What is Numerology?

Numerology has long captivated scholars from across the globe. Philosophers and mystics, from the ancient Pythagoreans to the contemporary Kabbalists, have studied the numinous qualities of numbers. While Western numerology boasts a Greek, Hebrew, and Arabic lineage, there are a wide variety of cultures with their own numerological associations. From China to India, and beyond, wherever there are numbers, there are those studying and interpreting numbers!

For the Pythagoreans, operating around the 6th century B.C.E., numbers were symbolic of processes occurring in the natural world. And since the natural world was thought to be a microcosmic reflection of the macrocosmic universe, to understand nature was to understand the divine. The study of numbers, and therefore the application of numerology, was one way to communicate with the cosmos.

Numerology, like astrology, is a language. However, instead of employing planetary angles and archetypes to derive meaning, numerology relies on synchronicity for its transmission. Each number from 0-9 has certain properties. They also have constructive functions or destructive functions, which can color their interpretation. For example, the number 2 is about desire and fulfillment. 2 encourages saying “yes!” to opportunities. If you’re typically a shy or reserved person, saying yes is extremely constructive advice. However, if you’re not using discernment, saying yes can land you in hot water! You can squander your energy on frivolous pursuits or spread yourself too thin.

Numbers open a dialogue, they do not force our hand. Therefore, numerology always goes arm-in-arm with free will. We always have a choice. In fact, choice is an essential component of utilizing numerology effectively. Numerology invites us to be curious. It asks us to question why a number keeps showing up in our life. And once a number has made itself known, what do we do with it?

Before you can change your reality, you must become present! The past is gone. The future hasn’t yet arrived. You can only interact with the universe from the here and now. In a way, how numerology helps us to have a conversation with the universe is its efficacy; it mentally primes us by demanding that we pay attention. You can’t receive messages from the beyond if you’re on autopilot! By watching for clues, and making your own connections, the universe will begin to speak to you.

Numerology depends on several factors: presence (being here now), significance (knowing how to interpret a number), and receptivity. Receptivity is a fancy way of saying that you are open to enchantment. Seeing numbers for their symbolic wisdom is one way of affirming that your life is magical! Beneath the monotony of daily routines and exchanges, there is a mystical order at work that is waiting to be perceived. Simply noticing a number cropping up in your life will get your brain working in a different way. You’ll quit going through the motions. Your imagination will create space for surprise. But when you start using the number, following its synchronistic instructions to shift how you engage in the world — that’s when life gets really interesting!