Biblical numerology

Biblical numerology refers to the interpretation, by some biblical scholars, of numerical values used in the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament that they believe relate to symbolism, which imply quality or attributes, of the value rather than to an actual quantity. While studied by theologians, not all agree with this interpretation. Others, preferring a more fundamental approach, believe that the numbers represent the literal quantities. This article explains the interpretation of those who believe that numbers sometimes represent attributes and not the number itself. According to the theory, these numbers were purposely inserted by their authors to emphasize a particular message. Numerical symbology is most often found in Ezekiel, Daniel and Revelation, but is not confined to those books.

While many ancient languages, religions, and philosophies contained numeric interpretation of events, words, and names, this article is concerned with those uniquely affecting Judeo-Christian beliefs. Although Greek culture was well-known to scholars in the first centuries BC and AD in the Middle East, Greek ideas about numerology do not seem to have permeated Jewish and Christian beliefs.

3: The implication of three is "perfection" or "holiness."(e.g. ().

4: Four signifies a sense of totality or "the world," preeminently in the Book of Revelation. It derives its meaning from there being four cardinal directions, as also attested in Mesopotamian literature.

6: Both Hebrew and Christian sources believe six indicates "imperfection," "man", or "evil." For Christianity, this occurs preeminently in the Book of Revelation. Some Christians believe that 666 is the Number of the Beast. The significance of three 6s shows eternal imperfection of Lucifer. However, a secular source, Britannica, reports that it means "perfection" in religion.

7: In both Jewish and Christian traditions, seven signifies "totality of perfection," "completeness."

8: Eight means a "new life" or "resurrection".

1,000 signifies "immensity" or "fullness of quantity", preeminently in the Book of Revelation.

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