2025 and the 9 Universal Year: Where did 2024 and the 8 Universal Year Drop Us Off?
Well, it's finally here. The end of 2024 is upon us, and we stand on the precipice of another new year. I can't speak for all of you, but every passing year seems to fly by faster than the last. Also, time has become a strangely more indefinable concept since the start of the 2020s.
Yet, here we are, wrapping up yet another year and staring into an uncertain new year. Whether you are feeling trepidation or anticipation, 2025 is coming regardless, and it would be wise for us to remember to feel that ground under our feet so we can face it head-on with our best foot forward.
In case you need a reminder, or if this is your first time here, let's chat briefly about the concept and calculation of the Universal Year.
The Universal Year is the vibe under which the entire planet operates throughout the calendar year. It differs from the Personal Year, which we experience personally. Universal Years point to themes, lessons, challenges, and opportunities unfolding nationally and internationally. They dominate our news headlines and social media posts. Knowing this number helps you recognize what you see, giving you a more informed viewpoint.
TO BE CLEAR: The themes I'm discussing today can happen under any numerological transit- the difference is these themes are more likely to garner widespread attention and high visibility and become major talking points and themes for the current moment. This is why they are essential. Sort of like sea-dwelling mammals who come up to the surface for air- whales can stay underwater for prolonged periods. They clearly exist; we know they’re there, they have their own lives and worlds, but we pay the most attention to them when they come up to the surface for air. The Universal Year, the Personal Year, and all numerology transits are similar.
We calculate the Universal Year using numerology's primary formula: addition and, if needed, further addition and reduction to a single number.
2+0+2+4 = 8.
2+0+2+5 = 9.
To paraphrase Sherlock Holmes, it's elementary. Quite literally.
With these basics in our back pockets, let's briefly discuss what we've just experienced: 2024 and the 8th Universal Year.
Some words that describe the energy of the 8 include:
Authority
Executive Ability
Mental Acuity
Domination
Command
Strength
Mastery
Clout
Having the Upper Hand
Ascendency to Power
Success
Cautious and conventional thinking
As I've said before, there is no such thing as "good" or "bad" numbers. How we experience and process their vibration through our personal and subjective filters determines whether the number feels good or bad. The numbers themselves are neutral. Therefore, to achieve a more balanced and holistic perspective, it's better to frame these descriptive words with the condition of "Lessons about."
For example, 8 vibrations bring lessons about power:
What it feels like to hold power
What power feels like when it's held over you
What makes you feel powerful
What causes you to feel people have power over you
What do you value about power?
Recognizing the abuse of power in yourself and others
How you define the word "power" itself
8s bring lessons about authority:
How you respond to authority
What it takes for you to respect authority
How it feels when authority is held over you
What makes you feel you possess personal and professional authority
Your attitudes and behaviors regarding your own sense of authority
Recognizing the abuse of authority
Standing up to authority
Lessons about control:
In what circumstances do you wish to have control
How do you feel when control is held over you? Is there any situation in which you think it is acceptable, or is it unacceptable full-stop?
What does it feel like to hold control over others?
How do people feel about you holding control over them?
How to wield control responsibly
Recognizing the abuse of control
Lessons about success:
How do you define success? What does success look like to you?
How does it feel to succeed?
How does it feel to watch others succeed ahead of you?
How do you handle success? Do you embrace it, or are you prone to self-sabotage?
How do other people handle success?
Lessons about money:
How can you get more money?
Do you handle money responsibly?
Are you prepared for an increase in expenditures? Do you have savings?
How does it feel to have more money than others?
How does it feel when others have more money than you?
What does money itself represent to you?
I hope this illustrates the power of framing these descriptive words as "Lessons about." It keeps the words themselves neutral, yet they become dynamic and actionable.
Because this is the Universal Year, all the questions I've just posed apply to mass consciousness. This is the worldwide equivalent of reading the room.
8s bring out a strong drive to climb the ladder of success. Hard work = high expectations. It imbues an aura of dominance, power, proficiency, and expertise. The 8 is the person at the top of the power structure. It favors those who model strength, accomplishment, stability, prosperity, and capability. It spotlights those who wield command and create empires. This number is commonly associated with upper management- leaders of executive committees, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the CEO, the CIO, and the CFO. The 8 is the big boss in charge, and that role is taken quite seriously.
8 falls on the mental plane, so it values mental fortitude, acumen, and good judgment. It favors direct and blunt speech. It doles out figures and facts from wanting to always be right. 8 vibrations bring out the desire to be respected. In the wrong hands, it can reach the point of demanding respect, whether it is warranted or not. 8s connect with conserving resources and upholding existing power structures. As a result, this can enhance the need to control people and surroundings to maintain the status quo.
The 8 fixates on finances: more money coming in, money going out. More money in. More money out. Who are the haves and have-nots? Who gets the cash? How are they getting it? Where is the money going? How do we protect those financial resources? Do the rich keep getting richer, and the poor keep getting poorer?
8 vibrations favor those who project confidence and ambition. Historically speaking, it's more commonly associated with masculine energy and qualities. Therefore, it's often tied to the idea of the "Strong Man," highlighting those who embody this image. (Although, it must be said: there is a robust amount of feminine 8 energy in the world).
So, what are some of the events from 2024 in which we can see these lessons and how they came to the surface?
Full disclosure here: I am originally from the United States and have a decidedly American perspective, for which I apologize in advance. That said, I do try to see things beyond my country of origin. Living in Europe for the last two years has helped me further expand my global viewpoint, for which I am very grateful.
That said, here are a few events I see that align with the 8 Universal Year:
The persistent rumors of Boeing and OpenAI Whistleblowers being found dead. Whistleblowers stand up to corporate authority, and we know corporate authority usually doesn't respond favorably to that. This isn't about whether the rumors are true; this is about the dynamic. And it fits.
The rise of right-leaning governments and movements across the globe. The desire to keep, preserve, and enshrine the pre-existing status quo that historically benefits men. Remember: 8s are commonly associated with masculine energy. 8s also climb the ladder of success to keep the structure intact, with them at the top.
The controversy in New Zealand over the proposed Treaty Principles Bill and how it would affect the Treaty of Waitangi, a document signed in 1840 by the colonial British and Māori chiefs, intended to enshrine co-governance between Indigenous and non-Indigenous New Zealanders. The new right-wing majority proposed the bill, sparking long-simmering ill feelings and disputes about the country's balance of power and control regarding the Māori population.
The outcome of the US election. President-elect Trump has always valued and projected the image of the Strong Man. He spent decades building his reputation as a wealthy and successful businessman. The masses were unhappy about the economy. The 8 vibration reigned supreme, so it makes sense that he won. Because the impact of this election will have ripple effects all over the globe, this is an excellent example of a Universal Year's impact worldwide.
The rise of Elon Musk. This 8 Universal Year has put an exceptionally bright spotlight on his ascendency to power. He's a billionaire whose assets have skyrocketed even further in 2024. He holds tight control over his businesses and employees- after all, he famously told remaining Twitter staff he expected them to work 80 hours per week. Now, his power over his companies has crossed over into the realm of government, where he will now hold power and control over vastly more people. He is an incredibly potent example of thriving under an 8 vibration.
Two words: Luigi Mangione. The shooting of a United Healthcare CEO and the widespread sympathy for the shooter has been one hell of a thing to watch as it unfolds. It is even wilder when you remember the lessons an 8 can bring. Let's recap a few of the questions I proposed earlier:
How does it feel to have more money than others?
How does it feel when others have more money than you?
How do you feel when control is held over you?
How do people feel about you holding control over them?
How does it feel when authority is held over you?
The timing of this event couldn't have been more on the nose. Just wow.
Now, the 8 has logged out, and the 9 has entered the chat. The times, they are a-changin'.
So, let's talk about what the 9 represents.
Some words that describe the energy of the 9 include:
Compassion
Humanity
Dynamism
Evolvement
Maturity
Universal Love
Philosophy
Unity
Broad-mindedness
Selflessness
The Greater Good
Power to the People
Making an Impact
Endings
Completions
Letting Go
Gullibility
Drama
Idealism
Being unrealistic
Now, let's couch these descriptors with the words: "Lessons about."
Lessons about compassion:
How does it feel to give compassion?
How does it feel to receive compassion?
In what circumstances do you feel compassion is warranted? Or not?
Who do you feel deserves compassion? Who does not?
What happens to you and others in the absence of compassion?
Lessons about selflessness and the greater good:
In what situations do you place others ahead of yourself?
In what situations have people placed you ahead of themselves?
What is best for the whole versus what is best for us? Do they align, or do they diverge?
Do we care about the systemic problems of people we don't personally know?
Are we willing to sacrifice on a personal level for the good of the collective?
How do we respond to activism and social movements for the masses?
Lessons about letting go:
How do we respond when something comes to an end? Do we give up and grieve? Do we fight against change?
What needs to come to an end? What doesn't work anymore?
Do we understand why some things have run their course or coming to an end? Do we have the foresight to see the big picture? Are we able to clearly see how we've gotten here? What is the takeaway lesson? What have we learned? How do we take what we've learned and impart it to others?
Lessons about being broad-minded:
How does it feel to be broad-minded?
How does it feel to be around broad-minded people?
Conversely, how does the absence of broad-mindedness feel?
When is it appropriate to be broad-minded? When is it not?
Do we have the capacity to consider the viewpoints, perspectives, and feedback of those who are entirely different from us? Can we use this open-mindedness to build bridges, heal divides, and reunify the masses?
Lessons about power to the people:
What parts of the collective feel powerful or powerless? And what will they do with that feeling?
How do the people come together to feel powerful?
Let's combine some of these keywords:
What kind of impacts are being made on the masses? Are they for the greater good? Are the motivations behind them selflessness, or on the flip side, are they selfish?
What lessons might the collective learn about being gullible and unrealistic?
How can idealism mix with wisdom and maturity to bring impactful change for the greater good?
In cycles of time, the numbers run 1 through 9. Days, months, and years follow the same tried-and-true cycle: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, wash, rinse, repeat. What is begun during a 1 vibration remains in play until the following 9 has run its course.
Let's look at the numbers from the perspective of gardening to illustrate the point:
During the 1 vibration, the decision to plant is made. The ground is newly thawed. The seeds are picked out, and the garden is mapped. Action is taken; every little seedling is in its proper place, ready to grow and set up for success.
Once the 9 vibration is reached, the last crops from the 1 give out. It's time to harvest what's left and donate it to a food bank. Then, the soil is tilled and left to rest until the following growing season returns. Looking back over the growing season, one sees the full culmination of all the planning and hard work. The gardener gives thanks for what they've learned and received along the way. There's a wistfulness that it's come to an end.
In other words, whatever is begun in the 1 Year lasts through to the end of the following 9 Year. Our last 1 Universal Year was 2017. What global themes do you notice that began during that time? How do you see them playing out now that we are rolling into 2025 and its 9-year-long culmination? What was started in 2017 is poised to reach its fulfillment, or hints at its end, in 2025.
This is quite the contrast from the 8 we just completed.
In numerology, whenever a 9 is added to another number, the 9 "harmonizes" with the other number, folding itself back into the other. For example, 3 + 9 = 12. The 12 gets reduced (1 + 2) and equals a 3 once again. This gives the 9 the vibe of "You before me." "I am you, you are me, and we are one." The 9 carries the power of all the previous 8 numbers; therefore, it naturally blends into and defaults to the other number.
The 9 is one of the Spiritual numbers. It represents expanded consciousness, higher teachings, higher learning, transcendence, and spiritual ascendency. It represents God, the Universe itself, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. It's big stuff. As a result, it can be dramatic- after all, one does not spiritually grow and mature without passing some tests first. These tests aren't subtle; they often feel like a cosmic 2x4 upside the head. In other words, most major shifts and changes come as crises. Allegedly, Pythagoras once called the 9 "Good and Evil." This speaks to the vast potential outreach the 9 possesses. Will the 9 choose the development and expression for the greater good? Or will that accessibility and awareness be used for manipulative purposes?
Remember, we are talking about the Universal Year. We are walking into the proverbial arena and feeling the mood of the crowd. The crowd is going to be given some changes and adjustments. We will be asked to think of things outside ourselves and beyond us mere mortals. There will be endings this year, some of which may be significant.
So, what might this mean for us?
As always, I can only surmise based on current trends. I'm not gazing into a crystal ball here, but I have some thoughts. FYI- Common wisdom says you should write about what you know, so as an American, that is what I must do here. Apologies in advance to our friends from other countries- I will keep trying to evolve my viewpoint.
The 9 rules humanitarianism. It also rules crises. Be prepared for humanitarian crises of all kinds to take center stage. I hope this does not come to pass, but the conditions are ripe for it.
The Mangione shooting is a flashpoint. The numbers favor more of these to come. Who will win: The system (8) or the consumers (9)? During a 9, with its "power to the people" energy, the arc bends toward the masses. Will he receive an empathetic jury? And how will his journey through the justice system affect the masses? Systems are notoriously challenging to topple, but in 2025, the people are favored. They have a golden window of opportunity to galvanize themselves into action. Will they take it?
Remember, the 9 emphasizes the interconnectedness of all. It represents the entire world and depicts looking beyond one's borders to see the whole. One revolutionary movement could spark dozens around the globe. Our interconnectedness will dramatically be on display, for better or worse.
Anti-immigration isn't a uniquely American concept. As an immigrant living abroad, I can personally confirm. Since immigration is an international issue, I wouldn't be surprised to see some ripple effect mentality spreading from continent to continent and back again. For example, in the United States, President-Elect Trump has promised swift rounds of instant and sweeping deportations and revoking of birthright citizenships. Will other countries rally or retaliate to implement similar actions? (This immigrant is hoping not.)
The word "Oligarchy" is flying around a lot these days. Oligarchy is defined as a small group of people having control of a country, organization, or institution. Oligarchy is an 8 thing. Again, power to the people is a 9 thing. Decisions will be handed down and heavily affect the masses, but the people will pay close attention. As I write this, I am reminded of the song "Do You Hear the People Sing" from Les Miserables. If you are a history buff, you already know the lessons of the French Revolution are beating ever stronger, reverberating through the floorboards.
Lastly, what ends in 2025 clears the way for a new 1 Universal Year in 2026. This gives me the vibe that next year will be pretty reactionary to this one: new factions and ideas emerging and new players in the game. Looking into the future of 2025 is a dizzying prospect, but there is one thing I'm sure of: when we enter 2026, the world will likely be a noticeably different place.
So, what do we do with this information?
What blesses others will bless us in turn. Think beyond yourself. Put yourself in others' shoes. How do they fit? If they don't, how can they be altered to fit better? Don't wait until something affects you to see the problem exists in the first place. What comes for some at first eventually comes for all. Stay vigilant.
Compassion is in mighty damn short supply these days, but it's precisely what the 9 will demand of us. This year, empathy and compassion are the way to the other side. We can't get around that. It's not just about us this year- it's about all of us.
Be teachable. Acknowledge that despite our personal and collective progress, no one knows everything, and there is still so much to learn. Stay open and curious. Listen to people who are different. Try to imagine and understand how their life’s journey has brought them to this moment in time.
Check out what news outlets from other countries are discussing. What are they focused on? What are their perspectives, concerns, and problems? Look beyond your own borders. Expand your mindset.
Be prepared for some norms to come to an end. In every ending lies the seeds of new beginnings. Until they become visible, hold faith in this inevitable pattern of life.
Pay attention to the trends of 2025 with the buzzwords I presented. Again, frame them as "Lessons about." Using this formula, you stand a good chance of interpreting what lessons we are supposed to be learning as a whole, and you can use that information to change your little corner of the world for the better. To quote Jana Stanfield: "I cannot do all the good that the world needs, but the world needs all the good that I can give."
So, my friends, here we go. Let's link arms and walk through 2025 together. This is how we will succeed.
* Quotes that fit the 9 Year vibe
"Always recognize that human individuals are ends, and do not use them as means to your end."
– Immanuel Kant
"Our humanity is a poor thing, except for the divinity that stirs within us."
– Francis Bacon
"Sometimes pain is for the greater good."
– Veronica Roth
"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive."
– Dalai Lama XIV
"You can blow out a candle, but you can't blow out a fire.
Once the flames begin to catch, the wind will blow it higher."
– Peter Gabriel
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