Tag: Pythagorean Numerology

Pythagoreans, Chaldeans, and Danes: What Is the Connection Between Modern Western and Ancient Numerological Systems?

~ Boštjan Lovrat ~ Leave a comment

In this article, I focus on the continuity of three major numerological schools in the West. I am therefore interested in the historical framework within which these approaches developed. The article does not address which of the systems described is better or worse, which is more suitable for use in the modern world, or which produces more valid results.

A. THE WESTERN SYSTEM

Original Pythagorean numerology emerged no later than the fifth century BCE, certainly by the time of Philolaus, a successor of Pythagoras. The subjects studied included:

  • The use of the Greek alphabet and its alphanumeric coding (at least among the Neopythagoreans).
  • Even and odd numbers.
  • Triangular, square, and oblong numbers.
  • Specific meanings of numbers: for some, 5 was considered the number of marriage, while 7 was the number of infertility and virginity. Particular emphasis was placed on the number 10, which was regarded as a special number—the (principal) tetractys.

Modern Pythagorean numerology is a system based on assigning numbers to letters according to their order in the Latin alphabet. In the nineteenth century, this system began to be called Pythagorean. Its modern version emerged between 1903 and 1908 through the work of L. Dow Balliett and Aso-Neith Cochran. The system acquired a reasonably systematic form in 1931 with the publication of Florence Campbell‘s book. Juno Jordan was also an important numerologist in this school.

Some refer to this numerological approach as the Western system or Western Kabbalah. Within this system:

  • The Greek alphabet is not used for coding. Instead, the system is based on the Milesian system of numerical coding, adapted to the contemporary Latin alphabets. There is therefore a departure from ancient Pythagorean numerology. In addition, modern numerologists adapting the Greek alphabet should explain the vibrations assigned to the Latin letters E and O.
  • A distinction between even and odd numbers is maintained, preserving continuity with ancient Pythagorean numerology.
  • Special numbers such as triangular, square, and oblong numbers are generally not used, representing a break with ancient Pythagorean numerology.
  • The meanings of numbers sometimes correspond to ancient meanings (for example, the association between justice and the number 8) and sometimes diverge from them (7 is sometimes treated as the number of marriage). The emphasis on the number 10 has been largely abandoned, while attention has shifted to the “master” numbers 11 and 22, which did not interest the ancient Pythagoreans. We can therefore speak of considerable discontinuity with ancient Pythagorean numerology.

By my rough estimate, modern Pythagorean numerology or Western system/Western kabala departs so extensively from the ancient system in at least 70% of its approach that the use of the name “Pythagorean” is certainly unjustified. It is a new numerological system that has managed to spread widely throughout the world over the past century.

B. THE CHALDEAN OR HEBREW/JEWISH SYSTEM

So-called Chaldean numerology (IPA: kælˈdiːən ˌnuːməˈrɑːlədʒi), also referred to as older Hebrew/Jewish numerology, emerged no later than the fourth or third century BCE. In Judea, practitioners studied:

  • The use of two local variants of the Aramaic alphabet and their alphanumeric coding. One of these two scripts is the square script. The other is the so-called “Chaldean” script, which Jews supposedly began using in Chaldea/Babylonia.
  • Specific meanings of numbers.
  • Specific relationships between numbers.
  • At least two systems for associating numbers with planets.

Modern Chaldean numerology, sometimes also called the Hebrew system or Hebrew Kabala, began to develop through the tarot tradition in the fifteenth century and, above all, through the work of French numerologists in the second half of the twentieth century. It reached its peak with Cheiro in the 1920s and 1930s. Interest in it subsequently declined considerably around the world. During this difficult period, Gerun Moore and Linda Goodman developed their respective approaches. To understand modern Chaldean numerology correctly, it is necessary to examine the numerological systems of all three of these authors. Only in recent years has the system of older Hebrew numerology begun to regain recognition.

There are historical exceptions in certain places. In India, for example, this numerological system has been popular for decades. The system has also been popular in Slovenia for more than three decades. In the 1990s, books were published there by Lorena Leonardos (formerly known as Naca Jermanj), who represents Gerun Moore’s school, and Bono Baršek, who builds on Linda Goodman’s school. In this millennium, several other Chaldean numerologists have also been active in the Slovenian numerology market, including Emily Enveritas (formerly known as Taja Veroti- Tjaša), Dan Sovina, Darja Bohiinc, Romana Pogorelčnik, and some others.

Today, so-called “Chaldean” numerology has almost no connection with the interpretations of numbers used in Babylonia (Chaldea). On the contrary, it actually derives from an old tradition of Judea and its surrounding region. This tradition must not be confused with the later Jewish Kabbalah, which emerged only between the third and sixth centuries CE.

Within this system:

  • In the West, Chaldean numerologists developed two main methods of coding the Latin alphabet using the values of the Aramaic or Hebrew script. The two methods differ in how they assign values to the letters C, H, and X. More or less, continuity with the ancient alphanumeric coding has been preserved.
  • The so-called “Chaldean” script, as a type of Jewish script, may have contributed to the wider use of the modern term “Chaldean numerology.”
  • Modern Chaldean/Hebrew numerology has largely preserved the specific meanings of numbers from antiquity.
  • Specific relationships between numbers are also represented in ways similar to those found in antiquity.
  • At least two systems for associating numbers with planets, which are key to this numerological system, have been adopted in their entirety from the ancient system.

By my rough estimate, modern Chaldean numerology preserves continuity with the older form of Jewish or Hebrew numerology in at least 90% of its approach. It is therefore rightly considered a Hebrew system, and the term “Chaldean” can be used for it with certain reservations. The label “Chaldean” is nevertheless somewhat unfortunate because it suggests a connection with Babylonian numerology, which differed in many respects. For example, the numbers 19 and 21 were considered unlucky in Babylonia, whereas among the Western Semites (“Chaldean numerology”) they were regarded as lucky.

C. THE DANISH SYSTEM OF POST-CHALDEAN NUMEROLOGY

I do not have information establishing exactly when Danish numerology, which takes the form of post-Chaldean numerology, first appeared. However, it was certainly present before 2014. This school is characterized by the following features:

  • It uses the same alphanumeric coding as Chaldean numerology.
  • It includes specific meanings assigned to numbers.
  • It uses hybrid substitutes for first names and surnames when the sum of the letter vibrations in a name is less than 10.
  • It uses a diamond-shaped numeroscope
  • Middle names (a second given name and the first surname) are placed in the center of the diamond, while the first given name and the final surname occupy the middle vertices of the diamond.
  • In its treatment of numerical relationships, great emphasis is placed on which number is produced by the two numbers in question.
  • It uses the Chaldean system of associating numbers with planets.

This school makes it possible to construct clearly structured numeroscopes in which numbers are arranged according to precisely defined relationships. This “mathematical” clarity is compatible with the rise of the information society and has enabled the development of online platforms, particularly over the past 13 years. In this way, it has provided many students with a simplified process for preparing a numeroscope and given them a sense of “scientific validity,” transparency, and reliability. One consequence of this development has been the proliferation of expensive courses successfully marketed by the Danish school. One could say that a numerology for the wealthy students has emerged.

Who are the leading Danish numerologists today? One example available online is the numerologist Millicent Rosamunde, who advocates the “classical” Danish school. Since 2014, new sub-branches have been developing. These include August Darius Danielsson (who also uses the name August Martin Mogensen), who expanded the numeroscope with additional structures. He may have been the one who introduced year ranks and day ranks when analyzing the future. Johannes and Estell Ehwas developed a numeroscope similar to Danielsson’s, but with additional structures.

The historical continuity of this school can be evaluated as follows:

  • It uses the same alphanumeric coding as Chaldean numerology, specifically Cheiro’s approach. Continuity with ancient alphanumeric coding has been preserved.
  • Modern Chaldean/Hebrew numerology has largely preserved the ancient meanings of numbers up to 52. For higher numbers and in the detailed treatment of other numbers, deviations from the ancient tradition occur.
  • The use of hybrid substitutes for first names and surnames represents a major departure from tradition. Historical examples of names with values below 10 indicate that, apart from in modern Denmark, this approach has not appeared in the known historical record.
  • Diamond charts are probably a new development with no older tradition behind them.
  • The special treatment of middle names is a new development that cannot be linked to the older tradition.
  • In its treatment of numerical relationships, the Danish school sometimes departs from tradition.
  • Its system of associating numbers with planets derives from the old tradition.

By my rough estimate, this school retains only about 50% continuity with the tradition of Chaldean, or older Hebrew, numerology. Although it refers to Cheiro, I therefore do not consider it appropriate to use labels such as Chaldean or Hebrew numerology for this school. I use terms such as the Danish school or Danish post-Chaldean numerology instead.

D. CONTINUITY BETWEEN THE SYSTEMS

We have already discussed the differences between Pythagorean and Chaldean numerology (Articles 1 and 2). From the perspective of continuity between the two systems, modern Western numerology, which presents itself under the misleading name “Pythagorean,” developed only about 120 years ago in the United States and Great Britain.

Modern “Chaldean” numerology also uses a somewhat misleading name, but it developed more than 2,300 years ago in Judea and probably in the surrounding region as well. The Danish school is closer to older Hebrew numerology than Western numerology is to original Pythagorean numerology.

Although the Danish school has been gaining considerable popularity in recent years, it is nevertheless a school in its own right and represents the youngest of the three systems discussed here. Its foundations were established only in recent decades.

Master Numbers 11, 22, 33 …

~ Boštjan Lovrat ~ 1 Comment

Chaldean numerology does not recognize the master numbers 11 and 22. Although certain older European numerological writings hinted at the special nature of these numbers, even Pythagorean numerologists did not use them until relatively recently — at least not before the notorious and controversial numerologist Aso-Neith Cochran (Asenath Williams Woodcock Cochran) in the early 20th century.

After Cochran elevated the numbers 11 and 22 to a special status, her ideas were adopted by the even more famous Pythagorean numerologist L. Dow Balliett (actually Sarah Joanna Dennis Balliett). Around Balliett gathered a strong circle of neo-Pythagorean numerologists who significantly reshaped the Pythagorean numerological tradition. Soon afterward, Julia Seton, one of the aforementioned Pythagorean number enthusiasts, also classified 33, 44, 55, 66, and so on as master numbers.

It is possible that the Pythagoreans were also influenced by the Tarot cards XI (“Strength”) and 0 or XXII (“The Fool”). Card XI depicts a woman calmly standing beside a lion, closing its jaws with her bare hands. For this reason, the card is sometimes referred to as “ a Lion Muzzled.” Card 0 or XXII shows a man casually walking along his path while a dog — or some beast — bites at his leg. Perhaps this inspired Aso-Neith Cochran to attribute special power to these cards and numbers.

The number 22 is double 11, and in addition, the English word MASTER adds up to 22 according to the reduced numerical values of letters in the English alphabet:

M + A + S + T + E + R = 4 + 1 + 1 + 2 + 5 + 9 = 22.

All subsequent “master numbers” are multiples of 11.

Whatever the logic behind these Pythagorean ideas may have been, they eventually found their way into Chaldean numerology as well. Some Chaldean numerologists abandoned the older Chaldean tradition precisely because of this and adopted the Pythagorean interpretations of the numbers 11 and 22. They did not even exercise enough critical thinking to calculate the Chaldean value of the English word MASTER, which is actually 19, not 22:

M + A + S + T + E + R = 4 + 1 + 3 + 4 + 5 + 2 = 19.

And in other languages, the translation of the word “master” yields entirely different values.

In the Chaldean tradition, the numbers 11 and 22 are considered challenging numbers. In particular, the meaning of 11 here differs somewhat even from the Italian Tarot tradition.

Personally, when it comes to the numbers 11, 22, 33, and so on, I follow the older interpretations. There are not many situations in which 11 functions as a strong and stable number. It seems that this so-called “master level” is more the exception than the rule in the case of this number.

Let me ask you this: How many women would dare approach an untamed lion and close its jaws with their bare hands? And if the Tarot lion is already domesticated, then we cannot really speak of mastery at all…

Why do Cheiro’s descriptions of numbers in the Chaldean tarot stop at 52?

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Cheiro’s descriptions of numbers end at number 52. In the “Chaldean” tarot, this number is associated with the Queen of Swords, and it is said to be governed by hidden strategy, emotionality, and the element of swords. For this reason, it could have been linked by Cheiro to number 43. However, the Chaldean tarot with its 56 Minor Arcana cards is understood as a variant of the Marseille tarot, and therefore its structure is considered to extend up to the number 78.

There are several reasons why Cheiro may have stopped his numerical descriptions upon reaching 52. Within Cheiro’s method of number addition, it is relatively uncommon for values higher than 52 to be obtained.

On the other hand, number 52 corresponds to the number of weeks in a year. Furthermore, if 52 is multiplied by the number of days in a week, the result is 52 × 7 = 364, which closely approximates the number of days in a year. In this way, number 52 is strongly associated with calendar symbolism, linking the solar and lunar cycles, and is therefore seen as representing completeness.

In a similar vein, the Indian numerologist Pandit Sethuraman also worked with higher numbers and thus sought a different form of completeness, which was found in the product of 12 (the zodiac signs) and 9 (the core essences in decimal-based numerological systems). The multiplication 12 × 9 = 108 yields the number 108, which is regarded in Indian tradition as highly sacred.

In Pythagorean numerology, even before the First World War, an idea emerged that the 26 letters of the English alphabet could be treated separately in their uppercase and lowercase forms. In this way, the number 52 was likewise obtained, representing a doubling of 26.

There is likely also a substantive reason for stopping at number 52. According to the information available, the meanings of numbers derived from the “Chaldean” tarot may, beyond 52, diverge in certain cases from the historically expected interpretations when specific criteria are applied.

A Brief History of Name Numerology

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Name numerology most likely originates from ancient Egypt. The first known example of its use comes from ancient Assyria. Sargon II, the Assyrian ruler of the 8th century BCE, built a wall in the city of Khorsabad whose total volume corresponded numerically to the value of the king’s own name.

The Greeks called word-based numerology isopsephy. The term derives from the words ἴσοσ (ísos) meaning equal and ψῆφοσ (psêphos) meaning count. Early examples of using the Greek alphabet for analyzing names and phrases date from the 3rd century BCE. Within isopsephy, a distinction between vowels and consonants was already being observed.

Among the Hebrews, name numerology (originally still Chaldean in nature) was known from at least the 1st century CE onward as gematria (גמטריא). The term may have originated from the Greek word for geometry. An early example of Hebrew gematria is the analysis of the name of Emperor Nero, which in Hebrew transcription — NRVN QSR (that is, Neron Caesar) — produces the number 666, the number of the beast and of man. The calculation uses the classical Chaldean “large values” (mispar hechrachi) rather than the later Jewish “great values” system (mispar gadol), which came into use only later, perhaps with the development of classical Jewish Kabbalah.

N (Nun) = נ = 50
R (Resh) = ר = 200
V (Vav) = ו = 6
N (Nun) = נ = 50
Q (Kuf) = ק = 100
S (Samech) = ס = 60
R (Resh) = ר = 200

Total: 50 + 200 + 6 + 50 + 100 + 60 + 200 = 666.

Much later, the word gematria also came to be used for the analysis of Christian names and expressions written in the Greek alphabet — though in reality this represents a Christian adaptation or extension of isopsephy. In late antiquity or the early Middle Ages, India also developed its own systems for encoding names with numbers. The main figure associated with numerology is the Indian scholar Vararuci. The Arabic system analyzed names based on 28 letters and was called ʿilm al-ḥurūf (علم الحروف).

The analysis of names for the purpose of studying human destiny appeared in Europe only around the 16th century. From this period onward, two main schools began to take shape. One is known as the Pythagorean school (which, despite the name, has only limited connection to the original ancient Pythagorean numerology), and the other is the Chaldean school, which is based at least in part on the reconstruction of numerological knowledge once held by the Western Semites.

Both schools went through several stages of development. There are also notable similarities between them, as their traditions influenced each other over time. Name numerology that uses the same type of alphanumeric coding later employed by Cheiro first appeared shortly before his time. However, Cheiro’s interpretive method itself is much older — it incorporates both Tarot symbolism and ancient tradition.

Modern Pythagorean numbering of the English alphabet emerged slightly earlier than Cheiro’s approach, but the method of interpreting names as we know it today took shape within the Pythagorean school only sometime between 1907 and 1930.

The Limits of Prediction in Numerology and Beyond

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Whether Pythagorean or Chaldean, numerology is not the most straightforward or reliable method for forecasting the future or for studying how favorable or unfavorable numbers operate over time. The range of available techniques is simply too broad, and their effectiveness is often difficult to evaluate.

By contrast, consider how many predictive methods are used in BaZi, or the Four Pillars of Destiny:

  • Analysis based on the core Four Pillars
  • Analysis through ten-year and five-year cycles
  • Annual cycle analysis
  • Monthly cycle analysis
  • Daily cycle analysis
  • Hourly cycle analysis

That’s only six techniques in total!

Western astrologers, likewise, typically rely on six primary predictive methods:

  • Transits of planets through sensitive areas of the natal chart
  • Primary directions
  • Secondary progressions
  • Symbolic directions
  • Lunations
  • Solar returns

Again, just six techniques.

In contrast, I’ve personally encountered a large number of predictive methods within numerology. While some of them are of little real value, many—dozens, in fact—do seem to exert a certain influence. However, applying numerology to the analysis of time cycles is extremely challenging. It’s hard to achieve clarity, and even harder to assess how different numerical influences interact with one another.

Some numerologists try to simplify matters by focusing only on universal and personal days, months, and years. Danish post-Chaldean numerologists, for example, use yearly and daily ranks along with a single technique for analyzing multi-year cycles. Yet all of these approaches are overly reductive, and the results inevitably vary.

Personally, I use and study numerological techniques primarily in ex post analysis—that is, in reviewing past events. On rare occasions, especially in the context of mundane (political) numerology, which I’m still learning, I do look at how fundamental number patterns may evolve in future scenarios.

Many numerologists resolve the issue of prediction by turning to astrological methods, such as planetary astrology or Four Pillars techniques, to forecast future energy flows. In these cases, numerology is mainly used to identify the foundational energetic patterns that aim to influence the individual.

Even when numerology (or astrology—or any system, really) is applied to forecasting, it can never produce 100% accurate results. It’s simply not possible. We must remember: it only seems as though numerology or astrology can truly predict the future. It only seems as though fate can be read from a birth chart or numerological matrix.

States of deep divine attunement, states of profound emptiness, and personal conscious action can all weaken the influence of the numerological (and astrological) matrix. When we act without attachment and with total freshness, we can step beyond these limitations—into realms that transcend all systems.

So-Called “Karmic Numbers” in Chaldean and Pythagorean Numerology

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Karma refers to the principle of cause and effect—the idea that certain causes inevitably lead to certain consequences. Because this connection enables a cause to attract a specific outcome, the law of karma can also be seen as a form of the law of attraction. Agricultural metaphors are often used in relation to karma. One of the most well-known sayings is: “You reap what you sow.” The law of karma is also closely related to the so-called “Golden Rule,” which, in Christian tradition, is expressed as:

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)

Opinions differ on whether the law of karma always applies or whether exceptions exist. There’s also debate about whether karma necessarily requires a reversal of roles over time, which presumes the existence of a reincarnation cycle. Most Christians, however, believe that final karmic justice is not achieved through multiple lifetimes but rather through God’s judgment as a singular event.

Nevertheless, both astrology and numerology must, to some degree, adhere to the principle of karma. Otherwise, we couldn’t claim that specific planetary alignments or numbers lead to specific outcomes. In that sense, all numbers can be considered karmic to some extent.

However, there are narrower interpretations of “karmic numbers.” In Pythagorean numerology, the following are traditionally regarded as karmic:

  • 13 – associated with death and destruction (influenced by the Tarot)
  • 14 – linked to accidents, illness, and loss
  • 16 – connected to downfall or collapse (also reflecting Tarot influence)
  • 19 – represents unresolved past challenges that manifest as difficulties in the present

These numbers are said to bring challenges, but in some cases, they can have positive effects—especially when one chooses a more spiritual path.

In contrast, Chaldean numerology generally regards base numbers 4 and 8 as karmic. These numbers often carry challenges or bring about difficult circumstances. They may also generate ongoing karma. However, individuals operating on a higher spiritual level may experience these numbers as karmic rewards rather than burdens.

Beyond the base numbers, all compound numbers in Chaldean numerology are considered karmic as well. If a compound number is positive (such as 10, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 27, and others), it is believed to generate or express favorable karma. If it is negative (like 11, 12, 16, 18, 22, 26, 28, 29, and so on), it is thought to produce or exprtess challenging or negative karma. The philosophy behind these numbers often aligns with that of the Tarot.

Chaldean numerology also attributes aspects of one’s past karma to the birth date, viewing it as a reflection of existing karmic patterns. Meanwhile, name numbers and the Life Path number point more to the direction of personal growth and the creation of new karma.

So how do Chaldean and Pythagorean numerology relate in terms of karmic numbers? Interestingly, both systems associate 14 with accidents and misfortune (traditional Chaldean system!), and both see 16 as a number of collapse or downfall. The number 13 has traditionally been considered unlucky in both systems as well. Descriptions of 13 and 16 in both approaches are heavily influenced by Tarot symbolism.

Despite these similarities, the differences between the two systems are significant. In the Pythagorean tradition, base numbers 4 and 8 are not generally seen as problematic. In contrast, modern Chaldean numerology does not necessarily view 13 as a symbol of death or destruction—it can actually be beneficial in many cases. The number 19 is usually regarded as extremely fortunate, though in very specific number combinations it may act in a way similar to the challenging number 28. Perhaps the most fundamental difference is that Chaldean numerologists interpret all compound numbers through a karmic lens.

The Types of Numerology

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There are several types of numerology. Here are some of the most well-known examples:

  • The so-called Chaldean numerology (sometimes also referred to as Aramaic or ancient Hebrew numerology). In modern times, it has been represented by figures such as Cheiro, Linda Goodman, and Gerun Moore.
  • Greek name numerology, or isopsephy, which was also adopted by the Pythagoreans.
  • Pythagorean numerology, which has several subcategories. It was likely initiated by Philolaus, a follower of Pythagoras’ philosophy who lived about a century after him. The dominant branch today was influenced by L. Dow Balliett, with notable figures including Florence Campbell and Juno Jordan.
  • Hebrew name numerology, or gematria. It was already used by Philo of Alexandria.
  • Kabbalistic gematria. Its foundations are described in the late antique text Sepher Yetzirah.
  • Arithmology, the analysis of names of people and concepts found in sacred texts, primarily those of Jewish and Christian Bibles. Key figures include Martianus Capella and Pietro Bongo.
  • Greek gematria and Latin gematria as parts of arithmology.
  • Arabic name numerology, or ‘ilm al-huruf, which also incorporates Islamic arithmological interpretations. Notable figures include Ibn Arabi, Al-Farabi, and Ahmad al-Buni.
  • Within ‘ilm al-huruf, some Persian numerologists also contributed or developed their own models.
  • Vedic numerology, with its most famous numerologist being Vararuci.
  • Martinist numerology, represented by figures such as Martines de Pasqually, Louis-Claude de Saint-Martin, and Papus.
  • Bagua, or spatial numerology of the eight directions.
  • Yi Jing (I Ching) numerology, based on 64 hexagrams.
  • Astro-numerological calendar-based school of the Nine Star Ki.
  • Astro-numerological calendar-based school of Sizhu/Bazi (Four Pillars of Destiny). Its classical representative is Xu Ziping, after whom the main branch of this school is named.
  • Astro-numerological calendar-based school of Zi Wei Dou Shu.
  • Spatial numerology Fei Xing (Flying Stars), used in Feng Shui.
  • Spatial numerology San He, a branch of Feng Shui.
  • Spatial numerology San Yuan, another branch of Feng Shui.
  • Spatial numerology of the Eight Mansions, or Ba Zhai, which is used in Feng Shui.

All these and other approaches have their own principles, which are sometimes compatible and sometimes not. For example, the Chaldean method shares several similarities with the Pythagorean school but has little to no connection with the Ba Zhai school.

Chaldean Numerologist: Cheiro

~ Boštjan Lovrat ~ 4 Comments

William John Warner, better known as Cheiro (November 1, 1866 – October 8, 1936), was also referred to by nicknames such as Count Louis Hamon and others. However, he is primarily remembered as Cheiro. He was a British astrologer, numerologist, and palm reader.

His birth name contains numbers—13 and 15 (the sum of 96; 9+6=15). The base numbers 4 and 6 govern his numerological chart. This chart reveals a strong desire for recognition and performance (particularly highlighted by 96, with 24 in Life Path and 15 as the base number in his surname), along with a drive for success in business. Cheiro’s official name also reflected a robust longing for friendship and love, from which he drew significant spiritual strength. Additionally, he enjoyed fairly favorable influences of numbers on the chakras, which may have contributed to his reputation as a successful medium for a time.

The combination of numbers 13 and 15 sparked his interest in the occult (both 13 and 15), reforms, pioneering approaches (13), and even magic (15, 41). The number 41, in particular, fosters a fascination with numerology, which is further emphasized by his nickname “Cheiro” (Mercury and 23). Due to the numbers 13 and 15, an individuals may either become a victim of manipulation and circumstances or turn into a manipulator themselves… The overall numerological chart is complex and can bring strokes of fate that often arrive unexpectedly.

Cheiro was convicted and imprisoned in Paris around 1910 for business fraud, and it is said that this scandal closed doors among the English elite, prompting his move to the morally less stringent United States. An analysis of his works reveals a tendency for manipulation and misinformation—claiming, for instance, that he had been offering numerological guidance based on his system since the late 19th century, or that number 9 was so sacred it couldn’t correspond to any letter. Moreover, he downplayed the contributions of his European sources, like Isidore Kozminsky and Sepharial, while asserting he learned Chaldean numerology from an Indian brahmin.

Cheiro. Source: Wikimedia Commons, File:Cheiroy.jpg .

It’s essential to recognize that relationships between 15 and 4, or between 15 and 8, should not be judged too harshly. Not everyone with such combinations inherently becomes a manipulator, criminal, or prisoner. An individual’s morals and self-awareness dictate whether they use their strengths for good or ill, and when, if ever, they will yield to temptation. Furthermore, numerological charts can point to which areas of life help to balance the individual. For Cheiro, these areas primarily involved seeking courage, forming a connection with God, and nurturing love and kindness.

Even in his nicknames—like “Count Louis Hamon” and “Count Leigh de Hamong“—the theme of number 13 is prominently featured. It seems Cheiro intentionally emphasized this number, perhaps because it brings uniqueness and combines with the interchangeable number 1 to form a whole.

His nickname “Cheiro” underscores intellectual depth, as it contains the numbers for Mercury and the Sun. The number 23 derived from the nickname is considered auspicious.

In 1926, Cheiro published a book titled Cheiro’s Book of Numbers. In it, he defined the meanings of numbers in Chaldean tarot from 1 to 52, based on older sources. He also defined the rules of matching and mismatching between numbers. For each of the numbers 4 and 8, he differentiated between karmically strong and weak numbers, determining various numbers that align with them. He described favorable and less favorable months, recommended specific herbs and foods, indicated favorable colors and gemstones, and identified ailments commonly associated with particular numbers.

It’s very likely that Cheiro drew the foundational idea of alpha-numeric coding from Isidore Kozminsky, who assigned the letter H a value of either 5 or 8, and the letter X a value of 5. Based on his research, Cheiro developed an alpha-numeric coding scheme in which letters H and X always hold a value of 5. He also altered the value of the letter C, assigning it a value of 3 instead of 2.

For Cheiro, the key to analysis lies in the birth date, or Birth Number. He believed that the Total Name Number (TNN) should align with the Birth Number; otherwise, an individual might encounter challenges throughout life. He further explored the numerological influences of each day of the year based on the specific day of the month. Around 1936, he published another book titled You and Your Star, in which he detailed favorable numbers for every day.

Cheiro’s ideas of such favorable numbers influenced numerologists like Gerun Moore and Lloyd Strayhorn, who developed their own systems based on these concepts.

In Cheiro’s Book of Numbers, he established special guidelines to identify the most important two-digit number in a numerological chart. This number frequently corresponds to TNN, but sometimes the most significant number is derived from adding the birth date and TNN together (Birth Number + TNN). Cheiro did not assign a name to this number, but I personally refer to it as the Goal Number (which differs from Goal Numbers in Pythagorean numerology). Anmarie Uber called it the “Hidden Number,” while some perceive it as an indicator of career success.

Cheiro’s book, Cheiro’s Book of Numbers, does not provide reliable techniques for predicting the future. It also contains inaccuracies, such as the assertion that the Chaldeans were unaware of letters with a value of 9. Nonetheless, despite not being a comprehensive manual, this work played a pivotal role in the evolution of numerology. In many ways, Cheiro is considered the father of modern Chaldean numerology.

Chaldean Numerology: Numerological Chart or Numeroscope

~ Boštjan Lovrat ~ 3 Comments

A numerological chart or numeroscope (from Latin numerus = “number” and Greek σκόπος = “observer, watcher”) is a comprehensive display of name and date numbers associated with one’s destiny. There is no unified approach among numerologists regarding what exactly a numeroscope should include or how it should be visually represented. Each numerologist designs the numerological chart in their own way.

In Chaldean numerology, for many practitioners, the numerological chart includes only the name number, surname number, Total Name Number (TNN), and Birth date number. Some add the Life Path number and a special Goal number, which is derived from the Birth date number and the TNN (also referred to as the Career number or Hidden number). Chaldean numerologists rarely consider the number derived from the day and month of birth.

Complex numeroscopes first appeared in modern Pythagorean numerology after World War I. These numeroscopes are also the most standardized. They display name numbers, which are divided into vowel numbers (Soul Urge, Soul or Heart’s Desire), consonant numbers (Personality, Body or Quiescent Self), and whole numbers (Expression, Mind). For date numbers, the Life Path is primarily considered, while predictions use Pinnacles, Challenges, letter transits, and universal and personal years, months, and days. A special Goal number is also used, derived from the TNN and Life Path. In the last 20 years, the interpretation of so-called Arrows has also become widespread.

There are, of course, mutual influences and shared foundations between Chaldean and Pythagorean numerology. The differences between the two schools are not as significant as some claim. Unfortunately, some Chaldean numerologists have gone so far as to uncritically adopt all Pythagorean techniques for designing and interpreting numerological charts. For example, personal years, months, and days have such a minimal effect that their use causes more confusion than clarity.

In Chaldean numerology, vowel and especially consonant numbers are crucial for proper interpretation and, in my opinion, should be included in the numerological chart. In fact, these numbers were already known in 19th-century Chaldean numerology, but this knowledge faded into obscurity. After World War II, Chaldean numerologists began using them again under the influence of the Pythagorean school. The Life Path number should also be considered, even though it does not hold as much significance as the day of the month number.

My style of numerology chart using Nikola Tesla as an example.

Some modern numerologists (both Chaldean and Pythagorean) have gone a step further by introducing various other numbers. In Chaldean numerology, the growth of the Danish numerology school (August Darius Danielsson, Johannes and Estel Ehwass, Novalee Wilder) is especially notable. This school connects name and date numbers in a special way with the Kabbalistic Tree of Life, which is typically represented in the shape of a rhombus.

August Darius Danielsson, apparently the founder of this school, calls the basic numerological Tree of Life (represented as rhombus) “The Human Self,” while the basic date matrix is represented as a triangle, which he calls “The Higher Self.” Date numbers also create a parallel with “The Human Self,” forming an additional Tree of Life. Danielsson refers to this rhombus as “The Highest Self.” Each of these sections contains a multitude of numbers.

The Ehwass duo presents a similar structure for the numerological chart. They call “The Human Self” the “Name Chart,” and “The Highest Self” the “Psychic Chart.” They retain the name “The Higher Self.” For consonant numbers, they design their Tree of Life/rhombus as the “Personality Chart,” and for vowel numbers as the “Vocation Chart.”

The Danish school, therefore, introduced advanced standardized numerological charts. However, it diverges significantly from the traditional understanding of how to calculate name numbers. Practitioners of this school create composite numbers from non-composite name or surname numbers, which then become the actual name or surname numbers. They do something similar with date numbers in “The Highest Self”/”Psychic Chart.” Members of this school also calculate so-called year ranks and day ranks, which they use for prediction. Personally, I do not belong to the Danish school. I have reservations both about their application of the Tree of Life and their method of calculating name numbers.

Some Sources:

Personal Years, Months, and Days

~ Boštjan Lovrat ~ Leave a comment

The traditional method of calculating personal years, months, and days, based on birth data, has been in use for approximately a century. This method involves considering the digits of the day and month, and then adding the digits of the current year to calculate the personal year. Subsequently, the digits of the current month are added to this result to determine the number for the personal month, and finally, by adding the digits of the current day, the personal day is obtained. Unfortunately, the method for determining personal years, months, and days mostly doesn’t provide accurate results.

As an example, let’s consider the day of Pavel Durov’s arrest—August 24, 2024. According to the traditional method, on this date, Durov would have a personal year of 1+0+1+0+2+0+2+4 = 10, a personal month of 10+8 = 18, and a personal day of 18+2+4 = 24. The number 18 can bring legal disputes. On the one hand it is favorably influenced by the number 24, which is otherwise one of the luckiest numbers in numerology. However, it is also influenced by the negative relationship with the annual number 10. Although the period could be said to work, an arrest would be expected on an inauspicious day. Yet 24 is a lucky number. How can someone be arrested on a lucky day?

In contrast, Chaldean numerology provides a precise analysis of compound numbers in the personal year, month, and day. This approach offers a powerful tool for scrutinizing established hypotheses and sheds light on the fact that not all teachings from the traditional method are universally true. It is intriguing to note that despite its strong prevalence and propagation in Pythagorean numerology, many Chaldean numerologists do not adopt this approach of personal years, months, and days.

Exploring different numerological perspectives unveils the rich complexity and potential inconsistencies within this field, prompting further contemplation and critical examination of established methods and beliefs.