Numerology is an ancient practice that studies the mystical relationship between numbers and life events. For thousands of years, different cultures have believed that numbers possess unique energetic vibrations that can influence our destiny, personality, and important decisions. This practice is based on the idea that everything in the universe can be reduced to simple numbers from 1 to 9, plus the master numbers 11, 22, and 33. Each number has specific characteristics and energetic vibrations that can reveal information about natural personality, life purpose, relationships, challenges, opportunities, and favorable moments for important decisions.
The theory behind numerology is based on the Pythagorean idea that all things can be expressed in numerical terms because they are ultimately reducible to numbers. Using a method analogous to that of the Greek and Hebrew alphabets, modern numerology attaches a series of digits to an inquirer’s name and date of birth and from these purports to divine the person’s true nature and prospects. Numerology and numerological divination were popular among early mathematicians, such as Pythagoras, but are no longer considered part of mathematics and are regarded as pseudomathematics by modern scientists. This is similar to the historical development of astronomy out of astrology, and chemistry from alchemy.
Historical Origins and Development
Numerology has ancient roots, with traces found in civilizations like Babylon, Egypt, China, and Greece. One of the most influential figures in numerology was the Greek philosopher Pythagoras, who believed that numbers were the fundamental building blocks of the universe. His theories formed the basis of Pythagorean numerology, which is widely used today. The practice of gematria, assigning numerical values to words and names and imputing those values with religious meaning, dates back to antiquity. An Assyrian inscription from the 8th century BCE, commissioned by Sargon II, declares, "the king built the wall of Khorsabad 16,283 cubits long to correspond with the numerical value of his name." Rabbinic literature used gematria to interpret passages in the Hebrew Bible.
The practice of using alphabetic letters to represent numbers developed in the Greek city of Miletus and is thus known as the Milesian system. Ruth A. Drayer's book, Numerology, The Power in Numbers (Square One Publishers) says that around the turn of the century (from 1800 to 1900 A.D.) Mrs. L. Dow Balliett combined Pythagoras' work with Biblical reference. Then on Oct 23, 1972, Balliett's student, Dr. Juno Jordan, changed Numerology further and helped it to become the system known today under the title "Pythagorean."
Core Numbers in Numerology
The most important numbers in numerology are known as core numbers. These numbers are derived from a person’s birthdate and full birth name and are used to reveal patterns and meanings about an individual's life.
Life Path Number
The Life Path Number is based on the birth date and represents the main path a person will travel in this life. It indicates the important lessons that must be learned and the challenges that will be faced to evolve. This number is considered one of the most important numbers and represents the individual’s purpose in life and key personality traits.
Destiny Number (Expression Number)
The Destiny Number, also known as the Expression Number, is calculated using the full name at birth. It reveals talents, abilities, and life’s purpose. This number shows who a person is in essence and where they are heading.
Personality Number
The Personality Number is calculated with the consonants of a person's name. It reveals how others perceive that person and the first impression they project to the world. This number indicates how a person presents themselves to the world.
Soul Urge Number (Heart’s Desire Number)
The Soul Urge Number, also called the Heart’s Desire Number, is derived from the vowels in a person’s name. It uncovers inner desires and motivations.
Attitude Number
The Attitude Number is calculated using the birthday number and birth month number. This number indicates the person’s attitude towards himself and others.
Birth Number
The Birth Number is calculated from the Birth Day Number and reveals the general behavior of the person.
Number Symbolism and Definitions
Each number is associated with specific characteristics and energies. While there are no set definitions for the meaning of specific digits, common examples include:
- 0: Everything or absoluteness. All
- 1: Individual. Aggressor. Yang.
- 2: Balance. Union. Receptive. Yin.
- 3: Communication/interaction. Neutrality.
- 4: Creation.
- 5: Action. Restlessness.
- 6: Reaction/flux. Responsibility.
- 7: Thought/consciousness.
- 8: Power/sacrifice.
- 9: Highest level of change.
- 10: Rebirth.
Additionally, specific number combinations have been associated with particular meanings. For example, the number 888 is interpreted as three times the prosperity, while 1314 represents whole lifetime or existence.
Alphabetic Systems
There are many numerology systems which assign numerical value to the letters of an alphabet. Examples include the Abjad numerals in Arabic, the Hebrew numerals, Armenian numerals, and Greek numerals. These systems allow for the calculation of numbers from names and words, forming the basis for name analysis in numerology.
Relationships with Other Practices
Numerology and Astrology
Some astrologers believe that each number from 0 to 9 is ruled by a celestial body in our solar system, creating a connection between numerical vibrations and planetary influences.
Numerology and Alchemy
Many alchemical theories were closely related to numerology. Persian alchemist Jabir ibn Hayyan, inventor of many chemical processes still used today, framed his experiments in an elaborate numerology based on the names of substances in the Arabic language.
"Numerology" in Science
The term "numerology" is sometimes used in scientific contexts in a colloquial sense. Scientific theories are sometimes labeled "numerology" if their primary inspiration appears to be mathematical rather than scientific. This colloquial use of the term is quite common within the scientific community and it is mostly used to dismiss a theory as questionable science.
The best known example of "numerology" in science involves the coincidental resemblance of certain large numbers that intrigued such eminent men as mathematical physicist Paul Dirac, mathematician Hermann Weyl and astronomer Arthur Stanley Eddington. These numerical co-incidences refer to such quantities as the ratio of the age of the universe to the atomic unit of time, the number of electrons in the universe, and the difference in strengths between gravity and the electric force for the electron and proton.
Applications and Interpretation
Numerology studies how numbers can reveal information about: - Natural personality - Innate traits and way of being - Life purpose - The mission one came to fulfill - Relationships - Compatibility with other people - Challenges and opportunities - Obstacles and potentials - Favorable moments - Ideal timing for important decisions
The practice involves assigning numerical values to letters and dates, which are then analyzed to reveal patterns and meanings. Different cultures and traditions have assigned specific meanings to numbers, often linking them to divine principles, cosmic forces, or natural patterns.
Modern Practice
In contemporary practice, numerology continues to be used as a tool for self-discovery and guidance. While it is no longer considered part of mathematics by modern scientists, it maintains its status as a popular pseudomathematical practice for those seeking insight into personality traits, life paths, and potential future developments. The system known today as Pythagorean numerology represents the culmination of centuries of development, combining ancient wisdom with modern interpretation methods.
The practice remains widespread, with practitioners using various calculation methods to derive meaningful insights from names and birth dates. Whether viewed as a spiritual practice, a psychological tool, or a form of divination, numerology continues to attract those interested in exploring the potential connections between numbers and human experience.
Conclusion
Numerology represents a fascinating intersection of mathematics, mysticism, and cultural tradition. From its ancient origins in Babylonian and Egyptian civilizations to its refinement by Greek philosophers like Pythagoras, the practice has evolved into various systems that assign meaning to numbers derived from names and birth dates. While modern science regards it as pseudomathematics, numerology maintains its appeal as a tool for self-exploration and understanding the potential influences of numerical vibrations on human life. Through the calculation of core numbers such as Life Path, Destiny, and Personality numbers, practitioners seek to uncover insights about character, purpose, and potential life directions, continuing a tradition that has spanned millennia across diverse cultures.