The saying "Nine lifetimes of good deeds for one lifetime as a cat" originates from some traditional Chinese culture and beliefs. In traditional Chinese culture, it is believed that a person must cultivate good deeds for nine lifetimes to be reborn as a cat. The hardships, complexities, and various probabilities involved make us understand how difficult it is to be "a cat in one lifetime."
One saying goes that a highly virtuous monk must reincarnate nine times before finally becoming a cat in his last life. This is to shed all worldly desires, fulfill all human desires, cultivate a fighting spirit that monks cannot possess, comprehend the concepts of existence and non-existence that monks cannot comprehend, witness the tenacity of life, participate in the struggle between good and evil, and ultimately achieve Nirvana.
Another explanation is that cats hold a special place and significance in people's hearts. Cats are generally considered to be spiritual beings, capable of warding off evil and bringing good fortune. This special status and significance of cats is believed to be attainable only through nine lifetimes of good deeds.
