History of Numerology
While the word "numerology" didn't appear in recorded English until 1907, its practice dates back to ancient Egypt and Babylonia, where it was used to predict events in people's lives and to interpret dreams. The ancient Hebrews called this practice Gematria and used it to interpret passages in the Hebrew Bible. The ancient Greeks also icorporated it into their philosophy and mythology.
The concept of numerology was further developed by the early Christians and Gnostics, referred to as Isopsephy, who believed that numbers were sacred and had special meanings. In the Middle Ages, numerology was used to predict the fate of individuals and to make important decisions such as choosing a wedding date.
In the 19th century, numerology was popularized by the work of the Theosophists, a new religion based on the writings of Helena Blavatsky, which taught that numbers held the key to understanding the nature of the universe. The term "numerology" was coined by the mathematician and mystic Pythagoras, who is known for his ideas about the relationship between numbers and the physical world.
In ancient China, numerology was used as a way to predict the future and make decisions. The Chinese believed that numbers had yin and yang properties and that the balance of these properties could be used to understand the energies of different cycles and periods.
Numerology continues to be practiced today, with many people using it as a tool for self-discovery, spiritual guidance, and making important life decisions. It is also sometimes used in business and financial analysis, as well as in the creation of artistic and literary works.
Read more in-depth about the different systems of numerology.
Famous people throughout history
Many have been known to use numerology, including:
- The ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras, who is considered the father of numerology and developed many of the concepts and principles still used in modern numerology.
- The medieval philosopher and alchemist, Paracelsus, who believed that numbers could be used to understand the mysteries of the universe.
- The 20th century New Age author and teacher, Alice A. Bailey, who wrote extensively about the spiritual and mystical aspects of numerology.
- The famous Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung had interest in numbers and their symbolic meanings, he was also influenced by numerology as well as alchemy, astrology and other form of divination
In more recent times
Some notable people who have been known to use numerology, including:
- Celebrity numerologist Glynis McCants, who has worked with many Hollywood stars and has been featured on numerous television shows and in magazines.
- The bestselling self-help author and motivational speaker Tony Robbins, who uses numerology as one of the many tools in his personal development work.
- Some business leaders also use numerology, as they believe it can help them to identify patterns in their market and make more informed decisions.