Lea Tsvayg, Period 6, 2-28-24

Lea Tsvayg, Period 6, 2-28-24

Modern Mythology 2024

Research Paper

Nine worlds. Nine days. Nine steps. The number nine is a recurring motif throughout Norse mythology. But what makes this number so special to the Norse? Does it have the same significance in other cultures too?

In Norse mythology, there are nine interconnected worlds, with Yggdrasil serving as a cosmic link between them. Odin, who is considered the chief of the Aesir, hung himself for nine days and nine nights in order to gain knowledge and wisdom. At Ragnarok, Thor managed to walk nine steps before his demise. This number clearly holds a deep meaning to the Norse. Although it is unknown why this number specifically held so much significance, it is speculated that there could be a relation to the “lunar calendar’s 27 days being a multiple of nine” (Conley).

The significance of this number extends beyond Norse mythology too, which is seen in its heavy presence in many cultures. In Greek mythology there are nine muses who serve as inspiration for the arts. In Egyptian mythology, there are nine Ennead gods, which are the most noble deities. In the bible, this number bears spiritual significance, as there are nine fruits of the holy spirit. In Hinduism there are nine forms of the goddess Durga, who is associated with strength and protection. In the Mayan calendar, there are “nine creation cycles, which represent nine levels of consciousness” (Calleman).  In China, this number represents longevity and eternality.  Even now, the sayings that cats have nine lives and that someone is on cloud nine are very common. Across cultures, this number emerges as a symbol of spiritual growth and cycles. 

However, upon further investigation, some cultures consider this number to be unlucky. For example, in Japan it is considered bad luck “because it sounds similar to the Japanese word for torture or suffering” (Skurie). This contrasting view on the number just goes to show the complexity of its symbolism and interpretation. 

Beyond the number nine, a plethora of numbers carry special meaning across cultures, whether positive or negative. Our perception of these numbers can influence our behavior.  For example, in gambling type games, people gravitate towards what they consider to be lucky numbers while avoiding those they deem unlucky. Similarly, athletes may avoid certain jersey numbers, fearing a negative impact on their performance. Superstitious beliefs also exist around days, such as Friday the 13th evoking unease among certain people. Many of these modern superstitions and aversions have roots in ancient beliefs and cultural lore, with their impact continuing through generations while the understanding of their origins fade. Reading ancient folklore can help us learn what numbers hold significance to certain cultures, and conversely, knowing the history behind these numbers can help us, as readers, better relate to and acknowledge the deeper cultural meaning of folklore stories. 

In conclusion, the number nine holds a unique significance, with rich symbolism and recurring themes. Across diverse cultures, it plays a notable role and maintains a constant presence in folklore, hinting at  deeper meanings and connections.

Works Cited:

Calleman, Carl Johan. “The Mayan Calendar and the Transformation of Consciousness.” Book by Carl Johan Calleman | Official Publisher Page | Simon & Schuster, www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Mayan-Calendar-and-the-Transformation-of-Consciousness/Carl-Johan-Calleman/9781591430285. Accessed 6 Mar. 2024. 

Conley, Nicholas. “The Reason the Number 9 Is so Important in Norse Mythology.” Grunge, Grunge, 9 Mar. 2023, www.grunge.com/181906/the-reason-the-number-9-is-so-important-in-norse-mythology/. 

Skurie, Jaclyn. “Superstitious Numbers around the World.” Culture, National Geographic, 3 May 2021, www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/130913-friday-luck-lucky-superstition-13.