The Origin of Angel Numbers
Angel numbers have become trendy over the last few years. I started to hear about them in 2017. It seemed like suddenly every store was selling necklaces with ‘777’ and ‘444’, and every millennial was getting their angel number tattooed on their hand (and on other body parts, but why does it seem like it’s always the hand? LOL).
I disregarded it at the time as a fad that would eventually run its course. It wasn’t until this past year, while going through a period of deep reflection and transition that I started to notice three numerical sequences presenting themselves in my life almost daily.
Are these the angel numbers everyone is talking about?
I am not a religious person. My parents had no religious affiliations when I was growing up, and I never sought out any as an adult. However, I have always considered myself a spiritual person and believed in angels. I am also an intellectually curious person who prefers to fully understand something before I form an opinion on it. So, I started doing research. My first question:
Where did the term angel numbers come from?
The short answer is from author Doreen Virtue’s book Angel Numbers, published in 2005.
But first, let’s go back a little further. . .
The idea that numbers could convey signs and messages started in the sixth century with Pythagorean numerology. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras introduced the idea that each number had its own unique vibrational energy. He also believed that numeric vibrational energy could give us insights into our lives and personalities (specifically through birth dates and times).
In the 19th century, author L. Dow Balliett spent time studying Pythagorean numerology and wrote a book several books on the subject. She founded The Balliett System, also known as The Vibration of Numbers. The system was based on the idea that you can determine the quality of a person’s mind, body, and soul through their name and birth date vibration number.
To find your name vibration number:
1. Get a piece of paper and divide it into nine columns.
2. From right to left, number each column.
3. From right to left, write the alphabet, putting a letter in each column.
4. Find the number that corresponds with each letter of your first and last name.
5. Add all the numbers together to get your vibration number.
Example: John Doe
John = 1 + 6 + 8 + 5 = 20
Doe = 4 + 6 + 5 = 15
20 + 15 = 35 (3+5= 8)
His name vibration number is 8
To find your birth date vibration number:
1. Determine the month number you were born in.
2. Add the numbers together on the day you were born.
3. Add the numbers together in your birth year.
4. Add steps 1–3 together to get your vibration number.
Example: May 15, 1983
May = 5
Birth date = 1+5= 6
Year = 1+9+8+3= 21
5+6+21=32 (3+2=5)
The birth vibration number is 5.
In Balliett’s book The Philosophy of Numbers: Their Tone and Color, published in 1908, she breaks down the life, character, and spiritual path of each vibration number.
Now, fast forward to the 20th century and Doreen Virtue.
Doreen Virtue is a former new-age author and certified angelologist. New Age worldview became popular in the 1970s. The belief emphasizes holism and the idea that everything in existence is intricately connected. It includes beliefs in reincarnation, astrology, psychics, and the presence of spiritual energy in physical objects.
In 1995, Virtue was involved in an armed carjacking. She attributed her survival to the intervention of angels. This belief led her to pursue a career as an angelologist and angel therapy practitioner. Virtue has published over 50 books on angels and other spiritual topics, including oracle card decks. Her book Angel Numbers, published in 2005, coined the term that is widely used today when describing a pattern or sequence of numbers that is seen repeatedly.
In 2017, when Virtue began studying the Bible, she read Deuteronomy 18:10–12, which lists the sinful activities of new age beliefs. She then says she decided to “repent and give her life to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” She publicly denounced her work and asked that all books and products be taken off the shelves immediately. You can read her testimony on her website.
After learning the origin of angel numbers, my second question was:
What is the best source of truth if I want to learn more about angel numbers and angelology?
I think we can all agree that it is hard to determine a source of truth in this day and age, especially online. I was skeptical about angel numbers because there are many online publications reporting different definitions of popular number sequences.
For example, I am going to Google the meaning of ‘777’ and list what the top three results say:
- ‘Angel number 777 represents introspection, self-discovery, and solitude. It encourages finding inner peace and clarity in both career and relationships.’
- ‘Seeing angel number 777 means that your guardian angel is letting you know you are about to receive blessings and opportunities.’
- ‘Angel number 777 is considered to be a truly lucky number and is ripe with divine guidance, deep compassion, and strong intuition.’
So, which one is the true meaning? Or is it all three?
I couldn’t determine which definition was true, but through my research, I gathered the best way to find out was by consulting a certified angel therapy practitioner.
How do you become a certified angel therapy practitioner?
Many experienced angel therapy practitioners who are vastly knowledgeable in their practice offer courses to others interested in receiving their certification or learning how to connect with the angelic realm. Courses provide tools that help you strengthen your connection with angels and expand it.
I didn’t find a definite answer when I researched which certification courses were the most accredited. I found a decent amount of people offering it and was curious which one was the best.
If you find a practitioner you are interested in working with, my only recommendation is to do your research beforehand. Just like when you are looking for a new hairdresser or doctor — education, experience, qualifications, and recommendations matter.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, angel numbers are more than just a popular trend. The idea that numbers could convey signs and messages can be traced back to the sixth century with Pythagorean numerology.
Everyone has the ability to communicate with angels by asking, listening, and looking for signs. If you are interested in learning more, consult a certified angel therapy practitioner.
Comment below: What has been your experience with angel numbers?
