Deities and Faith
Does the nine in “Nine Dragon Princes” necessarily count nine individuals?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Not necessarily. Here, ‘Nine Dragon Princes’ is explained through yin and yang symbolism, rather than treating nine solely as a headcount. First understand the number’s meaning within this account, instead of immediately arranging nine figures and deciding which one you are.
In that explanation, nine was connected with heaven and yang energy, while six was used for Kun and yin energy. Within this context, nine does more than count nine and six does more than count six. Consider what a number expresses on that occasion. We cannot assign the same meaning to every appearance of nine or six everywhere.
Returning to practice, calling yourself a deity’s child still requires understanding that faith connection and learning the deity’s virtues. Rather than compare rankings and status, examine whether your words and actions fulfil what is taught. These titles should help people understand faith, rather than leave them satisfied with an impressive name.