An Introduction to Tarot Numerology
In the Tarot, numbers are important – as important as the images and card titles. Tarot Numerology carries a vibration and gives us a world of information if we know what to look for and how to interpret it. Not only are the individual numbers important but so are repetitions and the sum total of the numbers in a spread can be used for an overall theme. The latter is called ‘taking the quint.’ Quint is short for quintessence a term used in alchemy and medieval philosophy.
Quintessence means ‘the fifth element’ and refers to the matter which makes up the heavenly bodies. This fifth essence or element was thought by alchemists to be able to turn base matter from the other four elements into gold and was referred to as ‘the philosopher’s stone.’
The only numbers you will see repeated are the numbers 1-10 since they occur among the Minors as well as the Majors:
The Number 1
The Magician‘s number. This number means new beginnings and refers to the Self, which is always the starting point for any knowledge we accumulate. This is the seed, potential or impetus. It is a gift because nothing comes from nothing, so when we have a new idea, it is inspired from on high and when we fall in love, we do so because someone awakens love in us. Aces resonate to this vibration, as do The Sun (1+9) and The Wheel (1+0). Go deeper into the numerological meaning of the number one HERE.
The Number 2
The High Priestess‘s number. This number is one of reflection, duality, polarity and emotional instability. It creates uncertainty, doubt, ambiguity, relating, and knowing and either forces a choice or transcendence via silence/stillness. Besides the 2’s, the Justice (1+1) and Judgement (2+0) cards also carry the vibration of the number 2.
The Number 3
The Empress‘s number. This is the number of Nature. 3 is fertility, chaos, birth, creativity, growth and synergy. This energy makes us want to expand and take risks because we are driven by desire, the same desire that makes the earth green each spring. Besides the 3s, the Hanged Man (1+2) and The World (2+1) also resonate with the 3.
The Number 4
The Emperor‘s number. This is the number of stability, mercy, authority and organisation. Here we have the four corners of the world, the four elements and the four legs of the table or throne. The energy of the 4 makes us want to hold onto what we have and play it safe. Besides the 4s, XIII Death also carries the vibration of the number 4 (13=1+3=4).
The Number 5
The Hierophant‘s number. This is the number of lessons big and small. 5 stands for learning, adaptability, flexibility, change and conflict. It can be used to contemplate the five wounds of Christ. This energy is known as that of the ‘rolling stone’ because fives are always on the move. Besides the 5s, this number also resonates with Temperance (1+4).
The Number 6
The Lovers’ number. This is the number of charity, harmony, beauty and radiance. 6 is associated with the Christ sphere, Tiphereth, on the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Sixes concern themselves with society and making everyone feel included. Besides the four Minors, The Devil (1+5) also shares this resonance. The energy of the 6 is strong. However, it is usually transient since the harmony of the middle pillar of harmony where Tiphereth is located struggles to manifest for any length of time in 3D.
The Number 7
The Chariot’s number. This is the number of discipline, forward movement, patience, willpower and cunning. 7 is the ‘bridge number’ because it connects the mundane realm (four corners of the world) with the divine (holy trinity). Its energy is highly analytical and not very sociable. Chess is a very 7 vibration game. In addition to the four 7s, it also resonates with The Tower (1+6).
The Number 8
Strength’s number. The number of strength, kindness, eternity and compassion. 8 is the most powerful of the yin (even) numbers. It asks us to own and take responsibility for our god-given power, as well as to cultivate it with kindness. In addition to the eights, The Star (1+7) also carries this vibration. 8 is where the Higher Self gently guides the little self to forfeit short-term satisfaction for long-term gain.
The Number 9
The Hermit’s number. It is the most introspective of the yang (odd) numbers. Nine is a number of contemplation and deep wisdom. It is concerned with service and the Greater Good. It is the number of the Master Teacher. We may receive signs in the form of the number 9 when we are ready to sum up an important life lesson so that we can pass the wisdom along. It is also said to be the number of the Goddess. As well as being present (of course) in all the Minor Arcana 9s, we also find this energy resonating in The Moon card (1+8).
The Number 10
The number of The Wheel. This is the number of cycles, new beginnings, pinnacle experiences and endings. It contains the seed of the 1 and the 0 of the void which we must all pass through as we leave the old and familiar behind. We reap what we have sown here, for better or for worse and it is the seeds of this harvest that decide what comes next. We are asked let go and let God if we wish to be at peace, rather than to cling or despair. Here we find the 10’s of the Minor Arcana in resonance, as well as The Magician and The Sun.
What About the Tarot Numerology of the Court Cards?
So the question I hear you asking next is, of course, ‘How do we take the quint when there are Court Cards in the mix since they don’t have numbers?’ I’m ever so glad you asked! It’s quite simple really: Pages = 11, Knights = 12, Queens = 13 and Kings = 14.
Typically, you would take the quint for smaller spreads such as these three-card spreads:
- past-present-future
- situation-challenge-action advice
- you-them-synergy
- mind-body-spirit
- morning-noon-evening
- situation-do more-do less
Another way to work with Tarot Numerology is calculating your birth cards and your year card.
Repeating numbers in any given reading puts the focus more on the numerological meanings. Here is a key for meanings when you are dealing with pairings and multiples in love tarot readings… but you can also think of these repetitions in terms of Angel Numbers if you prefer.
