Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia facts for kids
Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia (say that five times fast!) is a really long word for a specific kind of fear. It means being afraid of the number 666. This fear comes from an old book in the Bible called Revelation, where 666 is described as the "number of the beast." For some people, this number is linked to bad things or even evil.
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What is Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia?
This unusual word, Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia, describes a strong fear of the number 666. It's a type of phobia, which is an intense, unreasonable fear of something. People with this phobia might try to avoid anything connected to the number 666. The word itself comes from ancient Greek words meaning "six hundred sixty-six."
Why is 666 Feared?
The main reason people fear the number 666 comes from the Book of Revelation in the Bible. In chapter 13, verse 18, it says that 666 is the "number of the beast." Many people believe this "beast" is connected to Satan or the Antichrist, who are seen as symbols of evil. Because of this, the number 666 has become a symbol of bad luck or danger for some.
Famous Examples of This Fear
Even famous people have shown signs of this fear. For example, in 1989, former U.S. President Ronald Reagan and his wife, Nancy Reagan, moved to a new home in Bel-Air, Los Angeles. Their new address was originally 666 St. Cloud Road. Because of their fear of the number, they had the address changed to 668 St. Cloud Road.
Another well-known example involved a highway in the United States. There was a road called U.S. Route 666. This road became known as the "Devil's Highway" because many people believed it was unlucky. There were often accidents and strange incidents reported on it. Because of these fears and concerns, the highway was eventually renamed U.S. Route 491.
Images for kids
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The number of the beast is 666 by William Blake
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Fragment from Papyrus 115 (P115) of Revelation in the 66th vol. of the Oxyrhynchus series (P. Oxy. 4499). Has the number of the beast as χιϛ, 616.
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Bust of Nero at Musei Capitolini, Rome
See also
In Spanish: Hexakosioihexekontahexafobia para niños
