Spiritual Meaning of Magpies: Why Seeing 9 is a Sign of Love and Protection

If you’re anything like me, you don’t just “see” birds; you notice them. You feel them. I’ve had a long, complicated, and deeply spiritual meaning of magpies journey for years. Most people know the old nursery rhyme, but for some of us, these black-and-white visitors are much more than just garden birds—they are messengers from the universe.

Recently, something incredible happened that made me dive back into the spiritual meaning of magpies. On my first day back dog walking after a lovely Christmas break (shoutout to my brother for kindly walking the dog so I could have a rest!), I saw nine magpies. I even took a video because I couldn’t believe it! Then, today, it happened again. Another nine!

In the world of signs and synchronicities, a repeat like that isn’t a coincidence. It’s a strong sign that something special is manifesting.

Reclaiming the “One for Sorrow” Symbolism

To truly understand the spiritual meaning of magpies, we have to talk about the “One for Sorrow” superstition. For a long time, I lived in fear of seeing a lone magpie.

Years ago, one flew directly across my windscreen while I was heading to my mum’s house. She hadn’t been answering the phone, and when I arrived, I found she’d had a terrible accident. She passed away a week later. After that, seeing a single magpie sent my anxiety into overdrive. I would “hunt and hunt” for a second one just to break the “curse.”

If you’ve ever felt that panic, please know you aren’t alone. But eventually, I decided to take my power back. I decided to change my personal spiritual meaning of magpies. Now, when I see one, I don’t think “sorrow.” I think Protection.

I tell myself: “This is a sign that I am protected by the higher-ups.” This helped me so much. With so many loved ones in the spirit world, I feel like that lone magpie is just a scout sent to tell me I’m safe and watched over.

The Spiritual Meaning of Magpies Rhyme: 1 to 10

When we see these birds, our brains immediately start counting. Whether you call it a nursery rhyme or a divination tool, the numbers matter. Here is the breakdown of the spiritual meaning of magpies from one to ten, featuring my updated version for number one:

1 Magpie: For Protection (Formerly “Sorrow”) – A sign that your guardian angels or late family members are standing close by.
2 Magpies: For Mirth – Signifies laughter, joy, and positive news on the horizon.
3 Magpies: For a Wedding – Symbolises a “union” of ideas, a new partnership, or a commitment.
4 Magpies: For a Birth – Represents the birth of a new idea, project, or a fresh start.
5 Magpies: For Silver – Expect a small financial gain or a “silver lining” to a current problem.
6 Magpies: For Gold – Represents abundance, prosperity, and deep value coming your way.
7 Magpies: For a Secret – Suggests you are coming into inner wisdom or a “secret” of the universe.
8 Magpies: For a Wish – The universe is listening! Make a wish immediately.
9 Magpies: For a Kiss – Symbolises love, romance, or a sweet encounter. (My personal favorite!)
10 Magpies: For a Bird You Must Not Miss – Total clarity. The universe is telling you to pay close attention.

What Does Seeing 9 Magpies Mean Spiritually?

If you’ve seen nine magpies, like I have twice this week, you’re likely wondering about the specific spiritual meaning of magpies when they gather in such a large group.

1. Nine for a Kiss (Romance is Calling!)

The traditional spiritual meaning of magpies when you count nine is “a kiss.” This often symbolises love, romance, or a “sweet encounter.” As I said when I saw them today—I hope he’s handsome! Haha! Whether it’s a new mystery man or a rekindling of affection, nine magpies are a very “lovey” sign.

2. The Numerology of Completion

In numerology, the number 9 represents the end of a cycle. Seeing nine magpies back-to-back suggests that a chapter of your life is closing, making way for something brand new. Since this happened on my first day back at work, I feel it’s a sign that the old energy is gone and a new, romantic, and protected cycle is beginning.

3. Protection from the Spirit World

Magpies are incredibly intelligent. Seeing a large group of them (a “tidings”) is a reminder that you are connected to the spirit world. For me, this is very “woo-woo” but it’s my truth. I have many dead family members, and I feel very protected by them. Nine magpies is like a giant hug from the other side.

How to Handle Magpie Anxiety

If you still struggle with the “One for Sorrow” fear, here is how I shifted my mindset regarding the spiritual meaning of magpies:

The Salute: Many salute a lone magpie and say, “Good morning, Mr. Magpie, how is your lady wife today?”This acknowledges the bird with respect.
The Reframe: Immediately say: “Thank you for protecting me.” Don’t let the fear take root.
The Spiritual Scout: Imagine the magpie is a messenger from your mum or a grandparent. It turns dread into a moment of connection.

Why I Track These Signs

I write these posts—and the ones about Angel Numbers—so I can reference them later. Life moves so fast, and we often forget the little “winks” the universe gives us. By documenting the spiritual meaning of magpies and my encounter with the number nine, I’m holding space for that “kiss” or mystery man to transpire!

Whether you believe in the spiritual world or just think they are beautiful birds, there is no denying that nature speaks to us when we are ready to listen.

Final Thoughts on Magpie Symbolism

Seeing nine magpies twice in one week feels like a huge shift is coming. It’s a sign of love, a sign of completion, and most importantly, a sign that we are never truly walking alone. I am choosing to see them as a sign of good luck and romance.

Have you had a strange encounter with magpies recently? Do you use the same rhyme as me? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear if your “nine for a kiss” ever resulted in a handsome mystery man!

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