Numerology and the Minor Arcana

Numerology is basically the study of the mysterious hidden meaning that numbers can provide about a person, place or thing.

In ancient times people used numerology to predict the future. After that it was used to understand people’s personalities. In Greece, some 2,600 years ago, Pythagoras, “the father of mathematics”, wrote that numbers set a limit to the limitless, that numbers constitute the true nature of things and that all concepts can be expressed in numbers. Further, he elaborated on the qualities and relative relationships between each of the 9 numbers and, as such, became the father of modern numerology.

Aces

Aces are the root force, raw energy. They indicate there are opportunities for development and change.

Keywords: beginnings, opportunities, ideas, creative potential, inspiration
Corresponding Major Arcana: The Magician

Twos

After the power and energy of the ones, the twos give the opportunity to restore balance and harmony. Twos indicate duality and the union of opposites. They are a number of harmony and co-operation, often indicating a choice.

Keywords: development, balance, harmony, choices, interaction
Corresponding Major Arcana: High Priestess

Threes

Three is the number of creativity, growth, action and enthusiasm. Threes are an expansion of the twos, bringing an initial achievement of goals.

Keywords: planning, creation, building, growth
Corresponding Major Arcana: Empress

Fours

Four is the number of stability and solid foundation. This can be a base to build on, or it could be a base that creates unneeded rigidity.

Keywords: stability, security, structure, order
Corresponding Major Arcana: Emperor

Fives

Fives signify change and unpredictability. They are an indication that established patterns are upset or changed. There may be difficulties and obstacles ahead which will need hard work if to be overcome.

Keywords: unbalance, change, challenge, struggle, adaptation, loss
Corresponding Major Arcana: Hierophant

Sixes

Six is the number of balance, harmony and service. It denotes achievement, success and recognition for effort and hard work.

Keywords: harmony, triumph, responsibility, truth, appreciation, reward, equilibrium
Corresponding Major Arcana: The Lovers

Sevens

Many cycles in nature correspond to the number seven and it can indicate the end of a cycle or the completion of a phase. Tension between the creative iimagination and harsh reality creates a challenge. There are choices to be made and decisions to be taken now.

Keywords: choices, reflection, difficulties, wisdom, the hidden, fate
Corresponding Major Arcana: The Chariot

Eights

The eights signify material success, worldly prosperity, as well as spiritual power and the balancing of opposite forces. Upheaval, which may not be welcome, is associated with this number.

Keywords: changes, movement, order, regeneration, transformation
Corresponding Major Arcana: Strength

Nine

Nine is the number of humanitarian concerns, perfection and transcendent love. Satisfaction and the need to move ahead are relevant to this number.

Keywords: conclusions, completion, attainment, dreams, mysticism, wisdom
Corresponding Major Arcana: The Hermit

Tens

Tens mark the end of one cycle and the beginning of another. It brings the wisdom of the experiences what we have gained in the previous cycle.

Keywords: fulfilment, transformation, end of a cycle, perfection, rebirth
Corresponding Major Arcana: Wheel of Fortune.