Numbers: Symbols and Archetypes

Number Symbols and Archetypes

The design of the symbols we associate with each numerical value is not accidental. The design itself provides clues as to the archetype and personality traits of each number. Keep in mind that each number is a counterpoint to the one that directly precedes it- related, yet the polar opposite in some way.

I first came across this concept of how humanity came to know and understand the number symbols while researching the mind-blowing field of Numerology. I enjoyed the descriptions and analogies offered by Hans Decoz®, Master Numerologist and Author, so much so that I have summarized and included them here.

I strongly recommend his app and website World Numerology® to those that seek to gain a greater understanding of this mystical science and art. For a more in-depth analysis of the numbers as archetypes and the role sacred geometry played as humankind discovered numbers, Numbers - Archetypes 1-10 is an excellent place to start!

Number 1 – The PRIMAL FORCE - ZEUS

The number of creation from which all other numbers spring forth. The first odd number, the divine masculine.

The shape of the number 1 reflects its meaning. The 1 walks upright with pride and purpose- strong, determined, unwavering. It is unlikely to back down but its rigid posture can shatter under prolonged pressure. The 1 is capable of turning ideas into reality, by pushing obstacles aside, or simply drilling right through them. Individualistic and independent to a fault. Pragmatic, ruthless conquerors, and warriors extraordinaire. The spearhead, always in the forefront directing and leading others.

Number 2 – THE ALL-KNOWING - HERA

The peacemaker, almost always tactful, diplomatic, forgiving. The first even number, the divine feminine.

The shape of the two gives us a clue to its resilience and ability to survive. This symbol could easily be perceived as weak and powerless, as if bowing in servitude. But when the humble 2 is under attack, its flexible nature allows it to bounce back quickly. The calm, thoughtful friend, the real power behind the throne. Patient and unassuming, recognized for its grace, sophistication, style. Unshakeable loyalty and devotion Can be jealous, mean-spirited, vengeful.

Number 3 – THE CREATIVE CHILD – HERCULES

The extraordinarily talented child. A bit spoiled, clearly scattered, and perpetually in need of guidance.

The artistic shape of the three points to the artistic, creative nature. Another unique quality of the 3 is the tendency to be “lucky” or to be in the right place at the right time, maybe due to their innate sense of rhythm in tune with the cyclical nature of things. Charm, wit, charisma. Less favorable traits include a lack of focus and direction, a tendency to procrastinate, an inability to finish projects.

Number 4 – THE SALT OF THE EARTH

The number of strength and stability, dependable, productive, punctual, obedient.

The shape of the number 4 has hard angles, a symbolic representation of this rather straight-edged workaholic that provide a strong foundation with its disciplined nature. The 4 works hard and is a good provider but demands discipline and loyalty. They do not do well in chaotic environments and do not like to make waves, but values moral convictions and doesn’t back down when they are convinced they are “doing the right thing.”

Number 5 – A DYNAMIC FORCE

The number 5 is unpredictable, always in motion, and constantly in search of change.

The shape of the 5 is a symbol of dynamic energy, elastic and constantly in motion. Daring, freedom-loving, adventurer and risk taker. Extremely independent in mind and soul. Versatile, adaptable, intelligent, progressive, tolerant. Convention bores them, easily drawn to the eccentrics and misfits of society. Funny and uplifting, generally well-liked and often surrounded by friends. They can also be polarizing, so uptight, self-righteous and judgemental people are quickly aggravated by them.

Number 6 – THE CARETAKER

The number 6 is all about sacrifice, healing, protecting, teaching.

The shape of the six is symbolic of its nickname the motherhood number, as it appears to be pregnant with child. No family or community can function without the attention of the 6- it is the glue that keeps a family and community together. Graceful, warm, and has a good sense of humor. Well-respected due to their sense of duty and responsibility. The 6 can be jealous and has a tendency to over-give of themselves, to the point of becoming intrusive and meddling, or a doormat to be abused and trampled on.

Number 7 – THE PHILOSOPHER

The number 7 is the seeker, the thinker, the searcher of truth.

The shape of the 7 is likened to the sage holding out his lantern in search of truth through the fog and mist of reality. The 7 is intellectual, and doesn’t take anything at face value. Always striving to understand the hidden truth, it knows that nothing is exactly as it seems ad reality is often hidden behind illusion. The mind is their greatest tool as well as their most significant limitation.

Number 8 – BALANCE & POWER

The number 8 emphasizes the areas of career, business, finances, authority.

The shape of the number 8 reflects its most important attribute- it is the great karmic equalizer- a force that creates just efficiently as it destroys. Drive, ambition, efficiencym organization, management, discipline, and control. At its best it is as spiritual as it is materialistic. The sacred side of the 8 is practical, rational, intelligent. The material side is focused on results, but sees money as a tool not an end-result.

Number 9 – GLOBAL AWARENESS

The 9 highlights a mathematical and philosophical observation that is unique and revealing. When you multiply any number times 9, then reduce the result to a single digit, it always equals 9. The 9 simply takes over. When you add it to any other number, then reduce the sum to a single digit, it always comes back to itself. For example, 5 + 9 = 14. 1 + 4 = 5. When multiplying, the 9 takes over, but when adding, the 9 does nothing.

The shape of the 9 reflects its similarities with the number 6. However, where the 6 is a symbol of love and compassion directed to people close to them, the 9 offers love and care to the world at large. Humanitarians, loving and empathetic, majestic, graceful, elevated, but closely connected with the rest of humankind. Hard to reach, seem aloof, and tend to float above the small-minded issues that can be upsetting to others. Doesn’t hesitate to rectify abuse, but does not seek credit for giving assistance.

These are just brief glimpses into the stereotypes associated with the basic single-digit numbers, as portrayed by Hans Decoz® World Numerology® Meaning of Numbers 1-9 (Copyright 2021 and World Numerology® LLC)

The Master Numbers

Before I bring this post to a close, I can not review the meaning behind numbers one through ten without mentioning the three master numbers: 11, 22, and 33. These special double-digit numbers that create the Triangle of Enlightenment. Other identical, double-digit numbers are power numbers, but only 11, 22, and 33 are master numbers. With great power, comes great responsibility, and the master numbers are not above this rule. In order to embody the greatness its status reflects, it must overcome difficulties, acquire wisdom, and expand into its potential.

MASTER NUMBER 11 – THE MASTER INTUITIVE

11 represents illumination, a channel to the subconscious. It has all the charm and diplomacy of the number 2, amplified. It is a number with inborn duality. Its leadership skills and ability to inspire are unparallelled.

MASTER NUMBER 22 – THE MASTER BUILDER

22 has the potential to be the most successful of all the numbers, but only if it is supported properly. It has many of the inspirational insights of the 11, combined with the practicality and methodical nature of the 4, making it unlimited yet disciplined.

MASTER NUMBER 33- THE MASTER TEACHER

33 is the most influential and most spiritually evolved. It combines the intuitive, inspirational nature of the 11, and the unlimited disciplined nature of the 22, boosting its potential to another level. It lacks personal ambition and instead focuses its considerable ability on the spiritual uplifting of humanity.

For more information about master numbers and their significance, refer to World Numerology Master Numbers (copyright Hans Decoz)