Where did the saying cats have nine lives originate? - briefly
The phrase "cats have nine lives" is believed to have originated from the ancient Egyptians, who revered cats and associated them with the divine. This belief was likely influenced by the cats' ability to survive falls and other perilous situations, contributing to the myth of their multiple lives.
Cats' agility and survival skills have long been noted, with the number nine being significant in many cultures. In medieval folklore, cats were often associated with witchcraft, further enhancing their mystical reputation. The idea of nine lives may also stem from the cat's nine primary senses, which include the typical five senses plus balance, temperature, pain, and time perception.
The exact origins of the phrase remain somewhat obscure, but it is clear that cats' remarkable abilities and cultural significance have contributed to this enduring saying. The phrase has been popularized in literature and folklore, becoming a common expression in many languages. The number nine itself is often associated with magic and mystery, adding to the allure of the saying.
Where did the saying cats have nine lives originate? - in detail
The phrase "cats have nine lives" is a well-known idiom that suggests cats are particularly resilient and have an extraordinary ability to survive perils that would be fatal to other animals. The origin of this saying is rooted in a combination of folklore, mythology, and historical observations about feline behavior.
One of the earliest references to cats having multiple lives can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where cats were revered and considered sacred animals. The Egyptians believed that cats had magical properties and were associated with the goddess Bastet, who was often depicted with a cat's head. This divine association may have contributed to the idea that cats were imbued with special protective powers, including the ability to cheat death. However, the specific number nine did not emerge from Egyptian mythology.
The number nine itself has significant symbolic meaning in various cultures. In Norse mythology, the goddess Frigg (also known as Freyja) was associated with cats, and it was believed that she had nine lives. This mythological connection might have influenced the development of the saying in European folklore. Additionally, in many ancient cultures, the number nine was considered mystical and was often associated with completion and renewal. For example, in Christianity, there are nine choirs of angels, and in Buddhism, there are nine levels of hell.
Another possible origin lies in the observational behavior of cats. Cats are known for their agility, flexibility, and ability to land on their feet, a phenomenon known as the "righting reflex." This natural ability to survive falls from significant heights has likely contributed to the belief that cats have multiple lives. Over time, this observation was likely exaggerated into the idea that cats could survive multiple seemingly fatal incidents.
Literary references also contribute to the perpetuation of this belief. In medieval Europe, cats were often depicted in folktales and fables as having extraordinary abilities. For instance, in some European folktales, witches were said to have familiars, often in the form of cats, which were believed to have magical powers, including the ability to cheat death.
Moreover, the number nine itself has been used in various idioms and proverbs to signify a large or indeterminate quantity. For example, the phrase "a cat has nine tails" is used in some cultures to describe something that is impossible or highly unlikely. This usage further reinforces the idea that cats possess extraordinary qualities.
In summary, the saying "cats have nine lives" is a product of ancient beliefs, mythological associations, and observational behaviors of felines. The combination of these factors has led to the widespread acceptance of the idea that cats possess an unusual resilience and ability to survive adversity. This belief has been passed down through generations and continues to be a popular expression in many cultures today.