Since we deal with duality and polarity on this beautiful planet, it stands to reason that there would be multiple interpretations of every modality. We seem to relish variety here on Earth. As the saying goes, “Variety is the spice of life.”
Just as there are several different kinds of astrology currently in use, there are also several numerology “schools” or methodologies in practice today.
The two major numerology methods in use today are the Chaldean/Kabbalah-based and Pythagorean-based.
The primary differences between these two different numerology systems center around the number vibrations attributed to each letter of the alphabet and the use (or non-use) of both the compound (double-digit) and single-digit numbers in creating a person’s or entity’s numerology profile. [By “entity” I mean “not a person.” An entity, in this case, could be a business, job, relationship, product, etc.]
There may also be a few subtle variations in the meanings attributed to the numbers. Yet, for the most part, both major systems are aligned in the meanings and attributes associated with each number.
The oldest forms of numerology appear to be the Chaldean and Hebrew Kabbalah versions, which use the same numeric alphabet. This numeric alphabet was also used by the Essene and Gnostics. Many numerologists feel that the Chaldean system is more reliable than other forms of numerology because the number value assigned to each letter is based on the vibration of the sound of the letter.
By the way, if you are a student of the Tarot, or just are intrigued by the symbols and oracle qualities of the Tarot, you may be interested to know there is also a numerology tie-in present. There is even an esoteric numerology system based on the Tarot.
Today, the more common versions of numerology being practiced are based on the Pythagorean numerical alphabet. Yet, variations exist in both schools. As with anything in life, each person adds their own unique approach to something while on their path to mastery.
This is true for athletes, performers, artists, bakers, gardeners, spiritual and holistic practitioners… and everything in between. While on the surface, two people may appear to do the same thing, on closer look, you’ll see they’ve incorporated elements of insight and understanding to make it their own. They may be similar, yet not exactly the same.
One reason I mention this is to let you know that you will probably find subtle differences among the other numerology books or reports that you read or use as a resource… including my interpretations.
The other reason is to give you permission to make the numbers your own, create your own synergistic relationship with them, let them speak to you in a way that you understand, and allow your intuition and wisdom to be part of the equation.
One area that I found confusing is the different labels used to describe the same thing across all the numerology schools and books I’ve read in my life.
Some examples:
Some numerologists refer to the sum total of your birthdate as the “Destiny Number” and others use “Life Path” -- yet they refer to the same number.
Another is the use of the terms “Secret Desire,” “Heart’s Desire,” Soul’s Desire”, and “Soul Urge” for the category that covers the sum of the vowels in your name.
The same thing occurs with the category terms for the consonants in your name: “Real You,” External You,” and “Outer Personality.”
They are just different names for the same sections in your numerology chart.
There are different methods for adding up your numbers, as well as a couple of different ways to identify your numbers, which may also cause confusion for some people.
Numerologists may use different ways to identify your numbers or believe some numbers in your chart are more important than others. Just keep in mind that numerology, like astrology, is a system where practitioners use different methods to create a chart for a person, as well as add in their own intuitive and interpretive skills.
The art of astrology and numerology is really in interpreting how the planets or numbers work together. On their own, they mean one thing, but when taken in combination with other aspects and numbers, their meaning might alter slightly… or quite a lot.
To use an everyday food example, chocolate taken alone has a very unique and definitive taste. Yet, if you mix chocolate with other ingredients, like chilies or vanilla ice cream, the chocolate takes on a slightly different flavor and texture as a result of the other ingredients.
So, while some superficial wording and methods may be different, the underlying basics in numerology systems are pretty much the same. Each number in a numerology chart represents an area of your human and spiritual awareness and identifies specific lessons you decided to learn for your Soul’s growth and evolution.
Angel numbers are not related to numerology, and their meanings are completely different from long-standing traditional meanings of the numbers. Angel Numbers are their own special system, originally downloaded by Doreen Virtue, and not to be confused with or compared with numerology. The reason I mention this is because I am often asked to explain why the Angel Number and Numerology Number meanings aren’t the same. Now you know.