Do cats have seven or nine lives? - briefly
Cats do not actually have seven or nine lives. This phrase is a popular myth and idiom, suggesting that cats are particularly resilient or lucky.
The myth likely originated from the cat's ability to survive falls from great heights, a phenomenon known as "high-rise syndrome," due to their agility and righting reflex. Additionally, cats have been revered in various cultures, contributing to the belief in their extraordinary resilience. The number seven is often associated with cats due to the seven lives mentioned in a proverb from 16th-century England. The number nine is referenced in an Italian proverb from the 16th century. The exact origin of the phrase remains uncertain, but it has been widely adopted in popular culture to emphasize the cat's perceived luck and survival skills.
Do cats have seven or nine lives? - in detail
The notion of cats possessing multiple lives is a pervasive and enduring myth deeply rooted in various cultures and folklore. The exact number of lives attributed to cats varies, with the most common figures being seven and nine. This belief stems from ancient times and has been perpetuated through literature, art, and popular culture. To understand the origins and significance of this myth, it is essential to delve into historical and cultural perspectives.
The idea of cats having seven lives is particularly prevalent in Western cultures. This belief can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where cats were revered and often associated with deities. The ancient Egyptians held cats in high regard, believing that they possessed magical and protective qualities. The number seven holds symbolic significance in many cultures and is often associated with luck and mysticism. For instance, in ancient Babylonian culture, the number seven was considered sacred, and this influence may have contributed to the belief that cats have seven lives.
In contrast, the belief that cats have nine lives is more commonly found in folklore and literature. This variation can be attributed to the influence of medieval European folklore, where the number nine was often associated with magic and the supernatural. The nine lives myth gained prominence through various literary works, including the famous nursery rhyme "Hey Diddle Diddle," which mentions a cat jumping over the moon. This rhyme, along with other folktales, helped to solidify the idea that cats possess an extraordinary number of lives.
The myth of cats having multiple lives is not limited to Western cultures. In Japan, for example, the belief in cats having nine lives is also present. This is reflected in the popular folklore of the "bakeneko," a supernatural cat that can shape-shift and possess multiple lives. Similarly, in Norse mythology, the goddess Freya is often depicted with cats, and their association with magic and mystery may have contributed to the belief in their multiple lives.
The enduring appeal of this myth can be attributed to several factors. Cats are known for their agility, grace, and ability to land on their feet, which has led to the perception that they possess an uncanny ability to survive falls and other perils. This physical prowess, combined with their independent and sometimes mysterious nature, has contributed to the belief that cats are somehow imbued with a supernatural resilience.
Moreover, the myth of cats having multiple lives has been reinforced through popular culture. From cartoons and children's stories to more recent movies and television shows, the idea of cats possessing extraordinary abilities has been repeatedly portrayed. These representations have helped to perpetuate the myth and keep it alive in modern times.
In conclusion, the belief that cats have seven or nine lives is a rich and complex myth that has been shaped by various cultural and historical influences. Whether rooted in ancient Egyptian reverence, medieval European folklore, or Japanese and Norse mythology, the idea of cats possessing multiple lives continues to captivate the human imagination. This enduring belief is a testament to the enduring fascination and mystique that cats hold in human culture.