The groundbreaking work of R.A. Schwaller De Lubicz brought new insight into our understanding of Numbers and Symbolism. A number of authors have duplicated his work, using titles such as “Sacred Geometry”, “the Flower of Life”, etc. In essence, all these names apply the same principles. An understanding of the basic principles on which this science is based, could be used as a valuable tool in Self-transformation. Xeper!
The Philosophy of Number
The philosophy of number is based on the functional character of number (1). Yet, we reduce number to the concept of “measure”, that is, to a definition of “quantity”. Modern science tries to quantify almost everything and even the lay have been forced to think along these lines. This removes the esoteric character of Number, which resides in the “function” that it reveals and not in the measure that it specifies or counts.
We do not attribute the notion of division to the number Two. It is the number Two that implies the process of dualization from which our understanding of division derives. It is therefore antithetical to current belief. This phenomenon is not accidental. It is cosmic, the conscious revelation of our innate knowledge and represents a form of consciousness (2).
Number Symbolism
With regard to the esoteric character of number, we must avoid the following mistake: Two is not One plus One; it is not a composite, it is the multiplying power; it is the consciousness of multiplication; it is the multiplying Work; it is the notion of the plus in relation to the minus; it is a new unity; physis, the neter Two. As we progress from one number to another, each number not only symbolizes and defines the specific function allotted to it, but incorporates all combinations of functions leading to it.
In order, we will now have a closer look at each number and the symbolism used to define it:
The Monad
The absolute state is the first number: the irreducible One. All manifestation is therefore initially a result of addition, and then of multiplication of this first Unity.
The Duad
Two expresses fundamental opposition, polarization. Polarity is fundamental to all phenomena: Set – Horus, plus – minus, day – night, man – women, logic – reason.
The TriadThe Force that holds Two apart! We can not know it by the rational faculties, we understand it- love desire, affinity, attraction, repulsion, interaction. It is also the Number of the Holy Trinity. The heart, not head, understands Three.
The Tetrad
Material, substance, things; the physical world is the matrix of all sensuous experiences. Two and Three do not account for substance. Man, women and love does not implicate marriage. Four represents the basic elements of matter- earth, water, fire and air (wind). It is the principle of substantiality.
The Pentad
Five is the first “universal” number, the number of “life”. From the roots of Two, Three and Five all the harmonic proportions can be derived. It provides the key to the vitality of the universe, its creative nature.
The Hexad
The actualization of potentiality, within the framework of time and space. It is therefore called the “Number of the material world”. Numbers 1 to 5 are invisible. Six is different. Volume requires six directions. Used as a symbol of actualization in space.
The Heptad
Six terms are insufficient to account for the process of “coming-into-being”. It is the number of growth. Seven terms are needed to account for the principle of growth. Phenomena tend to completion in seven stages. There are seven tones in the harmonic scale.
The Ogdoad
The eighth zodiac, Scorpio, traditionally symbolizes death, sex, renewal. It is a renewal of self-replication. In Egypt, the text declares: “I am One, who becomes Two, who Becomes Four, who Becomes Eight, and then I am One again”.
The Ennead
Nine represents the triads of Egyptian Neters. There can be no mistaking the importance of the Number Nine. It is complex and almost insusceptible of expression. Nine represents the Grand Ennead- interpenetrating, interacting, interlocked. It emanates from the Absolute, or “central fire”. It is the symbolic analog of the original Unity.
Number Mysticism and Daily Life
The Number System is process philosophy at its best. It provides a practical tool for exploring the unknown, based on a systematic breakdown of events/ phenomena. Every phenomenon manifests in three stages, as the archaic symbolism of the circle teaches us; the cycles of polarization, ideation, and formation (3). Each Number fits perfectly into this cycle.
The cycle of polarization is the “causal” circle. In the cycle of ideation, the first polarity- which has necessarily become the new cause- is distinguished by “energetic creation”. This means that in order to constitute the root of its future form, the first pole establishes lines of force whose quantity and quality vary with its nature. Here, a cause, or idea appropriates other similar unities in order to fix the form in three directions: height, weight depth and size. Hence the characteristic of this part of the cycle is formative growth.
Numbers and Consciousness
This brief excursion into the relationship between Number and function is not complete or exhaustive. It is meant to serve as preparation for the posing of several questions, or the resolution of a number of processes. No one can question the practical application of the Number System, as it provides a systematic approach to events and is very useful in this regard, even from within a magical perspective. It provides an analytic approach towards change. It elucidates mechanisms. Understanding brings knowledge, also of the Self. This is consciousness. It is the essence of what we seek. Xeper.
1. Schwaller de Lubicz, R.A. 1998. The Temple of Man. Inner Traditions International: Rochester, Vermont.
2. West, J.A. 1993. The Serpent in the Sky. The High Wisdom of Ancient Egypt. Quest Books: Wheaton, Illinois.
3. Schwaller de Lubicz, R.A. 1986. A Study of Numbers. A guide to the constant creation of the universe. Inner Traditions International: Rochester, Vermont.
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