Introduction
The problem with feeling so full of energy is that, eventually, you’ll come crashing down. The Eight of Wands reflected that high energetic enthusiasm where you knew you could achieve anything; now the Nine of Wands is here to catch you when you fall. This is the card of determination, persistence, and deep strength; you cannot give up now.
Nines represent penultimate stages. The end is nigh, but you have one or more tasks remaining before you can sign off on the job and declare completion.
Imagery
A weary man stands before a row of eight staves or wands. He leans on the ninth. He is bruised and battered and wears a bandage to protect a head wound. His clothes are muted browns and greens over a white shirt. The background is a rolling green landscape, and the sky is pale.
General Meanings
One last push is all that’s needed. You have worked so hard; you should not give up now. Not that you were even considering it, were you? You are almost at the end of this current life stage, and pretty soon new opportunities will come. The Nine of Wands indicates that you are tired, so tired that you are even considering handing over the task to another. Despite yet another setback, you can do this thing you set out to do. You have more stamina and persistence than you think you do.
Certain Major Arcana cards will indicate what you need to do. Strength means keep going. The Magician tells you that you have all the resources you need to finish the task. The Hanged Man might suggest that you take a temporary break.
The reversed Nine of Wands suggests that you have already given up. That your energy simply ran out, and you have turned away. Take a break, you may feel inclined to return to the fray shortly.
Interpretations in Various Areas of Life
Work
You wonder why you ever took on this challenge in the first place. Was it worth it? Long hours, intensive labor, and time away from home have almost broken your spirit. This last difficulty feels like the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back. Fear not, the end is in sight, although you might be too close to the situation to see it. Ask friends and family to give you the support required for you to make it through.
Your job search is overwhelming, and you feel like giving up. What you can’t see from where you stand is that each rejection has brought you closer to the job you want. Don’t stop now.
Love
Love has given you a bit of a battering lately, and you are close to saying goodbye. You know this is not how it’s meant to be. If you value your love, then you must be prepared to keep fighting for it. There are solutions—find them. If you think talking to someone else might help, then don’t hesitate any longer, pick up the phone and make that appointment.
So you got dumped again? Or perhaps you are the one who ended it this time? All this turmoil makes you weary and tired. Perhaps you need a break from the dating game? Tell yourself, right now, you can win by admitting defeat. Walk away, allow the scars to heal, and come back refreshed in a few weeks or months.
Finances
Investments need a little care and attention. Don’t take any big risks right now. Hunker down and ride out the storm.
Your general finances are taking a beating. There could be major repairs, veterinary bills, medical expenses and suchlike. Check that your insurance policies are up to dealing with any unexpected disaster. Don’t overspend; wait until the money situation eases up.
Health
The Nine of Wands can mean you suffer an accident. Broken limbs, bumps on the head, strains, twisted ankles and torn ligaments are all represented by this card. These injuries, while quite serious at the time, are well able to heal. If you are fit and healthy, take extra care on steps and uneven walkways.
This card may also appear when a difficult birth is imminent. All will be well, although poor mom will be exhausted. She’ll need all the support you can give her.
Spirituality
Someone or some event has caused you to question your beliefs. That’s okay; you need this to happen occasionally so that you will adjust your direction slightly or be more determined to continue your current trajectory. Only you know what is best for you. Don’t give up because someone else ridiculed your faith—it’s their problem, not yours.
