What is Biblical Numerology?

The Fascinating World of Biblical Numerology:

Unlocking the Hidden Meanings Behind Numbers in the Bible

In the vast tapestry of biblical texts, numbers hold a captivating symbolism and hidden meaning that has intrigued scholars and believers alike throughout the centuries. The world of biblical numerology is a fascinating realm filled with mysterious codes, patterns, and connections that unveil deeper insights into the teachings of the Bible. From the number 7, representing completeness and perfection, to the enigmatic number 666, synonymous with evil, biblical numerology delves into the significance of numbers found in ancient religious texts.

It explores how numbers were used to convey divine messages, provide guidance, and reveal prophetic truths. By understanding the spiritual significance behind each number, we can shed light on the deeper meanings concealed within religious narratives. Delving into biblical numerology not only invites us to unravel the rich symbolism embedded within the texts but also offers a unique perspective on biblical interpretation.

In this article, we will embark on a journey through the mesmerizing world of biblical numerology, uncovering the hidden meanings behind numbers in the Bible. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate web of numerical symbolism that adds depth and richness to the timeless tales we hold dear.

The Significance of Numbers in the Bible

The Bible is a book that contains many symbols, metaphors, and figures of speech. One of the most common and intriguing aspects of biblical symbolism is the use of numbers. Numbers in the Bible can have literal, symbolic, or prophetic meanings. They can also reveal God’s character, attributes, and purposes. Some of the most significant numbers in the Bible are:

• • One: The number one represents the unity and uniqueness of God, who is one Lord (Deuteronomy 6:4). It also signifies the oneness of God’s people, who are called to be one body in Christ (Ephesians 4:4-6).
  • Two: The number two represents the duality and diversity of creation, such as heaven and earth, light and darkness, male and female, etc. It also signifies the establishment of a witness or a covenant, as two or three witnesses are required to confirm a matter (Deuteronomy 19:15; Matthew 18:16).
  • Three: The number three represents the triune nature of God, who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). It also signifies completeness, perfection, and resurrection, as Jesus rose from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:4).
  • Four: The number four represents the four corners of the earth, or the universality and diversity of God’s creation (Isaiah 11:12; Revelation 7:1). It also signifies the four seasons, the four winds, and the four living creatures that surround God’s throne (Genesis 1:14; Daniel 7:2; Revelation 4:6).
  • Five: The number five represents grace, favour, and blessing, as God’s grace is abundant and sufficient for us (2 Corinthians 12:9). It also signifies human weakness and dependence on God, as we have five senses, five fingers, and five toes (Psalm 103:14).
  • Six: The number six represents human imperfection, sinfulness, and rebellion, as man was created on the sixth day and fell short of God’s glory (Genesis 1:31; Romans 3:23). It also signifies the antichrist and his followers, who will have the mark of the beast with the number 666 (Revelation 13:18).
  • Seven: The number seven represents divine perfection, completeness, and rest, as God finished his work of creation and rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2). It also signifies God’s covenant, promise, and faithfulness, as he swore by himself with sevenfold oaths (Genesis 22:16; Psalm 89:34; Hebrews 6:13-14).
  • Eight: The number eight represents new beginnings, regeneration, and renewal, as God made a new covenant with Noah and his family after the flood (Genesis 9:1). It also signifies circumcision and baptism, which are signs of entering into a new relationship with God (Genesis 17:12; Colossians 2:11-12).
  • Nine: The number nine represents fruitfulness, multiplication, and harvest, as God blessed Abraham and Sarah with a son when they were ninety years old (Genesis 17:17; 21:5). It also signifies the fruit of the Spirit and the gifts of the Spirit, which are nine in number (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:8-10).
  • Ten: The number ten represents completeness, order, and authority, as God gave Moses the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai (Exodus 20:1-17). It also signifies testing, trial, and judgment, as God tested Israel with ten plagues in Egypt (Exodus 7-12).

Biblical Numerology in the Old Testament

Biblical Numerology in the Old Testament is the study of the symbolic and spiritual meanings of the numbers used in the Hebrew scriptures. Biblical numerologists often use gematria, a method of assigning numerical values to the letters of the Hebrew alphabet, to reveal hidden messages or insights from God. Some of the common numbers and their meanings in the Old Testament are:

• • One: The number of God’s unity and sovereignty. It signifies that there is only one true God who created everything and deserves worship (Deuteronomy 6:4).
  • Two: The number of divisions, contrast, or witness. It can represent the duality of human nature, good and evil, or the two covenants, old and new. It can also symbolize the testimony of two witnesses to establish truth (Deuteronomy 19:15).
  • Three: The number of divine completeness or perfection. It is often associated with the Trinity, the three persons of God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It can also represent life, resurrection, or blessing, as God spoke life on the third day of creation (Genesis 1:11-13) and Jesus rose from the dead on the third day (Luke 24:46).
  • Four: The number of creation or universality. It refers to the four elements of earth, air, fire, and water, or the four directions of north, south, east, and west. It can also denote God’s sovereignty over all creation, as he made the sun, moon, and stars on the fourth day (Genesis 1:14-19).
  • Five: The number of grace or favour. It is related to the five books of the Torah, or the law of God, which reveals his grace and mercy to his people. It can also signify human weakness or dependence on God, as humans have five fingers, toes, senses, and wounds of Christ.
  • Six: The number of human imperfection or sin. It falls short of the divine number seven and represents man’s rebellion against God or his failure to keep his commandments. It is also the number of the beast, or the Antichrist, who will oppose God and deceive many in the end times (Revelation 13:18).
  • Seven: The number of divine perfection or completeness. It is based on the seven days of creation and rest (Genesis 2:1-3) and signifies God’s finished work or his covenant with his people. It can also denote holiness, sanctification, or spiritual maturity, as there are seven lamps on the menorah (Exodus 25:37) and seven spirits of God (Revelation 4:5).

Biblical Numerology in the New Testament

Biblical numerology is the study of the symbolic meaning of numbers in the Bible. It assumes that God has a purpose and a plan for everything, and that He uses numbers to communicate His message to His people. Some of the most common numbers in the Bible are 3, 7, 10, 12, and 40, but there are many others that have significance as well.

In the New Testament, biblical numerology is especially evident in the book of Revelation, which is full of symbolic imagery and numerical patterns. For example, the number 7 appears repeatedly in Revelation, representing completeness and perfection. There are seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven bowls, seven thunders, and seven spirits of God. The number 12 also has a prominent role in Revelation, symbolizing God’s people and His authority. There are 12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles of Jesus, 12 gates of the New Jerusalem, and 12 foundations of its wall.

Other numbers in the New Testament have specific meanings as well. For instance, the number 3 represents the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, and Peter denied Him three times before the rooster crowed. The number 10 signifies completeness and order. There are 10 commandments given to Moses, and 10 virgins waiting for the bridegroom in Jesus’ parable. The number 40 represents a period of testing and preparation. Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai, Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, and He appeared to His disciples for 40 days after His resurrection.

Biblical numerology is not an exact science, but a way of exploring the deeper meaning and message of God’s word. It can help us to appreciate the beauty and harmony of God’s design, and to discover His will for our lives.

Symbolism of Specific Numbers in the Bible

The Bible uses numbers to convey various meanings and messages throughout its text. Some numbers have more significance than others, and some are used more frequently than others. Here are some examples of the symbolism of specific numbers in the Bible:

• • One: The number one represents the unity and uniqueness of God, who is the only true God and the source of all things. For example, Deuteronomy 6:4 says, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.”
  • Three: The number three represents the Trinity, the triune nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. For example, Matthew 28:19 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
  • Four: The number four represents the four corners of the earth, or the universality of God’s creation and sovereignty. For example, Revelation 7:1 says, “After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth to prevent any wind from blowing on the land or on the sea or on any tree.”
  • Seven: The number seven represents completeness, perfection, or fullness. It is often used to describe God’s work or plan. For example, Genesis 2:2 says, “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.”
  • Ten: The number ten represents a complete set or a whole unit. It is often used to describe God’s law or commandments. For example, Exodus 20:1-17 lists the Ten Commandments that God gave to Moses on Mount Sinai.
  • Twelve: The number twelve represents God’s people or his chosen ones. It is often used to describe the twelve tribes of Israel or the twelve apostles of Jesus. For example, Revelation 21:12 says, “It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.”

The use of Numerology in Biblical Prophecy

Numerology is the study of the symbolic meanings of numbers and their influence on human life. Some people believe that numerology can reveal hidden truths and predict future events based on the numerical patterns found in the Bible. Biblical prophecy is the foretelling of God’s will and plan for humanity, often through visions, dreams, or messages from angels or prophets. Some people claim that numerology can help them understand and interpret biblical prophecy, by finding connections between numbers and words, dates and events, or names and meanings.

For example, some numerologists believe that the number 7 represents completeness, perfection, and God’s covenant. They point to the fact that God created the world in seven days, that there are seven days in a week, that there are seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowls of wrath in the book of Revelation, and that Jesus spoke seven words on the cross. They also believe that the number 666 represents the Antichrist, the beast, and the mark of the beast, as mentioned in Revelation 13:18. They try to identify who or what the Antichrist is by calculating the numerical value of names or titles using various methods, such as gematria or isopsephy.

However, not everyone agrees with the use of numerology in biblical prophecy. Some critics argue that numerology is a form of pseudoscience, superstition, or occultism, that has no basis in reality or scripture. They say that numerology is subjective, arbitrary, and prone to confirmation bias, meaning that people tend to see what they want to see and ignore what they don’t. They also warn that numerology can lead to false or misleading interpretations of the Bible, or even to deception or manipulation by false prophets or teachers. They advise people to rely on the plain and clear meaning of the Bible, and to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit and sound doctrine.

Misinterpretations and Controversies Surrounding Biblical Numerology

Biblical numerology is the study of the symbolic meanings of numbers in the Bible. It assumes that God has encoded hidden messages and patterns in the scriptures, and that by deciphering them, one can gain insight into God’s plan and purpose. However, biblical numerology is not a widely accepted or practiced discipline among Christians, and it has been subject to many misinterpretations and controversies over the centuries. Some of the common issues and challenges that biblical numerology faces are:

• • The lack of a consistent or authoritative method for assigning numerical values to words, letters, or phrases in the original languages of the Bible (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek). Different systems and traditions have been developed by various scholars and groups, but none of them can claim to be the definitive or correct one.
  • The tendency to impose one’s own preconceived ideas or agendas onto the biblical text, rather than letting the text speak for itself. Some biblical numerologists have used their calculations to support or justify their own theological views, political opinions, or eschatological expectations, often ignoring or twisting the context and meaning of the passages they cite.
  • The risk of falling into superstition or idolatry by giving too much importance or power to numbers, rather than to God who is the source and author of all things. Some biblical numerologists have attributed mystical or magical properties to certain numbers, or have sought to manipulate or influence their fate or circumstances by using numbers in rituals or practices that are not sanctioned by the Bible.

Practical Applications of Biblical Numerology in Daily Life

Biblical numerology is the study of the symbolic meanings of numbers in the Bible. It can help us to understand the deeper messages and purposes of God in His Word and in His creation. Some of the most common numbers in biblical numerology are 3, 7, 10, 12, and 40. Here are some practical applications of biblical numerology in daily life:

• • 3 represents the Trinity, the completeness and perfection of God. It can remind us to worship and praise God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to seek His guidance in everything we do.
  • 7 represents completeness, rest, and blessing. It can remind us to observe the Sabbath, to trust in God’s provision and protection, and to enjoy His gifts and grace.
  • 10 represents order, law, and responsibility. It can remind us to obey God’s commandments, to respect His authority, and to be faithful stewards of His resources.
  • 12 represents God’s people, His covenant, and His kingdom. It can remind us to be part of His church, to share His gospel, and to look forward to His return.
  • 40 represents testing, trial, and preparation. It can remind us to endure hardships with patience, to rely on God’s strength, and to grow in faith and maturity.

Resources for further Study on Biblical Numerology

Biblical numerology assumes that God has a purpose and a plan for everything, and that He uses numbers to communicate His message to His people. Some of the most common numbers in biblical numerology are 3, 7, 10, 12, and 40, which represent different aspects of God’s character, work, and covenant. For example, 3 signifies the Trinity, 7 signifies completeness or perfection, 10 signifies order or authority, 12 signifies God’s people or government, and 40 signifies testing or preparation.

If you are interested in learning more about biblical numerology, there are several resources that you can consult. Here are some of them:

• • The Biblical Meaning of Numbers from One to Forty by Dr. Stephen E. Jones. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the biblical significance of numbers, with detailed explanations and examples from both the Old and New Testaments.
  • The Numerical Bible by F.W. Grant. This book is a commentary on the Bible that highlights the numerical structure and design of each book and chapter. It shows how the numbers in the Bible reveal the divine wisdom and harmony of God’s word.
  • Theomatics: God’s Best Kept Secret Revealed by Del Washburn. This book introduces a new method of decoding the hidden numerical patterns in the Bible, based on the Greek and Hebrew alphabets. It claims that theomatics can prove the divine inspiration and accuracy of the Bible, as well as reveal its deeper meaning and message.

Conclusion: The Power and Beauty of Biblical Numerology

Biblical numerology is the study of the symbolic meaning of numbers in the Bible. It is based on the premise that God has encoded His message and purpose in the numerical structure of His word. Biblical numerology reveals the hidden connections and patterns that illuminate the divine design and harmony of God’s word. It also helps us to appreciate the power and beauty of God’s wisdom and creativity.

Biblical numerology is not a form of divination or fortune-telling, but a way of understanding the deeper meaning and significance of God’s revelation. It is not a matter of arbitrary or subjective interpretation, but a careful and faithful analysis of the biblical text and its context. Biblical numerology does not contradict or replace the plain and literal sense of Scripture, but rather complements and enriches it.

Biblical numerology is a fascinating and rewarding field of study that can enhance our faith and devotion to God. It can also inspire us to live according to His will and purpose, as we discover the numerical values and patterns that reflect His character and attributes. By exploring the power and beauty of biblical numerology, we can gain a deeper appreciation and awe for the word of God, which is perfect in every way.