What is Numerology?

Numerology is an ancient art that uses numbers to divine the future, guide human behavior and predict life events. It’s based on the belief that numbers carry special vibrations and that non-physical forces are best articulated through them. Its origins are unclear, but it’s widely attributed to the Greek philosopher Pythagoras.

Numbers play an important role in numerology, and there are several different types of analysis, calculations and interpretations that numerologists use. One is called name numerology, which correlates the letters in a person’s given name with their corresponding numerological meanings. Another is life path numerology, which analyzes the sum of the digits in a person’s date of birth to determine their career and personal life path. The other is birthday numerology, which examines the special skills a person was born with and how they might offer them to the world.

Wilder notes that some numerologists focus on master numbers, which are reoccurring digits such as 11 and 22. Others use the karmic cycle number, which is calculated from the total of the numbers in a person’s full date of birth. Still others rely on the life path number, which is calculated by adding up the digits in a person’s month, day and year of birth.