adaptability: The butterfly teaches resilience and the ability to adapt to new environments or circumstances.
• Embracing Life's Phases: It encourages acceptance of life's different stages, from beginnings to completions, and finding empowerment in those phases.
• Lightness of Being: The butterfly's delicate flight represents the power of moving through life with ease, avoiding unnecessary burdens.

If you call on the butterfly as a power animal, it can help you:

• Let go of the past and embrace new beginnings.
• Maintain balance and poise during life’s uncertainties.
• See the beauty and potential in every phase of your journey.

Butterfly as an Animal Totem

As a totem, the butterfly is a lifelong symbol of transformation, joy, and the soul’s evolution. It reflects qualities inherent in those who resonate with it.

• Personal Characteristics:

  • Transformation Seekers: Those with the butterfly as a totem often undergo many changes in their lives and view them as opportunities for self-improvement.
  • Joyful and Expressive: They are often cheerful, creative, and seek to spread positivity to others.
  • Attuned to Beauty: Butterfly people have a keen appreciation for aesthetics, nature, and harmony.

• Cultural Significance:

  • In many cultures, the butterfly symbolizes the soul. For example:
    • Greek Mythology: The word "psyche" means both "soul" and "butterfly."
    • Native American Traditions: Butterflies are seen as messengers of joy and transformation.

• Challenges for Butterfly Totem Bearers:

  • They may struggle with grounding and stability, often seeking change so frequently that it disrupts their sense of security.
  • They may also need to balance their lighthearted nature with deeper introspection when necessary.

Summary of Key Themes

The butterfly, in its roles as spirit guide, power animal, and totem, teaches lessons of:

• Transformation and Renewal: Embrace change as a natural part of life.
• Lightness and Joy: Find happiness and freedom in life’s experiences.
• Spiritual Evolution: Recognize and honor the soul’s journey.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Thrive amidst life’s inevitable transitions.

By understanding and integrating the butterfly’s characteristics, one can navigate life with greater grace, optimism, and spiritual awareness.

Here is a thoughtfully designed ritual for calling on a Butterfly as a spirit guide, focusing on its transformative, lighthearted, and spiritual qualities. This ritual can be performed during a time of personal change, growth, or when seeking guidance for navigating life transitions. The Animal Totem Tarot -9 of Cups card can be used as scrying device in this ritual.

Ritual for Calling on the Butterfly Spirit Guide

Preparation:

1. Choose a Sacred Space:

   • Find a peaceful location, either indoors or outdoors, where you will not be disturbed. If possible, choose a place in nature (e.g., a garden or park) where butterflies may naturally dwell.
   • Cleanse the area using your preferred method (smudging, sound, or visualization).

2. Gather Your Tools:

   • A white candle (symbolizing light and transformation).
   • Incense or essential oil with floral or citrus notes (e.g., lavender, jasmine, or orange blossom) to evoke the butterfly's connection to flowers.
   • A butterfly image, figurine, or token (optional but helpful for focus).
   • Journal and pen (for noting any insights).
   • A small bowl of water and flower petals (representing the butterfly’s environment).

3. Timing:

   • Perform the ritual during dawn or twilight, when butterflies are most active, or during a waxing or full moon to harness the energy of growth and illumination.

The Ritual:

1. Grounding and Centering:

   • Sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths. Close your eyes and visualize roots growing from your body into the earth, grounding you.
   • Imagine a warm light flowing from above into your crown, filling you with peace and clarity.

2. Create Sacred Intent:

   • Light the candle and say:
     "I call upon the energy of transformation and light. I seek the wisdom and guidance of the Butterfly spirit, who embodies growth, joy, and the beauty of change."
   • Light the incense or diffuse the essential oil, allowing the fragrance to fill the space.

3. Invocation of the Butterfly Spirit:

   • Hold the butterfly image, figurine, or token in your hands (or focus your mind on the essence of a butterfly if no object is available).
   • Chant softly, either using your words or this invocation:
     "Gentle Butterfly, spirit of the air,
     Guide of beauty, love, and care,
     Through change and growth, you softly fly,
     Show me the path, lift me up high."

4. Meditation and Visualization:

   • Close your eyes and visualize yourself in a meadow filled with wildflowers. Picture a butterfly approaching you. It may be any color, size, or type—trust the form it takes.
   • Observe the butterfly’s movements and presence. What emotions or thoughts arise? Does it land on you, circle you, or lead you somewhere?
   • Ask it questions silently or aloud, such as:
     • What message do you have for me?
     • How can I embrace transformation in my life?
     • What beauty or joy am I overlooking?

5. Thanking the Butterfly Spirit:

   • After receiving insights, thank the butterfly spirit for its guidance:
     "Butterfly spirit, I honor your wisdom and light. Thank you for your presence and the blessings you bring."

6. Closing the Ritual:

   • Extinguish the candle and incense.
   • Place the flower petals into the water and return them to the earth, thanking nature for its support.

After the Ritual:

• Record Your Experience: Write down any messages, symbols, or feelings that came through during the ritual.
• Look for Signs: Be mindful of butterflies or related symbols appearing in your daily life, as these may hold further messages.
• Act on Insights: Incorporate the butterfly’s lessons of transformation, joy, or spiritual growth into your life.

This ritual can be repeated as needed, especially during times of transition or when you feel disconnected from your inner joy and purpose. It’s a beautiful way to align with the butterfly’s transformative and uplifting energy.

In numerology, the number 9 is considered to hold powerful and distinct characteristics. It is often viewed as the number of completion and humanitarianism. Here are some key characteristics associated with the number 9 in numerology:

1. Humanitarianism and Compassion

• Altruism: Number 9 is strongly associated with a sense of duty and compassion towards others. Individuals with this number are often driven to help humanity and make the world a better place.
• Selflessness: They are known for their selfless nature, often putting the needs of others before their own.

2. Idealism and Vision

• Idealistic: People influenced by the number 9 are typically idealistic and visionary. They hold high ideals and strive to achieve lofty goals.
• Inspiration: They have the ability to inspire others with their vision and dedication to humanitarian causes.

3. Completion and Fulfillment

• End of a Cycle: Number 9 symbolizes the end of a cycle, bringing things to a completion before a new cycle begins. It represents the culmination of experiences and lessons learned.
• Fulfillment: There is a sense of fulfillment and understanding that comes with the number 9, indicating a deep wisdom gained through life experiences.

4. Creativity and Artistic Expression

• Creative: People with the number 9 are often highly creative and artistic. They express themselves through various forms of art, music, and writing.
• Innovative: Their creativity often leads to innovative ideas and solutions.

5. Leadership and Influence

• Natural Leaders: Those influenced by the number 9 often take on leadership roles, driven by their vision and desire to bring positive change.
• Influential: They have a strong presence and can influence others through their charisma and dedication to causes.

6. Emotional and Sensitive

• Deep Emotions: Number 9 individuals are deeply emotional and sensitive. They feel things intensely and are highly empathetic.
• Understanding: Their sensitivity allows them to understand and connect with others on a profound level.

7. Wisdom and Enlightenment

• Old Souls: People with the number 9 are often considered "old souls," possessing a deep wisdom and understanding of life's complexities.
• Spiritual Awareness: They have a heightened sense of spiritual awareness and are often drawn to exploring philosophical and metaphysical subjects.

8. Generosity and Philanthropy

• Generous: Number 9 individuals are known for their generosity and willingness to give to others, often engaging in philanthropic activities.
• Charitable: They are drawn to charitable work and causes that promote the well-being of humanity.

9. Challenges and Growth

• Letting Go: One of the challenges for number 9 individuals is learning to let go of the past and move forward. They may struggle with endings and the emotional aspects of closure.
• Balancing Self and Others: Finding a balance between their own needs and the needs of others can be a lifelong challenge for those with the number 9.

Overall, the number 9 in numerology is associated with a high level of compassion, creativity, and wisdom. It signifies a deep connection to humanity and a desire to contribute positively to the world.

In Western Hermetic Gematria (Qabalistic numerology) which is used in Western Hermetic Tarot the number nine has similar meanings but more of an occult nature.

In gematria, the number 9 carries several characteristics and symbolic meanings, rooted in Jewish mysticism, numerology, and biblical traditions. Here are some of the key characteristics and implications of the number 9 in gematria:

1. Completion and Finality

• Cycle of Completion: The number 9 is often associated with the end of a cycle or a phase, representing completeness and fulfillment. It is seen as the last single-digit number, symbolizing the culmination of processes and the attainment of goals.
• Ultimate Fulfillment: It indicates a state of reaching the fullest potential or the final stage before a new beginning, aligning with the concept of transition and transformation.

2. Truth and Wisdom

• Embodiment of Truth: The number 9 is linked with truth and enlightenment. In Hebrew, the word for truth (אמת, "Emet") has a numerical value that reduces to 9, symbolizing the ultimate and unchanging nature of truth.
• Pursuit of Wisdom: It is often associated with deep wisdom and the pursuit of higher knowledge, reflecting a journey towards understanding profound truths.

3. Divine Attributes

• Spiritual Significance: In Kabbalistic/Qabalistic thought, the number 9 corresponds to the sephirah Yesod on the Tree of Life. Yesod represents the foundation and the channel through which divine energy flows into the physical world, highlighting the number's spiritual importance.
• Connection to the Divine: Yesod serves as the intermediary between the higher and lower realms, symbolizing the flow of spiritual insights into material existence.

4. Humanitarianism and Generosity

• Service to Others: The number 9 is often associated with humanitarianism, altruism, and a strong sense of duty towards others. Individuals influenced by this number are driven to help and uplift humanity.
• Compassion and Empathy: It embodies qualities of compassion, empathy, and a desire to contribute positively to the world, reflecting a selfless nature.

5. Biblical and Mystical References

• Biblical Symbolism: There are several instances in the Bible where the number 9 holds significance, such as the nine fruits of the Spirit in the New Testament and the nine beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount. These references underscore its spiritual and moral importance.
• Mystical Interpretation: In Jewish mysticism, the number 9 is seen as a powerful and mystical number, often representing the hidden and esoteric aspects of the divine.

6. Mathematical Properties

• Intrinsic Patterns: The number 9 exhibits unique mathematical properties. For example, any number multiplied by 9, when its digits are summed, results in 9. This property symbolizes the idea of completeness and the cyclical nature of life.
• Self-Reflecting Nature: This characteristic of consistently reducing to itself highlights the number's self-reflecting and unchanging nature.

7. Hebrew Letters and Words

• Teth (ט): The Hebrew letter Teth corresponds to the number 9. It symbolizes goodness, concealment, and potential, often associated with the duality of good and evil.
• Transformation and Potential: Teth also represents the concept of transformation and the hidden potential within every individual and situation.

8. Dual Nature

• Good and Evil: The number 9, represented by the letter Teth, is often associated with the duality of good and evil. It signifies the potential for both positive and negative outcomes, depending on how one channels their energies and actions.
• Moral Choice: This dual nature underscores the importance of moral choices and the potential for transformation and redemption.

In summary, the number 9 in gematria is imbued with rich symbolism and profound meanings, encompassing themes of completion, truth, wisdom, spiritual significance, humanitarianism, and the intrinsic duality of existence.

When the 9 of Cups card is thrown during a divination, the querent is or will be experiencing:

• Complete pleasure, and success in a period of 9 weeks or 9 months.
• Complete and perfect realization of pleasure and happiness as wishes are fulfilled.
• There can be some vanity and conceit here, but it is good- natured.

•  High mindedness and not easily satisfied with small, gossipy, limited ideas.
• Such a person may be maligned because of their self-assumption but the querent, being of a good generous, sometimes foolish, nature, makes the malingers look overly critical.
• Concord.
• Contentment.
• Physical bien-être.
• Victory.
• Success.
• Satisfaction.

If ill defined by surrounding cards or reversed, it implies:

• Self-complacency. 
• Vanity.
• Arrogance. 
• Mistakes.
• Imperfections.

Thank you for your interest, comments, and supportive donations. May you live long and prosper.

Traditional Tarot Card Comparisons blog.

Home page, Tarot Store, Master Tarot Classes, and nontraditional Tarot Card Comparisons.