The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Numbers
The Power of Symbols

ORIGINS

As discussed in the numerology entry in Chapter 7, numbers can be used for much more than arithmetic. They have many New Age applications, from divination to healing. One concept in the study of numbers that relates to the New Age realm is infinity—space, time, or a quantity with no limit—which is prominent in the areas of both theology and philosophy. As symbols, numbers hold great importance in various religious, cultural, and other traditions.

HISTORY/LORE

Tallying is considered the first abstract numerical system. Place value systems came next, such as the Mesopotamian base 60 system (c. 3400 B.C.E.) and the Egyptian base 10 system (c. 3100 B.C.E.). One of the most important historical figures in relation to numbers is the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras (c. 570—c. 495 B.C.E.), who believed that numbers were the basis of the entire universe. A school of philosophy based on his beliefs called Pythagoreanism emerged in the fifth century B.C.E. Certain numbers have special significance in different cultures. For example, while the ancient Egyptians considered thirteen a lucky number, in the modern-day Western world, this number is considered so unlucky that there is a phobia associated with it (triskaidekaphobia).

USES

As previously mentioned, numerology is one popular New Age use of numbers (see the numerology entry in Chapter 7). Another is using numbers in magical practices. There are many spells and rituals that incorporate numbers, based on the belief that each number has its own magic properties. You might choose to use a certain number of candles in a spell, or begin a ritual on a certain day of the month. Birth numbers and personal lucky numbers are especially good for this.