The provided source material focuses exclusively on Cheiro's Book of Numbers, a text dedicated to the study of Chaldean Numerology. This system, attributed to the ancient Chaldeans, offers a method for understanding the occult significance of numbers and their influence on human life. The source data, primarily consisting of book descriptions and reader reviews, outlines the fundamental principles of this numerological system, the background of the author Cheiro (Count Louis Hamon), and the varied reception of his published work.
Chaldean Numerology Principles
According to the source material, the system of numerology explained by Cheiro is characterized by its simplicity and lack of intricate mathematical calculations. It is presented as a method to determine lucky numbers, the number value of names, and propitious times for important decisions.
- The Chaldean Alphabet: A distinct feature of this system is the use of the original Chaldean alphabet. Unlike more common systems, the alphabet used by Cheiro assigns numerical values to letters based on ancient Chaldean origins.
- The Number 9: A significant rule in this system is the exclusion of the number 9 from the numerical values assigned to letters. The source material explains that the Chaldeans considered the number 9 to be the number of God. Therefore, it is not assigned to any letter but holds a unique spiritual status.
- Compound Numbers: The book places special emphasis on compound numbers (numbers with two or more digits). A review in the source material highlights that the explanations of compound numbers are "especially valuable," suggesting they offer deeper insights than single-digit numbers.
- Scope of Application: The system is described as a tool for fortune telling and determining the "number value of one's name and place of living." It aims to help individuals understand their "lucky or important numbers" and navigate "propitious times for important transactions and decisions."
Background of Cheiro
The source material identifies the author as Count Louis Hamon, better known by the pseudonym "Cheiro." He is described as a "master seer," a palmist, numerologist, and astrologer regarded as "the most successful" in his fields.
- Initiation and Study: Cheiro's journey into the occult arts began in India. The source states he was "seriously initiated into the art of fortune telling" when he lived with the Joshi family in Bombay (now Mumbai). He is credited with being one of the first to translate and interpret Hindu works on palmistry into English.
- Original Sources: A review claims that Cheiro traveled to where original ancient texts were kept and, after gaining the confidence of their keepers, made his own interpretations. This suggests his work is derived directly from ancient source material rather than secondary interpretations.
Reception and Critique of the Text
The provided source data includes numerous reviews and descriptions that offer insight into the reception of Cheiro's Book of Numbers. The feedback is mixed, touching on the book's content, accuracy, and physical quality.
- Positive Reception: Many reviewers consider the book to be the "best numerology book" and the "best and the most original Chaldean Numerology book" available. It is praised for being "deep," "insightful," and "well worth devouring" for those interested in classic numerology. One reviewer notes that the information is valuable for understanding the effects of the fadic number, particularly for individuals born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th of any month.
- Criticism of Accuracy: Contrasting views on the book's accuracy are present. One reviewer, claiming over 40 years of study in numerology, states that Cheiro's calculations for "soul urge and destiny number are all wrong" and that they were "off" when applied personally. This suggests a potential discrepancy between Cheiro's system and other numerological methods.
- Criticism of Quality: Several reviews point out issues with the physical book, mentioning "a lot of misspellings," "duplicate pages," and "spelling and grammatical errors." One review describes the book as "abridged bits of information" and suggests that information may be missing from that particular version.
- Modern Context: A reviewer suggests that while the information is derived from a period of omens and fatalism, it needs to be taken in a "modern context." They note that Cheiro gives both "the good and the bad," which is necessary to understand the "duality of numbers."
Conclusion
Cheiro's Book of Numbers presents the Chaldean system of numerology, a method focused on the occult significance of numbers derived from ancient Chaldean origins. The system is defined by its unique alphabet, the exclusion of the number 9 from letter values, and its focus on compound numbers. While the author, Cheiro, is presented as a credible figure with direct ties to ancient Indian and Chaldean sources, the reception of the book itself is varied. Readers have praised it as a foundational and insightful text on classic numerology, while others have criticized it for potential inaccuracies in calculations and poor physical editing. The available material establishes the book as a significant, though debated, resource for those exploring Chaldean numerology.