Numerology and the meaning of numbers
Have you ever wondered what meanings may lurk beneath a number, perhaps one that keeps popping up in your life? Since time immemorial, humanity has wondered about the nature of number and how it relates to life. Numerologists believe that there are nine unique archetypes that correspond to nine cycles of development: the numbers 1 through 9. These numbers are also called Central Numbers or Digital Root Numbers. Since composite numbers are simply combinations of these central 9 numbers, understanding the meaning of a number is based on a thorough examination of these roots. We will now examine the evolution of these root numbers.
We start with the Zero. This is the non-manifest where everything exists in potential. Zero does not contain or is contained by any number. It exists outside of any cycle. When zero is added to any number, it symbolizes the perfection of the meaning of that number. Although 1 is the root of 10, 10 is not strictly synonymous with 1. This is because the addition of zero means a refinement of the influence of 1, in effect leaving the cycle from 1 to 9 and towards a higher order: 10 through 19. When zero is added to a number, it tends to bring a universal responsibility to its root number. It is from this formless perfection that something appears.
Coming out of the shapeless realm of Zero is something that is complete, unified, and independent of Zero. Our symbol for Number one, 1, is a pillar. A phallic shape. The first is a masculine energy that acts on its own and pioneers the new, original and bursting with energy. This is the irreducible fact of consciousness, the eternal I AM.
Between zero and one, all other numbers have their being. As soon as the One appears, it is placed in relation Zero not manifest. For the One to be One, it must be independent of something, therefore the emergence of The number two. The Two provokes a relationship, it contains within itself the strength of the One but with a humility reflected in its character. The symbol itself, 2, reveals a man in prayer bowing to a greater power (1).
Once we recognize the emergence of the self and our relationship with something ‘higher’ (be it God, nature, principle or idea) we feel the need to express this understanding. The number three takes us to the social sphere. From the unmanifest zero, 0, emerges an independent form, 1, which leads us to an essential relation, 2, which we need to express in some way, 3. The character of Three, 3, reflects this openness in its form. It is open at the top, receiving the higher influences, and open at the bottom, expressing those influences to others.
If what we express has lasting value, we must work to create a solid foundation: the Four. Many projects fail before reaching this point, reaching Three, but never bridging the gap between expressing a higher ideal, 3, and embodying a higher ideal, 4. To maintain its balance, the 4 must close or limit the influence that it is. working with. The number four it takes the ideas expressed by the Three and adds a self-imposed limitation, creating a stable and lasting foundation.
After the discipline of the Four we find the change and the activity of Number five, in effect testing the solidity of our base. The Five, 5, turns around and introduces freedom and adventure. It is open both at the front and at the back. It is a point where decisions must be made and, true to form, those decisions could radically alter the outcome.
The freedom introduced into the Four through the Five brings a new equilibrium symbolized in Number six. Simultaneously it expands the limits of the Fours and places the necessary responsibility on the five. Six, 6, is pregnant with love. It is the number of family and social responsibility. The social responsibilities of Sixes create a need to understand and gain insight, a need to find some way to locate experiences into a meaningful whole.
Number seven questions and seeks answers to the great enigma of life. It is a series of magical and mystical maturity. His character, 7, can be compared to an old man hunched over with age or perhaps, carrying a cane or a lantern that shines its light into the darkness that surrounds him. It is the number of introspection, planning and inner search. Through the control, perception, and planning that arise with the Seven, we realize that we reap what we sow.
The number eight he becomes a dynamic power wielder and the success of the seeds planted from the beginning with the One. His character, 8, reveals a perfect balance between the world of ideas and the world of action. It is closed indicating the power that will make ideas come true.
After the rewards granted by the Eight, we realize that we are reaching the end, The number nine. Facing this ending, the focus shifts from the material to the spiritual. Selfless service and universal ideas become paramount. The character of the Nine, 9, is very similar to the Six, 6. While the Six sends his love to the material world of family and friends, the Nine closes the cycle by returning his love and compassion to higher ideals.
And again we find ourselves before the Zero. We can begin a new cycle, starting once more with One. It is possible that we can continue our effort and elevate the One to the relative perfection of the Ten, learning lessons of a higher order. In any case, we find everything between nothing (0) and something (1).