Report

Those born on November 9 face a tremendous temptation to give themselves completely to the here and now, to earthly pleasures of all types, and to submerge themselves in an unremitting search for experiential highs. They are often completely caught up in the excitement of what they are doing at the moment, and thus not fully aware of dark forces that may operating behind their drives. For those born on this day to look themselves squarely in the eye is a tremendous and potentially rewarding challenge, as is learning how to direct their prodigious talents and energies in a constructive and productive way. Temptation itself figures as a major theme in the lives of November 9 people and along with it corresponding moral dilemmas involving upbringing vs. adult experience, societal vs. personal morality, etc. Usually the ethical instincts of those born on this day are well developed, so when they sin, they are fully aware of what they are doing. Nevertheless, some born on this day may reach a point where they are only able to find satisfaction, whether mental or physical, when engaged in dangerous, shadowy or outright illicit activities. A very positive theme central to the lives of these complex people is the joy of discovery. Often they emerge from their intense experiences having made important realizations about themselves and life itself. Those November 9 people who grow more philosophical with age are capable of withdrawing into a contemplative or meditative state where they can assess their actions and make prudent choices for the future. Still, even after acquiring a large measure of wisdom, those born on this day rarely pause in the thick of battle to ponder their direction; for them, such work is to be done afterwards, preferably in tranquility. November 9 people live close to the edge, and therefore must learn to protect themselves. In addition it is important for them to maintain respect for their fellow human beings, and to beware of becoming mercenary in their relationships. As they are highly sensitive to rejection, those born on this day also face the danger of retreating into themselves, nursing private grudges and fears, and even in extreme cases coming to live in a dark fantasy world. More highly evolved individuals born on November 9 use their profound relationship with the dark side to gain insight into how life and the universe work, and equally important, learn to share these insights with others. Like Orpheus rising from the underworld, November 9 people must never look back but constantly move onward and upward toward the light. The greatest danger is that they will get stuck (particularly in the physical-material realm), and for this reason should set themselves high moral and ethical, albeit worldly, goals.

Numbers

Those born on the 9th of the month are ruled by the number 9 and by the planet Mars. The number 9 is powerful in its influence on other numbers (any number added to 9 yields that number: e.g., 5+9=14, 4+1=5, and any number multiplied by 9 yields a 9: e.g., 9x5=45, 4+5=9), and the ability of November 9 people to influence others is similarly enhanced. The planet Mars is forceful and aggressive, embodying male energy, and for November 9 people (both men and women) this is doubly true since Mars is also co-ruler of their sign, Scorpio. When combined with Pluto (principal ruler of Scorpio), Mars’s potential for ruthlessness and blind ambition is augmented— but so is the potential for meaningful and deeply transformative changes.

Archetype

The 9th card of the Tarot’s Major Arcana is The Hermit, who is usually depicted walking with a lantern and a stick; he represents meditation, isolation and quietude. The card also signifies crystallized wisdom and practiced discipline. The Hermit is a taskmaster who motivates by conscience and guides others on their path. The positive side of this card is stick-to-it-iveness, purpose, profundity and concentration; negative qualities include dogmatism, intolerance, mistrust and discouragement. November 9 people must beware of becoming too withdrawn from the world, like the Hermit, but perhaps can learn from his positive introspection.

Health

Those born on November 9 at some point will have to deal with their internal emotional roller-coaster. Ups and downs might be evened out by a balanced diet and plenty of exercise; perhaps practicing yoga and meditation could also prove beneficial. Foodwise, it may be necessary to cut down on yang foods (particularly meat), and to move more in the direction of a vegetarian diet. Vigorous activities that favor betterment of objective goals (gymnastics, rock climbing, surfing, etc.) may meet the rugged appetites of November 9 people. Plenty of sleep is important, but should not be abused as an escape from the waking world.

Advice

Cultivate your spiritual side. Learn to float. Don’t just enjoy your pleasures—be aware of their effect. Step back from time to time and observe yourself living. Heed your inner voice and follow your higher self.

Meditation

The act of succumbing to temptation holds many mighty challenges