Numerology facts for kids

Numerology is a belief system that sees a special, hidden connection between numbers and events in our lives. It's like believing that numbers can tell us things about our personality, future, or important moments. People who study numerology often look at the numerical value of letters in names, words, or ideas to find these connections.

This practice is often linked to other mysterious or spiritual ideas, such as astrology (the study of how stars and planets might affect us) and divination (trying to discover the future or hidden knowledge). Even though people have thought about numbers in special ways for a long time, the word "numerology" itself only started being used in the English language around 1907.

What is Numerology About?

Numerology is a way of understanding the world through numbers. It suggests that numbers are more than just tools for counting. They are believed to carry special vibrations or energies. These energies can influence people, places, and events.

How Numbers Get Their Meaning

In numerology, each number from 1 to 9 has a unique meaning. Sometimes, larger numbers are added together until they become a single digit. For example, the number 11 or 22 might be kept as "master numbers" because they have extra power.

Life Path Numbers

One common part of numerology is finding your "Life Path Number." This number is usually calculated from your birth date. It's thought to show your main traits, challenges, and opportunities in life. It's like a map for your journey.

Expression Numbers

Another important number is the "Expression Number," also called the "Destiny Number." This one is found by converting the letters in your full birth name into numbers. It's believed to reveal your natural talents, abilities, and what you are meant to do.

History of Numerology

The idea that numbers have special meanings is very old. Ancient civilizations, like the Babylonians and Egyptians, used numbers in their beliefs. The ancient Greek mathematician Pythagoras is often called the "father of numerology." He believed that numbers were the key to understanding the universe.

Early Beliefs About Numbers

Many ancient cultures saw numbers as sacred. They used them in religious rituals and to predict events. For example, the Kabbalah, a Jewish mystical tradition, uses numbers and letters to interpret religious texts.

Modern Numerology

Modern numerology, as we know it today, became popular in the 20th century. It combines old ideas with new ways of thinking. Many people use it for self-discovery and personal growth.

Numerology and Other Beliefs

Numerology is often connected to other practices that explore hidden meanings. It shares ideas with astrology, where birth dates are also important. Both try to understand a person's character and future.

Divination and Prediction

Like divination, numerology can be used to try and predict outcomes. People might use it to choose important dates, like a wedding day. They believe certain numbers bring good luck or success.

Numerology as a Pseudoscience

It's important to know that most scientists consider numerology a pseudoscience. This means it looks like science but doesn't follow scientific methods. There is no scientific proof that numbers have these special powers. However, many people still find it interesting and helpful for personal reflection.

Images for kids

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  Numerorum mysteria (1591), a treatise on numerology by Pietro Bongo and his most influential work in Europe.

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  Agrippa's numerology table as published in Three Books of Occult Philosophy

See also

In Spanish: Numerología para niños