Nine of Wands
Nine of Wands
The Nine of Wands depicts a weary, injured man who holds a staff as though in a posture of final defense. He is protected by a number of wands propped up like a wall behind him. This card indicates struggle and the need to call up out of ourselves the strength needed to overcome a challenge which may seem insurmountable. The man in the card has survived many battles and even wears a bandage around his head. Yet in his eye is the determination to overcome this final challenge to his accomplishment and victory.
When we encounter the Nine of Wands we are often in the midst of a challenge that appeared just when we thought all was won, at the moment before our final accomplishment of a creative task or goal. The card indicates that we have the inner resources necessary to overcome any difficulty we encounter, even though it may seem impossible at the time. How often do we give up just before we finally achieve success? This card is a sign of hope and encouragement that if we stand firm and strong against challenge, we will achieve our goal. The challenges before us are only the last bit of darkness before the break of wonderful dawn.The figure on the Nine of Wands has definitely been through some tough times. His head and arm are bandaged, and he's leaning on a "crutch." This fighter has seen some battles, but he's still standing! He's hurt, but he's not down. When we have had a bad experience, we feel weary and battle-scarred. Even if we aren't hurt physically, our psyches are wounded. Our openness, innocence and trust is gone, replaced by wary defensiveness.
In readings, the Nine of Wands can be a warning that you must proceed carefully. Keep a watchful eye because there is the possibility that you will be hurt. If you have already been burned, you know what this man is feeling. Life's lessons can be hard sometimes, especially when hopes have been dashed. It is natural to feel defensive at such times, but try to avoid becoming bitter. Your experience has wounded you, but it has strengthened you as well.
Strength is the other aspect of the Nine of Wands. This fighter is tough! He has the physical stamina and the inner drive to persist despite all setbacks. In The Terminator, Arnold Schwarzenegger plays an android from the future who never gives up. In the end he is nothing but a wire framework with glowing eyes, but he still keeps coming - dragging himself along the floor to his goal. This is the spirit of the Nine of Wands. This card tells you to keep going no matter what. Even if everyone and everything seems to be against you right now, don't give up. Within you are the hidden reserves you need to prevail.
The number nine is the number of completion. It is the final stage of all the numbers that have come before it. In this number we also see tiny little seeds of new beginnings being planted to take root.
The Nine of Wands represents a man who has been knocked down and around, beaten, yet he has overcome all that has gone before. He has fought the battle and won. He appears drained and weary as he leans on his wand, but is ready to go to battle again. He stands up for what he believes in and holds firm in those beliefs. He is secure in who he is.
Being prepared. Eventual victory with more fighting. Defense of oneself. Strong opposing of those who do you wrong.
Strength, discipline, wisdom from experience, dedications, self-confidence, stability, done his best, success is likely.
Resilience. Be patient and vigilant. Be assured that you will eventually prosper if you maintain your position. Accept responsibilities. Being ready for the next fight. (To such an extent that the enemy might have already surrendered but this goes by unnoticed.) Keeping his eyes on the enemy. (The man is scarred though, although he has previously defeated his enemies, perhaps he is damaged/lacking in something).
The Nine of Wands indicates strength. You will be opposed by secret enemies and your interests will be questioned. Unexpected difficulties with all situations. It will be necessary then, to have support available to help you overcome these obstacles. Want efforts to bear fruit, to socialize, circulate and be out with others, and your health (or that of another) to improve. If you don't succeed at first, try again. Also, expect good news concerning business, love, or finances.
One last test or challenge remains. You feel as if you've come to the end of your fighting powers, but you have skill and determination in reserve. You're actually in a position of strength. Although you'll need to draw on all your courage and abilities, you prevail. Be patient. Keep your own counsel. Once the last obstacle is overcome, you're home free.
Health issues - head injury; shoulder; knee; ankle; jaw (TMJ); bladder meridian.
Discipline. You need to be disciplined. The strength of your will, character and body may soon be tested. Gather and preserve your resources now so you may confidently defend your position later. Stay faithful to your purpose.
The Nine of Wands reversed suggests that you may be hesitant to make a long-term commitment. You may be feeling as if life is all work and no play, and you may feel overcome by responsibilities or a lack of support from those around you. As such, you are hesitant to make any commitments in fear that the responsibilities will become all too much. Be careful also of dwelling on past frustrations and grievances. Just try to let go.You may also be more inclined to be a little ‘on edge’ and on the defensive. The boundaries you have set around yourself are now becoming your cage, locking you into your old habits and behaviours.
Be careful not to assume things or make hasty judgements. Lighten up a little and return to the eight of wands where you take life as it comes in all its various forms. Go with the flow and release yourself of the pressures you are feeling. A holiday or a break might do you some good where you can re-energise and rejuvenate yourself.
To ensure a successful outcome sit perfectly still in a spot you consider to be one of your places of power and say this prayer. "Lord of Light and Life, I call up on you in my hour of need. I have chosen a course of action. Grant me the strength to prepare and endure."