Significance of Number 9 in Sanatan Hindu Belief!
We, as human beings, are fascinating creatures. We are, intellectually, the most superior beings. Rightly so! We always try to unlock the mysteries of the universe. The most important tool or medium that helps us discover the layers of the universe is astrology. Astrology helps us decode almost anything. One of the most fascinating aspects we can discover with the help of astrology is numbers. People have lucky numbers. They wait for certain dates to buy something important. Correctly so, numbers have divine significance. How else can one account for nine (for instance) – forms of devotion, planets, gates of human bodies, nine forms of Maa Durga worshipped during Navratri, navratnas (nine precious stones), and more?
Nine, or Navam, is one of the most complete, divine, and fundamental numbers in Vedic astrology. It is a representation of the end of a cycle. It contains negativity as well as positivity. Most people consider it lucky. They are not far from the truth, either.
It is associated with so many significant things. Let us get into that:
Nine Forms of Devotion
The most scared text of all – Bhagavata Purana mentions nine forms of devotion, which include hearing about God, singing God’s praises, remembering God, serving God’s feet, worshipping God, offering prayers to God, serving the cause of God, forming a friendship with God, and surrendering to God. Through these 9 acts of devotion, one can get closer to Parmatma.
Even the Hindu schools of philosophy, the most ancient of all, give utmost importance to number 9. In Vaisheshika Hindu philosophy founded by Maharishi Kanada, there are nine fundamental universal substances or elements: Earth, Water, Air, Fire, Ether, Time, Space, Soul and Mind. These elements form the foundational constituents of the material and metaphysical aspects of the universe.
Nine Planets (Navagrahas)
Probably the most important significance of the number 9!
Vedic astronomy recognises nine Navagraha, whose movements influence the destinies of beings in different worlds. These 9 planets, their positionings, associations, blessings and wrath are the factors behind us, being able to, or not able to achieve anything in life. These include the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. The names of the days of the week are derived from the first seven planets.
The number 9 holds significant influence over individuals born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th of any month in Hindu astrology. The planet Mangal rules over the number nine. This association with Lord Hanuman makes Tuesday the most auspicious day for those born under this number.
Mars or Mangal, is like a commander among the gods, and it’s often seen as a masculine figure. People with the number nine tend to have a strong sense of purpose, duty, and discipline. They possess qualities like courage, patience, and confidence.
However, those influenced by the number nine can also be quick-tempered, argumentative, restless, and sometimes even cruel and violent. This happens because Mars, which is considered a challenging planet in astrology, has an impact on them. Mars is associated with the blood and the muscular system. It supports the immune system and the body’s defence mechanisms.
Even a subject as fundamental and technical as mathematics gives importance to 9 as well. What makes the number 9 particularly unique is its mathematical properties. When you add or multiply any number by 9, it preserves its original identity. In this sense, 9 is often referred to as a “full number.” It symbolises constancy and stability, even amidst change. This enduring quality of 9 is a distinctive aspect of its significance in Hinduism.
Nine Gates of the Human Body
Nine has an association with the human body as well. The human body is considered a city with nine gates corresponding to its nine openings, such as the eyes, ears, nostrils, navel, and excretory openings. The self or atman, resides in this “temple” with nine gates.
Nine Treasures of Lord Kubera
Lord Kubera is described as the possessor of nine treasures, which include Mahapadma, Padma, Shankha, Makara, Kacchapa, Mukunda, Kunda, Nila, and Kharva. These treasures hold various interpretations.
These nine treasures are invoked when worshipping Bhagwan Kubera, as worshipping him can bring wealth and prosperity to one’s life.
Nine Jewels, or Precious Stones (Navratnas)
There is mention of nine jewels or precious stones, such as Mukta, Manikya, Vajra, Vaidhurya, Gomedhika, Vidruma, Padmaraga, Marakantna and Nila.
These stones are not only aesthetically appealing but have spiritual significance as well. People with a specific zodiac who wear the stone associated with their zodiac can gain immensely.
Foundation Laying Ceremony
In the foundation laying ceremony of temple construction, it is customary to place nine jewels and nine forms of grains (Navadhanyas) in the earth where the foundation stone is laid and the idols are installed.
Durga Worship During Navratri
Nine forms of the goddess Durga are worshipped for nine days and nights. Devotees of the goddess observe a nine-day fast during this period.
The mother goddess engages in a nine-day battle against formidable rakshasas, ultimately issuing commands to the world. This is the tale that we have grown up listening to. And being associated with Maa Durga herself gives the number 9 unmatched significance.
Now that you know the significance of Navam or 9, try to associate your most auspicious acts with this number. Who knows, it may lead you to ultimate luck and richness. It is worth a try!
To know more about the fascinating significance of any other number or what greatness or wrath any particular number holds for you, you can always speak to expert astrologers and pundits at NamoAstro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the importance of the number 108 in Hinduism?
A: In Hinduism, the number 108 holds great significance and is often regarded as a sacred symbol representing the entirety of the universe. It is deeply associated with the heart chakra and is commonly used in prayer beads.
Q: Which number is numerology 9 compatible with?
A: In numerology, the number 9 is most harmonious when paired with individuals who share the same numerology number, which is 9. This compatibility is often believed to lead to a fulfilling and joyous marriage.
