Hagiography of the Ninth Courtier of Nine Wells in Four Palaces – Mother Goddess Religion

The Ninth Courtier of Nine Wells holds a significant place as the ninth goddess among the revered Holy Courtiers of the Four Palaces. Her divine assistance is attributed to both the First Mother Goddess of Heaven (the Mother Goddess of Limitless Heavens) and, according to some sources, the Second Mother Goddess of Earth (Mother Goddess Liễu Hạnh).

She bears the title of the Ninth Courtier of Nine Wells due to her governance over the nine yin-yang wells in Thanh Hóa province. These are referred to as “yin-yang wells” because they have underground connections to a river leading to the sea. In Eastern medicine, the point where river water meets well water is termed “yin-yang water,” characterized by its clarity and freshness.

The annual celebration of the Ninth Courtier falls on the double-nine day, coinciding with the feast day of the First Mother Goddess. A dedicated court literature hymn commemorates the Ninth Courtier’s divine presence as follows:

“…To the ninety-nine wells, where mystique dwells,

We humbly invite Ninth Courtier, as legend tells.

In Heaven’s grand palace, she shines up high,

Serving Mother Goddess of Limitless Skies.

Under Her mantle, the Earth She extends,

Obeying the Goddess Mother’s call, on grace She depends.

From boundless heavens, their presence we feel,

Approving our prayers, like a celestial seal…”