The Ninth...

The figure 8 itself forms a symbol called the lemniscate, which is the scientific sign for infinity and carries deep philosophical meaning. It represents the cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth, symbolising the eternal flow of existence. The shape of the number 8 conveys a sense of balance and continuity, encapsulating the interconnectedness of all things.

In general, 8 is seen as a good number, symbolising cosmic harmony and balance, particularly among the inter-cardinal points and the four cardinal directions. It signifies stability and the union of opposites, reflecting the complexities of existence.

Historical Context and Usage

The historical significance of the number 8 can be traced through several ancient civilisations, highlighting its role in cultural development:

Ta-Mery Empire (c. 6000 BCE and earlier): Encompassing Kemet (ancient Egypt) and Kush (ancient Sudan), the number 8 symbolised eternal life and was integral to spiritual beliefs and rituals surrounding the afterlife. The Ancient Egyptians often linked 8 with the concept of completeness, incorporating it into their cosmology. They believed that the afterlife was a continuation of life on Earth, and the number 8 represented the cycle of rebirth. Rituals, including those for the dead, frequently employed 8 sacred oils and offerings, underscoring the number's importance in their spiritual practices.

Sumer (c. 3500 BCE): The Sumerians (ancient Iraq) recognized 8 as significant in their mathematical and astronomical systems. They used 8 in their calculations and architectural designs, associating it with balance and harmony in their society. The division of time into 8 parts was reflected in their calendars and religious practices, which were closely tied to celestial observations. The number's prominence in their mythology further emphasized its role in shaping their understanding of the universe.

Bharata (Indus Valley Civilisation) (c. 3300–1300 BCE): The early civilisations in Bharata (ancient India) incorporated 8 into their spiritual practices. In Hindu philosophy, 8 represents the eight aspects of divinity, often linked to the eight petals of the lotus, symbolising spiritual awakening and purity. Additionally, the concept of Ashtanga in yoga, comprising eight limbs, emphasizes the holistic approach to spiritual development. These aspects guide practitioners toward enlightenment, reinforcing the significance of 8 in Hindu thought.

Mesoamerica (c. 1500 BCE): In Mesoamerican cultures, particularly the Maya and Aztecs, the number 8 appeared in various rituals and calendars, symbolising the balance of cosmic forces. The Maya recognized 8 as significant in their agricultural practices, aligning their planting and harvesting cycles with celestial events. Rituals dedicated to the gods often involved 8 offerings, reflecting the interconnectedness of the cosmos and human activity.

Zanghgu (c. 3000 BCE): In the Zangzhou region (ancient China), the number 8 was associated with harmony and balance. It played a significant role in philosophical teachings and was linked to the eight trigrams of the I Ching, which embody the interplay of natural forces. The eight trigrams represented fundamental principles of change and transformation, guiding practitioners in their understanding of the world.

Hellas (Ancient Greece) (c. 800 BCE): For the Pythagoreans, 8 (or Ogdoad) was considered a sacred number. They viewed it as symbolizing the harmony of the cosmos, linked to geometric shapes like the cube, which has eight corners. This geometric perspective reinforced their belief in the mathematical order of the universe, and 8 was celebrated as a number that encompassed balance and completeness.

Tantric System (c. 300 CE): In the Tantric system, 8 (or Ashta) is an auspicious number. Ashtanga yoga comprises eight limbs that guide practitioners toward spiritual enlightenment. This system emphasizes the integration of various aspects of life and spirituality, making the number 8 a vital component of the journey to self-realization.

Japanese Beliefs (c. 6th century CE): In Japan, the number 8 is significant in various cultural practices, including the belief that there are eight directions of the universe, each ruled by a deity. This reflects the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual realms. Festivals and rituals often celebrate the eight directions, highlighting their importance in Shinto beliefs and ancestor veneration.

Buddhism (c. 6th century CE): An important part of Buddhist doctrine is the Eight Auspicious Items, or Ashtamangala. These symbols represent various aspects of auspiciousness and are often used in rituals and ceremonies. The eight symbols serve as reminders of the path to enlightenment, embodying the values essential for achieving spiritual goals.

Tibetan Buddhism (c. 5th century CE): The eight directions hold significance in Tibetan Buddhism, representing the interconnectedness of all beings and the path toward enlightenment. Practices often involve visualizing the eight directions to cultivate awareness and harmony within oneself and the universe.

European Christianity (c. 1st century CE): In European Christianity, 8 is significant as it symbolizes new beginnings and resurrection. The eighth day, following the Sabbath, is considered a new beginning in Christian theology, linking the number to the concept of rebirth and eternal life. This connection emphasizes the transformative power of faith and the promise of renewal.

Alchemy (c. 15th century CE): In alchemy, 8 is associated with various processes, reflecting transformation and the balance of elemental forces. Alchemical texts reference 8 operations that lead to spiritual and material refinement, symbolising the journey toward achieving the philosopher's stone.

Agreeable Connotations:

Authority and personal power, self-confidence, executive ability, confidence, inner strength, professionalism, management, material freedom, success, good judgment, money, finances, riches, manifesting wealth, abundance and prosperity, provision, investments, discrimination and discernment, giving and receiving, thoroughness, dependability, self-reliance, repose, practicality, inner wisdom, self-sufficiency, social status, pragmatism, the ego, aggregation, compassion, dictatorship, executive delegation, reality, truth and integrity, multiples, employment, stability, appearance, customs, skills and talents, exchanges, problem-solving, organisation and planning, decisiveness, control, ambition, efficiency, trustworthiness, insight, learning through experience, true justice, patience, caution, self-discipline, free will, spiritual consciousness, and a love of humanity and world transformation. The number 8 is also associated with Karma—the Universal Spiritual Law of Cause and Effect.

Disagreeable Connotations:

Superiority complex, greed, tactlessness, and domineering.