Miyam's Corner

The AlefBeit

2008-02-26T07:12:00.000-08:00

The Hebrew AlefBeit is a mystical one. Each letter has its own set of properties, which reveal the silent mysteries of the universe. It is through these letters that the universe was created. For God “spoke” and the universe came into being.

What God “spoke” was sound, and that sound was Hebrew.

Early and medieval mystics created alternate alphabets based upon the Hebrew AlefBeit. They did this to conceal the secrets they had gleaned. An example of an alternate alphabet is the Celestial Alphabet, which is a mapping of the Hebrew letters to the constellations in the night sky.

Breath from Breath.
With it One engraved and carved
22 Foundation Letters
Three Mothers
Seven Doubles
and Twelve Elementals
And one Breath is from them. ^{^[1]}

Alef

Spiritual Representation: Air, Breath, Spirit (as in wind, Ruach)
Mundane Representation: Ox
Classification: One of the three mother letters
Association: The element of air

Alef is the first letter of the AlefBeit, yet it is silent. Its behavior as a letter alludes to its meeting. The Torah begins with a Beit….BeReishit. That is because before beginning, the earth was astonishingly empty. [2] The soundless alef alludes to this. It is the first letter of the word echad (singularity, unity) and also the first letter of many of God’s names.

Substance out of chaos
Nonexistence into existence
Great pillars carved from air
that cannot be grasped.
This is a sign
[Alef with them all and all of them with Alef]
all that is formed and all that is spoken:
one Name. [3]

Alef is a very holy letter because it not only represents one, but its form may be dissected into a Vav and two Yuds, which has the same numerical value as God’s sacred name.

The form of the letter is described as a Yud above and a Yud below with a Vav separating and uniting them simultaneously. Thus, the alef is symbolic of the division of the higher and lower waters with the firmament (also translated as sky.) God said, 'There shall be a firmament in the middle of the water and it shall divide between. [4]

Alef represents the element of air and signifies the Divine Breath (Spirit) of God that hovered above the waters of the deep before beginning while also representing the division of these waters.

On a more mundane level, Alef is thought to represent an ox (gross physical reality) as the lower animal soul.

Alef symbolizes a ladder that links the mundane to the spiritual and reaches heavenward.

Where is the Holy Palace? We would say that it is in thought and the alef. ^{^[5]}

The Hebrew letter Aleph connects the path from Gevurah (courage) to Chesed (mercy) on the Tree of Life.

[1] 1:10 Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Formation

[2] Genesis 1:2

[3] Sefer Yetzirah

[4] Genesis 1:6

[5] The Bahir

The Four Worlds

2008-02-25T05:16:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 43:7: Even every one that is called by My Name (Atzilut): for I have created (Beriyah) them for my glory, I have formed them (Yetzirah); yea, I have made them (Asiyah).

Atzilut
The World of Emanation

This is the realm of pure spirit. The Universe of Atzilut represents a beginning. It is an abstract idea or desire not yet formulated. The process of emanation is one of concealment and revelation, i.e., the process of revealing the essence of that which had been concealed. The three lower worlds are all created realms.

Atzilut is derived from a word meaning "nearness". It is the nearest to Ein Sof, the Infinite Unknowable.

Fire is the element associated with Atzilut. White is the associated color. Atzilut is the pure garment of Being.

The soul of Chayah is associated with this world. Chayah, Living Soul, is beyond our grasp while we are alive. It surrounds us and influences us through our Neshamah (Higher Self).

Beriyah
The World of Creation

The Universe of Beriyah represents thought. This is a realm of distinctly willed creation. If the World of Emanation is Spiritual, then the World of Creation is cerebral. While in relation to its own state of reality the world of Atzilut is a world of "non-existence" (ayin), the world of Beriyah is one of "potential existence" (yesh). This is the world of yesh m'ayin, something from nothing.

This realm is associated with the color blue [indigo] and the element of air, the element most associated with the intellect.

This is the realm of the Throne-Chariot with its seven halls or palaces. The world of Beriyah is the realm of the archangels. It is also the spiritual abode of the seraphim ("fiery angels"). These are the angles that exclaim to God: "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts; the whole earth is full of God’s glory."

The neshamah soul-aspect is associated with this world. Neshamah, the Higher Self, is that part of us that is always spiritually connected. It is the source of inner wisdom. The Neshamah is the highest level that we can reach while in physical incarnation.

Yetzirah
The World of Formation

The third world is that of Formation, Yetzirah. Formation is a bringing together of elements, rather than a creation from out of nothing. This is the world of yesh m'yesh, something from something.

Yetzirah is the highly psychic and emotionally charged world immediately behind the veil of material existence. Yetzirah is the unconscious mind. It is associated with the element of water. Its color is royal blue, which also suggests the color of deep water.

Yetzirah is the dynamic world of transition with "lower angels" carrying out the will of God from Beriyah to Asiyah. It is the chief domain of the angels, the chayot hakodesh, the living creatures."

Yetzirah is the realm of the Ego, the personal self, the Ruach soul. Ruach, the Moral Soul, is concerned with more than just our own physical needs and wants. It is the ability to truly understand the difference between right and wrong.

Asiyah
The World of Action

The Universe of Asiyah is the abstract idea brought into manifestation. It is represented by the element of earth. Its color is red (scarlet), the color of earth (adama) and the color of blood.

Asiyah is enlivened by nefesh, the vital principle, a soul-element possessed by plants as well as animals. Nefesh, the Vital Soul, is the lowest level of the soul. It is that part which keeps the physical body animated and alive, and as a result, its main concern is only with one's physical needs.

Asiyah is the abode of Samael, the Blind One, the husband of Lilith. It is also the world of the Ophanim.

Four Worlds Comparative Table

World: Atzilut
Name: Emanation
Represents: Pure Will
Element: Fire
Color: White
Soul: Chayah

World: Beriyah
Name: Creation
Represents: Thought
Element: Air
Color: Light Blue
Soul: Neshamah

World: Yetzirah
Name: Formation
Represents: Emotion
Element: Water
Color: Royal Blue
Soul: Ruach

World: Asiyah
Name: Action
Represents: Physical Reality
Element: Earth
Color: Red
Soul: Nefesh

Kabbalah and the Nature of Creation

2008-02-19T09:08:00.000-08:00

Preeminence

Yud

A spark of impenetrable darkness flashed within the concealed of the concealed from the mystery of Ein Sof, the Infinite, like a fog forming in formlessness, enclosed in the ring of that sphere - not white, not black, not red, not green – of no color whatever.

From the spark, a flame, which yielded radiant colors; from the innermost center of the flame sprang a well from which colors spread upon everything below concealed within the concealed of the mystery of Ein Sof.

The well broke through and did not break through. It split and did not split its aura. It was not known at all until a hidden, supernal point shone forth under the impact of the final breaking through.

And the secret is…In the beginning ----- created God.[1]

The Named was born from the unnamed ... the describable world emanates from an indescribable source.

Yud is the first letter of the most sacred name for God; YHVH. Its diminutiveness is representative of the Infinite Point; i.e. the concentration of the infinite within the finite.

It suggests the Unknowable attempting to become manifest through Divine Creation. The secret of this point is the power of the Infinite to contain finite phenomena and express them to apparent external reality. [2]

All that is formed and all that is spoken is One Name – YHVH.

Creation

Alef ----------> Beit

By the word of the Lord the heavens were made and with the breath of God ^{^[3]}

In the beginning is BeReishit. BeReishit is Beit Reishit.

How is this accomplished? With the Breath of God (Alef). Thus it is written that the Wind of God hovered over the deep…

Substance out of chaos
Nonexistence into existence
Great pillars carved from air
that cannot be grasped.
This is a sign
[Alef with them all and all of them with Alef] ^{^[4]}

Heaven and Earth

Alef

Shin Mem

Now the earth was unformed and void and darkness was upon the face of the deep; and the spirit of God hovered over the face of the waters. [5] And God said: 'Let there be a firmament [sky] in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.' And God called the firmament Heaven [Shaymayim]. [6]

We are taught that heaven [Shaymayim] means Esh Mayim (fire water). [7] Further, we are taught that the alef is symbolic of the Breath of God.

From the spark, a flame, which yielded radiant colors; from the innermost center of the flame sprang a well from which colors spread upon everything below. [8]

The alef is the Holy Place, and the Holy Place is in thought and the alef. The alef reveals God as an absolute unity.[9]

The Mem exists as a bridge between Hod and Netzach [between the forms of prophecy] to bring forth knowledge. [10]

The Shin exists to bring about a single goal: the Rulership of God. The Shin reveals a multitude of God’s deeds with a unity of purpose.[11]

Three mothers: Alef Mem Shin

A great mystical secret

And from them emanated air, water and fire [12]

That which is above influences that which is below. That which is below influences that which is above.

What did he [Moses] do? He gathered all three together, and out of them he made a single house.^{^[13]}

[1] The Zohar – adapted from translations by Daniel C. Matt, Zohar: Annotated & Explained, Skylight Paths Publishing, 2002; Gershom Scholem, Zohar: The Book of Splendor: Basic Readings form the Kabbalah, Schocken Books, 1949; Rabbi Moshe Miller, Zohar: Bereishit I, Fiftieth Gate Publications and Seminars, 2000

[2] http://www.inner.org/hebleter/yud.htm

[3] Psalm 33:6

[4] Sefer Yetzirah

[5] Genesis 1:2

[6] Genesis 1:6

[7] The Bahir

[8] The Zohar – adapted from translations by Daniel C. Matt, Zohar: Annotated & Explained, Skylight Paths Publishing, 2002; Gershom Scholem, Zohar: The Book of Splendor: Basic Readings form the Kabbalah, Schocken Books, 1949; Rabbi Moshe Miller, Zohar: Bereishit I, Fiftieth Gate Publications and Seminars, 2000

[9] Rabbi ben haKana, The Bahir: Illumination, translated by Aryeh Kaplan, Samuel Weiser, Inc., 1979

[10] Aryeh Kaplan, Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Creation: In Theory and Practice, Samuel Weiser, Inc, 1997

[11] Ibid

[12] Sefer Yetzirah 3:2

[13] The Bahir. Please note that in the Bahir [Moses] is Shin.

Tarot: The Star of David Spread

2008-01-17T08:54:00.000-08:00

The Star of David, also known as the Shield of David, is a hexagram; a six-sided star. During the middle ages, it was used by Kabbalists as the Seal of Solomon. The symbol itself has many meanings and it is one of those meanings that is presented below.

[On the sixth day,] God said: 'Let us make Man in our image, after our likeness. And God created Man in the image of God. And God blessed them.’

God [Yud-Hay] created Man in God’s Image [Beit-Yud]. In the Image of God, male [Beit-Vav] and female [Beit-Hay] God created them [Lamed-Beit].

In Me [Beit-Yah], in him [Beit-Vav], in her [Beit-Hay], one heart [Lamed-Beit].

Let Us make Man in Our image…in the image of heaven and the heavenly hosts, which are fire and water.

Eve’s Hebrew name, Chava, is derived from Chai, which means life. Eve retains the spiritual essence of Man. Adam, whose name derives from Adamah (earth) and Adom (red), retains the physical essence of Man. Adam and Eve were thus born Man as compliments to one another.

And Adam and Eve disobey God and are expelled from the Garden. They are bound together by Eternal decree and must rely upon one another for food and sustenance and upon God’s favor for rain.

And it shall come to pass if you surely listen to the commandments
that I command you today, to love the Lord your God,
and to serve God with all your heart and all your soul,

That I will give rain to your land, the early and the late rains,
that you may gather in your grain, your wine and your oil.

And I will give grass in your fields for your cattle and you will eat and you will be satisfied. [1]

They are bound together by Eternal decree and must rely upon one another for food and sustenance.

Vav signifies that they are joined (bound together). Gimel implies the sacrifice they must each make to one another to survive. Lamed represents the things that they must teach and learn from one another. Samech is the support they must give one another. Zayin is the planting for sustenance and the sowing of the seeds of their relationship. And the foundation of it all is the faith [Nun] in God.

The Star of David Spread is used to determine specific, predictive outcomes. The seven cards are laid out in the order and pattern illustrated below.

The meaning of the cards is as follows:

1. Past Event

2. Present

3. Immediate Future

4. Base of the Matter

5. Opportunity

6. Limitation

7. Final Outcome

[1] Deuteronomy 11:13

Tarot: The Menorah Spread

2008-01-16T12:37:00.000-08:00

A menorah is a seven-branched candelabrum that is one of the oldest symbols in the Jewish faith. Its construction was described in Exodus and it was built for use in the Tabernacle in the wilderness. The light of the menorah symbolizes illumination (knowledge) and has been attributed as a symbol of The Tree of Life, the Seven Days of Creation and the burning bush of Moses.

The menorah spread is used as a tool for illumination and self-development. It utilizes 22 cards, mirroring the 22 flower cups of the one described in Exodus.

The cards are laid out in the order and the pattern illustrated below:

The meanings of the cards are as follows:

Arm 1

Cards 1, 2, 3

Governs: Self Image (Negative aspect: Pride, Positive Aspect: Humilty)

Arm 2

Cards 4, 5, 6

Governs: Personality (Negative aspect: Shallowness, Positive Aspect: Humility)

Arm 3

Cards 7, 8, 9

Governs: Emotion (Negative aspect: Anger, Envy, Positive Aspect: Calm Benevolence)

Arm 4

Cards 10, 11, 12

Governs: Intellect (Negative aspect: Cunning, Positive Aspect: Wisdom)

Arm 5

Cards 13, 14, 15

Governs: Relationships (Negative aspect: Lascivious, Positive Aspect: Loving)

Arm 6

Cards 16, 17, 18

Governs: Finances (Negative aspect: Greed, Positive Aspect: Charity)

There should be a balance in the cards, reflecting both negative and positive aspects in the 6 arms or branches of the menorah.

The Center Column provides guidance:

Card 19 = what is most in balance

Card 20 = what is out of balance

Card 21 = what is needed to restore the balance

Card 22 = the base of the matter - what is taking things off-kilter

Kabbalah: A Very Brief Overview

2008-01-14T09:49:00.000-08:00

The word Kabbalah means to receive and is used to denote the collection of thought, teachings and writings of Hebrew mysticism. The earliest known texts of Kabbalah can be traced back to the second temple period, but the more formal aspects of Kabbalah emerged in the early middle ages. The first version (there are many versions) of Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Formation was compiled in the tenth century, however quotes from it were cited in texts appearing as early as the sixth century of the common era.

While initially, there were two divergent branches of Kabbalah: the Account of the Chariot and the Account of Creation, the latter branch of writing was to survive and be found in the collective books known as Kabbalah today. These writings are comprised of Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Formation, The Bahir: Illumination (or light), and The Zohar: Splendor (Radiance.) Although written after Sefer Yetzirah and the Bahir, the books and writings of the Zohar are considered by many to be the central text of Kabbalah, commenting and explaining the Torah in terms of the Sephirot of the Tree of Life.

If you asked those not deeply familiar with teachings and the books of Kabbalah to explain its concept, invariably, someone will say, it’s the Tree of Life. Unfortunately that is a very simplistic view of Kabbalah, which is, in its entirety, a treatise to enable one to attain a higher understanding of and the means to become closer to God. This was done, in its various forms, through an exploration of teachings and writings that were handed down from the beginning. On one level, it seeks to explain the deeper meanings of the passages of the Torah to understand the hidden messages given by God. On another level it seeks to explain the act of creation and the emanation and the structure of the universe from God. Both of these are used by students to gain an understanding and to walk the path that will enables a seeker to get closer to God.

That being said, the Tree of Life is a critical concept within Kabbalah and, therefore, the first concept, beyond knowledge of the Torah and the Tanach that the seeker must grasp.

The Tree of Life

Sefer Yetzirah begins with the following paragraph:

[1:1] With thirty-two mystical paths of Wisdom, Yah, Lord of Hosts, God of Israel, Living God, Ruler of the Universe, El Shaddai, Almighty God, High and Extolled, Dwelling in Eternity, Whose name is Holy, engraved and created the Universe in three Sepharim: in writing, number and word. Ten Sephirot out of nothing, twenty-two foundation letters, three mothers, seven doubles and twelve simples.

The thirty-two mystical paths of Wisdom refer to the ten sephirot of the Tree of Life and the 22 letters of the AlefBeit, which serve to connect them.

[1:7] Ten Sephirot made of Nothing. Their end is embedded in their beginning; their beginning in their end, like a flame in a burning coal. For the Master is singular, without peer. And before one, what do you count?

The Sephirot emerged from Ein Sof through Keter. Ein Sof is the primal cause of all that exists. Ein Sof, Cause of Causes, causes Keter (also called Ayin – Nothingness and the Root of Roots) is the crown of the Tree of Life and represents the Will.

Concerning Ein Sof, there is no aspect anywhere to search or probe; nothing can be known of it, for it is hidden and concealed in the mystery of absolute nothingness. ^{^[1]}

Ein Sof is the absolute perfection in which there are no distinctions and no differentiations, and according to some even no volition. It does not reveal itself in a way that makes knowledge of its nature possible and it is not accessible even to the innermost thought ... of the contemplative. ^{^[2]}

The concept is the first step in the manifestation of Ein-Sof is Ayin (nothingness). It affirms that there is a realm which no created being can intellectually comprehend, and which, therefore, can only be defined as "nothingness.” ^{^[3]} The true essence of God cannot be grasped by anyone but God. ^{^[4]}

From Keter, a second point emanated in a second revelation; the first revelation being the point of light emanation from Ein Sof. This second point, Chokhmah (wisdom), is also called Yesh (being). It is also called yesh me-ayin, which means being from nothingness.

Chokhmah is regarded as the first creative act of the infinite, Ein Sof, and, as such, is frequently referred to as BeReishit (beginning). It is said: "You have made them all with Chokhmah." The first words of the Torah, "In the beginning (God created the heavens and the earth)," is understood to mean "With Chokhmah."

When the Chokhmah emanated from the second revelation, it required a third point to reveal what exists. Chokhmah is the beginning of being and not being. It requires Binah (understanding) to interpret it. Binah is associated in particular with the power to grasp and comprehend the insights of Chokhmah.

Thus it is written:

The Lord founded the earth by wisdom; By understanding God established the heavens. ^{^[5]}

These three Sephirot, also known as the upper Sephirot, represent the act of creation. From Nothing, and with Wisdom and Understanding, the Universe was created.

In the beginning (BeReishit) God created the heaven and the earth. Now the earth was unformed and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep; and the Spirit of God (The Shekhinah) hovered over the face of the waters.^{^[6]}

In the beginning, there was a void (Ayin – nothingness), and the Divine Presence hovered over the deep. And God said, “Let there be light (Wisdom and Understanding.)” The light was the Wisdom and Understanding by which all else was formed. This is known because God created Heaven on the second day and the sun, moon and stars on the fourth day.

It is through these three sephirot that the remaining sephirot emanated and by which the universe was formed.

[1] Daniel Matt

[2] Gershom Scholem

[3] Gershom Scholem

[4] Daniel Matt

[5] Proverbs 3:19

[6] Genesis 1:1-2

Tarot: The Medi Arcana

2008-01-09T07:14:00.000-08:00

The Medi Arcana

The Medi Arcana, also known as the court cards, contains 12 archetypes and four messengers (also called the pages in some decks.) The twelve archetypes: King, Queen and Knight of the four suits, each correspond to a distinct astrological sign, such that the King of Wands is Ares, The Queen is Leo and so on.

The remaining four cards are messengers, representing the four directions on a plane.

The Medi Arcana represents the heavens providing signs and messages for guidance. The suits of the Medi Arcana revert to the elements of their cardinal points. Such that wands = fire, cups = water and so on.

Suit Cardinal Point Element

Wands South Fire

Cups West Water

Swords East Air

Coins North Earth

Each of the suits is comprised of three people (archetypes and signs) and a messenger bearing a message. There are two men and one woman. One of the men represents an older, more stable view of the suit while the other represents a younger, rasher version of the characteristics. The female represents the balance between the two. The significator is always chosen from one of these three.

Significator

The significator is a card that represents the querant or reader. Women should chose from one of the four elemental women by considering the hair and eye color along with the personality represented by the card. Men should chose one of the male cards by consider the same along with their age, circumstances and outlook. For example, an older man, who is single with a youthful outlook, may be represented by the younger man.

Element Fire

Personality People represented by fire are those with personal initiative; particularly those who started out disadvantaged. These people are future-oriented, entrepreneurial, and inventive; they initiate action.

Hair Color Red

Eye Color Light

Element Water

Personality People represented by water suggest attitudes of compassion, caring, generosity, affection, friendliness, sociability, emotional support, and joy.

Hair Color Medium

Eye Color Blue, brown

Element Air

Personality People represented by air are direct, forthright and can be brutally honest. They possess strength of conviction and tend to have strong opinions on proper conduct and behavior.

Hair Color Light

Eye Color Light

Element Earth

Personality People represented by earth are hard-working, solid, practical, secure and reliable.

Hair Color Dark

Eye Color Dark

In a Reading

In a reading, the people of the Medi Arcana may represent one of three things; an actual person, an objective or qualities.

Person – represents someone known to the querant.

Objective – signifies the objective of the querant. For example, the Queen of Swords as an objective would represent the desire for the truth or possibly for moral understanding.

Qualities – indicates a need to adopt these qualities.

The Messengers: The Four Winds

The messengers of the bible are the four winds, which are depicted as horses. It is through these winds that God delivers judgment and reprieve.

I looked in the night and behold a man riding upon a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle-trees that were in the bottom; and behind him there were horses, red, sorrel, and white. Then I said: 'O my lord, what are these?' And the angel that spoke with me said to me: 'I will show you what these are.' And the man that stood among the myrtle-trees answered and said: 'These are they whom the Lord has sent to walk to and fro through the earth.' And they answered the angel of God that stood among the myrtle-trees, and said: 'We have walked to and fro through the earth, and, behold, all the earth sits still, and is at rest.' ^{^[1]}

And again I lifted up my eyes, and saw, and, behold, there came four chariots out from between the two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of brass. In the first chariot were red bay horses; and in the second chariot black horses; and in the third chariot white horses; and in the fourth chariot spotted horses. Then I answered and said to the angel that spoke with me: 'What are these, my lord?' And the angel answered and said: 'These are the four winds of heaven coming out after presenting themselves before the Lord of all the earth. That one with the black horses goes forth toward the north country; and the white one go to the west; and the spotted one went forth toward the south country; and the bay went forth'. And they sought to go that they might walk to and fro through the earth; and he said: 'Get you hence, walk to and fro through the earth.' So they walked to and fro through the earth. ^{^[2]}

Taleh

Key: King of Wands

Element: Fire
Representation: Older, more stable male

Person: Taleh is a great organizer that is full of flair and originality. He is a dynamic individual, who is never afraid to take chances. He is intuitive and articulate with the capacity to inspire others especially in projects, which have a clear outcome and do not require a long lead-time. He is a natural leader and can rally others to his cause regardless of how impossible it may seem. Taleh is aggressive and willful. He is a determined fighter and can be a powerful adversary if you oppose him strongly. He is unconcerned about how others may see him and will be the first to stand up in what he believes in – if he believes in it strongly.

Objective: This is a question of taking the initiative or taking a risk.

Qualities: If Taleh represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to action. The message is not to be afraid to take chances. It is up to the querant to take the imitative and others will follow.

Aryeh

Key: Queen of Wands

Element: Fire
Representation: Female

Person: Aryeh is confident and enthusiastic with a positive outlook and a love of life. She is the natural centre of attention and a genial host. She gets inordinate pleasure from helping others enjoy life as much as she does. Aryeh radiates warmth. Her enthusiasm, generosity and disposition inspire the affection of many friends and admirers. Aryeh works with dedicated commitment and approaches every challenge with perseverance looking for creative solutions. She places highest value on courage and personal honesty for herself as well as others. Aryeh can be unyielding and stubborn at times. She can be very proud and wants to be right.

Objective: This is of a question about a challenging situation and how to respond to it.

Qualities: If Aryeh represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to be strong and positive and look for a creative solution to the problem.

Keshet

Key: Knight of Wands

Element: Fire
Representation: Younger, rasher male

Person: Keshet is an idealist and is usually much in demand socially. He is charismatic and sexy and has a tendency to live on the edge as a confident risk-taker. He is extremely intelligent and is always looking to discover new things. Keshet loves to take on challenges. He can be callow and thoughtless as well as reckless and irresponsible. He gets bored and restless when surrounded by dull people or circumstances. Keshet thrives on excitement and will seek it despite the apparent danger. He values his freedom above all else. He does not hesitate to give an honest opinion, which can seem tactless at times.

Objective: This is of a question about a risky situation and whether to proceed.

Qualities: If Keshet represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to think carefully before rushing into something. Overconfidence is not warranted here and would be ill-advised at this time.

The South Wind

Key: Page of Wands

Element: Fire
Representation: A messenger with a message

I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz; his body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as torches of fire, and his arms and his feet like in color to burnished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude. ^{^[3]}

Message: A message of an opportunity to experience creativity, courage, charm and inspiration. An exciting opening that may excite and feed your talents.

Dagim

Key: King of Cups

Element: Water
Representation: Older, more stable male

Person: Dagim is a gentle man, who is wise and sincere. He is even-tempered and a good listener. He is fair-minded and not at all afraid to bend unbreakable rules should the situation demand a more humane approach. Dagim seems to know intuitively what is needed. He is open and tolerant and because of that others turn to him for advice and compassion. He is never judgmental. Dagim accepts the people around him and the circumstances in which they find themselves rather than trying to adapt them to suit him. He is a bit of a dreamer and finds routine work difficult. There are times when his sensitive and giving nature overwhelms him as others lean too heavily on him and take advantage.

Objective: This is a question of needing some advice and guidance.

Qualities: If Dagim represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to be more tolerant of others. Others need the querant’s support right now.

Sartan

Key: Queen of Cups

Element: Water
Representation: Female

Person: Sartan is a loving and sensitive woman. She is strongly intuitive and radiates a gentle calm. She is creative and romantic with a strong love of home, family and tradition. Sartan is very nurturing and protective. She is kind and compassionate to everyone and never reacts with anger or impatience. She is loyal, supportive and good at listening. Sartan is very in touch with her own emotions and senses the underlying emotions of others. She possesses a deep sensitivity and provides valuable and illuminating intuitions, especially regarding those she cares for. Sartan is extremely sensitive and can be easily hurt causing her to withdraw within. She is often moody.

Objective: This is a question about love and family.

Qualities: If Sartan represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to listen to their heart and to be in tune with the feelings of others.

Akray

Key: Knight of Cups

Element: Water
Representation: Younger, rasher male

Person: Akray is an intense, profound and powerful character. Even when he appears self-controlled and calm there is a seething intensity of emotional energy under his placid exterior. His depth of character and passionate conviction is overwhelming. Akray is deeply sensitive and easily moved by his emotions. This and a propensity for exhibiting extreme likes and dislikes makes him easily hurt, but he is not openly combative unless it becomes necessary. Although he is extremely volatile, he does not deal well with conflict and avoids difficult situations. Akray loves a good mystery and is drawn to secrets. The occult and mysticism appeal greatly to him. He possesses the ability to focus his attention or concentration on something to the point of understanding it completely.

Objective: This is a question about hurt feelings.

Qualities: If Akray represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to focus and be more grounded. It may also signify that things are not as bad as the querant may believe. It is possible that the querant is over-reacting.

The West Wind

Key: Page of Cups

Element: Water
Representation: A messenger with a message

God turned back a very powerful west wind and it carried the locust-swarm and hurled it toward the Sea of Reeds. ^{^[4]}

For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods. Whatever the Lord desires God does in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all depths; God makes clouds to rise from the ends of the earth; God makes lightning for the rain; He releases the wind from the vaults of heaven. ^{^[5]}

Message: A message of love. This card represents the opportunity to experience romance, deep feelings and the inner life.

D’li

Key: King of Swords

Element: Air
Representation: Older, more stable male

Person: D’li is extremely intelligent, analytical and honest. He holds himself aloof and tends to be eerily detached and personally uninvolved. He is always fair and impartial. He approaches problems without emotion, logically and detached. D’li sets high standards for himself and others around him and is very ethical. He is very loyal and trust-worthy. As an idealist, he champions the highest principles, while at the same time being an independent thinker. He is naturally skeptical, but once convinced he becomes firm in his determination to see things through. He is a visionary and is progressive. D’li loves to spend time thinking about how things can be better. He can be impatient and temperamental with those who disagree with him.

Objective: This is a question of judgment.

Qualities: If D’li represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to think logically and to remove the emotion from the situation.

Maznaim

Key: Queen of Swords

Element: Air
Representation: Female

Person: Maznaim is a forthright and honest person with a love of justice. She is very direct and has a strong sense of morality. Cruelty and vulgarity are abhorrent to her. She exemplifies elegance, charm and good taste. Maznaim is intelligent and knows when someone is not being fully honest. She is a strong woman who will set out to accomplish her chosen goals by finding ways to succeed, usually by using her wit and charm. She possesses a good critical faculty and is able to stand back and look impartially at matters which call for an impartial judgment. Maznaim is intolerant of argument from anyone challenging her conclusions, because to her its truth is self-evident.

Objective: This is a question about the truth.

Qualities: If Maznaim represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to consider both the hard truth and morality of the situation.

Teumim

Key: Knight of Swords

Element: Air
Representation: Younger, rasher male

Person: Teumim is an ingenious, quick-witted communicator. He is usually very much in demand socially because he is so entertaining. He is vitally interested in what's new and fashionable. Teumim prefers to sit back and analyze or control what is occurring around him. He is often restless and easily bored and can become frustrated by things moving too slowly. To Teumim life is a game which must always be full of fresh moves and continuous entertainment, free of labor and routine. He uses his charm and looks to get what he wants. He can be unscrupulous and cunning; escaping blame by contriving to put it on other people. He speaks clearly, directly and always with authority, however, his remarks can be cutting and rude. It is clear when he thinks something or someone is stupid and he expects others to see it the same way.

Objective: This is a question about how tactfully a given situation was handled.

Qualities: If Teumim represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to be more diplomatic and tolerant.

The East Wind

Key: Page of Swords

Element: Air
Representation: A messenger with a message

An east wind will come, a wind of God ascending from the wilderness, and his fountainhead will become parched and his spring will dry up. [Hosea 13:15]

When the east wind touches it, will it not completely whither? [Ezekiel 17:10]

With an east wind You smashed the ships of Tarshish. [Psalm 48:7]

Message: A message that brings challenges. This card represents an opportunity for growth in the guise of a difficult situation or problem.

Shor

Key: King of Coins

Element: Earth
Representation: Older, more stable male

Person: Shor is a hard-working and successful man. He is keen-witted and methodical more often than intellectual. He is calm, centered and very self-confident in an earthy and modest way. He is immensely practical and his primary concern is to maintain stability. Shor is enterprising and adept with a wide range of useful knowledge. He is dependable and responsible and is always willing to help others with time and / or money. He is deliberate and relaxed. He likes comfort and is willing to work hard for the things that make him happy. He has a steady and even temperament that adds an element of stability to any situation. It takes a lot to make Shor loose his temper, but when he does – watch out!

Objective: This is about a question about work.

Qualities: If Shor represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to be more responsible and to give of their time and / or money.

Betulah

Key: Queen of Coins

Element: Earth
Representation: Female

Person: Betulah is nurturing and motherly. She is warm and generous to everyone, yet very practical and grounded. She is unassuming, outwardly cheerful and agreeable. Betulah is extremely sensible, discreet, well spoken, wise and witty. She possesses a good understanding of other people's problems which she is capable of addressing with level-headedness. Betulah takes care of the little details and large problems with the same ease and focus. She combines mental ingenuity with the ability to produce a clear analysis of the most complicated problems. Betulah easily draws upon her own inner reserves and exhibits a quiet strength. She doesn’t concern herself too much with what is lacking and is able to make do with very little if the situation calls for it. Her quiet, plodding ways can make her appear pedantic and there is a tendency for her to be a perfectionist in all she does.

Objective: This is a question about home and family.

Qualities: If Betulah represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to take care of what is needed and not worry about what everyone else is doing or what they have.

Gedi

Key: Knight of Coins

Element: Earth
Representation: Younger, rasher male

Person: Gedi is tenacious, logical and endowed with the capacity to work hard and long. He rarely hesitates to grasp opportunities for advancement or promotion. He aspires to positions of power and authority and admires others who attain such positions. Gedi is a resourceful, determined manager. He sets high standards for himself and others. He respects discipline from above and demands it from those beneath him. He expects his underlings to be as self disciplined as he is, and to perform every task undertaken to the highest standard. In his methodical, tough, stubborn, unyielding way, he persists against personal hardship, putting his work first to reach his objectives. Gedi has a willingness to accept responsibilities, but a false pride makes it hard for him to admit when he is wrong or to ask others for help. He competes aggressively to achieve what he wants. He isn’t very warm and doesn’t have much of a sense of humor, nor does he have much time for play. Work always comes first. Gedi can be very cold and distant, pessimistic, and almost intolerably conventional. He also has a stubborn streak and reacts poorly to change.

Objective: This is a question about a conflict related to job position or a promotion.

Qualities: If Gedi represents qualities, then this card is urging the querant to lighten up and enjoy life. It is also suggesting that a little flexibility is called for.

The North Wind

Key: Page of Coins

Element: Earth
Representation: A messenger with a message

Behold, I send an angel before you to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place which I have prepared. Take heed of him and obey him. Do not defy him for he will not pardon your transgression; for My Name is in him. But if obey him and do all that I say then I will be an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries. ^{^[6]}

The Lord will place angels to guard you wherever you go. They will carry you upon their hands lest you hurt your foot against a stone. ^{^[7]}

Message: A message about money, luck or a good, unexpected turn in health. This card represents an opportunity for enrichment, comfort or the ability to make your dreams real.

[1] Zechariah 1:8

[2] Zechariah 6:1

[3] Daniel 10:5, 6

[4] Exodus 10:19

[5] Psalm 135: 5-7

[6] Exodus 23:20 – 22

[7] Psalm 91: 11, 12

A Note about Numerology

2008-01-08T09:12:00.000-08:00

Numerological Analysis is as complex as rendering an astrological chart and, while articles offered on this blog have provided the means to determine aspects of a person’s numerological chart, they, by no means, represent the full analytical picture.

A full numerological chart encompasses a full core trait analysis with extrinsic modifiers that interact with the core elements. Further, each of the core elements interact with one another and it is only through a detailed study of the core and the modifiers that a true picture of the subject emerges.

Take astrology, for example. Below is the basic description of an Aries:

An Aries is a great organizer that is full of flair and originality. They are a dynamic individual, who is never afraid to take chances. They are intuitive and articulate with the capacity to inspire others especially in projects, which have a clear outcome and do not require a long lead-time. They are natural leaders and can rally others to their cause regardless of how impossible it may seem. Aries are aggressive and willful. They are a determined fighter and can be a powerful adversary if you oppose them strongly. Aries are unconcerned about how others may see them and will be the first to stand up in what they believe in – if they believe in it strongly.

The above description is accurate, but will not yield a complete picture of an individual without looking at a full astrological chart, which encompasses the primary sign, the rising sign, the position of the planets in each of the houses and the aspects at the time and location of the individual’s birth.

The same is true of numerology. While the Life Path and Expression comprise 70% of the core, they must be viewed together along with the other core elements and any extrinsic modifiers such as karmic debts, intensity points and the growth number. It is only when these elements are viewed together that any real determination can be made.

Using Color to Enhance Personal Day Vibrations

2008-01-07T13:30:00.000-08:00

As discussed in prior articles, Numerology is an empirical science that is a method or means for discerning traits and characteristics, paths and opportunities, reactions and responses and likely successes and pitfalls. Numerological analysis methods utilize the birth name and birth date as the starting point from which numerous analysis elements are derived. Each element is weighted and compared against the others to construct a profile, which reveals the attributes, abilities, traits, attitudes and responses that are the individual’s very essence. Additionally, the analysis also illustrates the strength of these characteristics and the extent to which expression, growth and development may have been assisted or impacted by other modifying elements.

Numerology is also used to determine periods and cycles. These numbers define the experiences, difficulties and advantages that are likely to be or to have been present at different times during an individual’s life. They represent influences that the individual is likely to feel as well as a characterization of their attitude and responses during this time. Long term periods and cycles span decades and usually govern at least one stage of life. For example, challenge numbers represents the difficulties that an individual likely encountered during childhood. Short term periods and cycles are influences that span at most one year and can be described in periods as short as one day. The focus of this article is the short-term element known as the personal day.

Personal days are numbers, specific to the individual for a specific day, that indicate the influences that are likely to be felt along with the probable attitudes and responses to these influences. Personal days are determined using the following algorithm:

1. Determine the Numerological Year:

The Numerological year that you are in is determined by your month and day of birth as it relates to today’s date. Let’s take for example someone who is born on June 12^th. If today is May 15, 2000, the person’s Numerological Year is 1999, because they have not yet reached their birthday in the year 2000. Suppose someone was born on May 1. That person’s Numerological Year is 2000.

2. Determine the Universal Year:

This is accomplished by adding all of the digits in the Numerological Year together to reach a single digit. For the year 2000, the universal year is 2+0+0+0 = 2. For 1999, the universal year is 1+9+9+9 = 28; 2+8 = 10; 1+0 = 1. The universal year for 1999 is 1.

3. Determine the Personal Year:

The Personal Year is determined by adding the digits of your month and day of birth to the Universal Year. For example, if you were born on February 23 and your Universal Year is 2, then your Personal Year would be: 2+2+3+2 = 9. If you were born on November 21 and your Universal Year is 1, then your Personal Year would be: 1+1+2+1+1 = 6.

4. Determine the Personal Day

First select the date. Then add the month and day of the date to the Personal Year. For example, if the Personal Year is 5 and today’s date is May 15, the Personal Day would be: 5+1+5+5 = 16; 1+6= 7. The Personal Day would be 7.

Please note: the Personal Year was determined against today’s date. If you want to select a date in the future or the past, you will have to recalculate the Numerological Year, Universal Year and Personal Year.

Once the Personal Day is determined, use the chart below to determine the day’s vibration. You can affect the intensity of the vibration, either enhancing or diminishing the effect, by wearing specific colors. For example, a person may be very comfortable with the individual and assertive energy inherent in the 1 but may want to tone down those qualities on a work day that may call for cooperation and teaming. In this example, the person would want to select one of the colors that vibrate to the number 2; the number of partnership and cooperation. They should seek to dress primarily in that color.

Number: 1

Basic Meaning: Individuality and Leadership

Personal Day Vibration: An active day fill with creative energy and thoughts for new projects and enterprises. This is generally a good day to start an effort. If this is a core number you must be mindful not to be bossy and aggressive. Instead you should focus on your leadership ability and use your creativity toward problem solving and to propel an effort forward positively.

Enhancing Color(s): Red

Number: 2

Basic Meaning: Partnership and Cooperation

Personal Day Vibration: A good day to work with others and to focus on the details; the little things that may have been overlooked. This is a good day for relationship and friendships. Also a good vibration for keeping everyone focused on the issue at hand. You are capable of smoothly working with others to keep things moving forward. If this is a core number you must be careful not to become overly emotional or get caught up in feelings of being taken advantage of. You know that you can be overly sensitive.

Enhancing Color(s): Orange

Number: 3

Basic Meaning: Self-expression and Communication

Personal Day Vibration: A great day for taking things light and having fun. The number 3 has been characterized as representing “the Joy of Life.” This is a good day to be with friends and acquaintances or to meet with business associates to enhance existing relationships. You must be careful however not to indulge in gossip. This is true whether or not this is a core number. Also since this is a more light-hearted number this is not a good vibration for serious studies or concentration.

Enhancing Color(s): Yellow

Number: 4

Basic Meaning: Organization and Service

Personal Day Vibration: A good day to set about organizing, cleaning, and tying up loose ends. This is also a great day for more serious pursuits and studies. This vibration is business-oriented and as such it is also a good day to focus on business matters. If this is a core number you must be careful to avoid conflict. You must concentrate on listening and being open and flexible to other points of view and suggestions.

Enhancing Color(s): Green

Number: 5

Basic Meaning: Personal Freedom

Personal Day Vibration: Lots of surprises fill your day today and you should be prepared for the unexpected. Five is the number of the free spirit and it is filled with a longing for excitement, travel and change. This is not a good day for focus and concentration particularly for those with this number as a core trait. Be cautious of excesses.

Enhancing Color(s): Tan

Number: 6

Basic Meaning: Responsibility and Harmony

Personal Day Vibration: Today’s concerns focus on family, close friends and home. You may be called upon to rectify a situation or to be the referee. Others seek your assistance but you must be careful, especially if this is a core vibration, not to mistake interference for help. This is a good vibration for dealing with home matters and for resolving and harmonizing out of balance situations.

Enhancing Color(s): Blue

Number: 7

Basic Meaning: Introspection and Seclusion

Personal Day Vibration: This is a good day for research, individual projects and any task that requires deep analysis. This day may find you wanting to be removed from the mainstream activity so that you can concentrate and regroup. Your thoughts seem to wander and focus on troubling issues or questions that require deep analysis for resolution. Use today to spend time on activities that will give you that needed “away time”. If this is a core number meditation at some point in the day is essential. Also be careful not to be overly critical of your friends and family. Do not start arguments just to be alone; there are better ways to find solitude.

Enhancing Color(s): Purple

Number: 8

Basic Meaning: Finance and Senior Leadership

Personal Day Vibration: A good day to focus on financial, business and legal matters. This is a good day to balance your checkbook and review your accounts particularly if you are considering going shopping or making any type of major purchase. Watch the speed limit or you will have a very good chance of being stopped for a ticket. If this is a core number you will need to be more patient than usual and to make sure that you give other people a chance.

Enhancing Color(s): Black, Gray, White

Number: 9

Basic Meaning: Worldly and Charitable

Personal Day Vibration: This is a day for closure; to end the projects and tasks that were started under the number 1. This is also a day to take a loftier view of things; to step back and assess things from a more universal or worldly perspective. This will help you reach the conclusions that you need to. If this is a core number you must be careful not to react to others by being overly sensitive or argumentative.

Enhancing Color(s): Gold, Opal, White

A note on the Master Numbers: While this article demonstrated to beginners the means for determining Personal Days, more experienced practitioners, who wish to enhance the effect of the master numbers, eleven and twenty-two, may do so according to the following enhancing colors:

Eleven: Pink, Silver, Flesh, White.

Twenty-two: Red-brown, Red-gold.

The Secret of the Tarot

2008-01-04T20:33:00.000-08:00

No one really knows the origin of the Tarot. The first known, recorded deck emerged in Europe during the middle ages. There are some that believe that the cards originated in Egypt, while others believe that the Major Arcana is a record of the secret teachings of underground religious groups. For example, in the 19th century Eliphas Levi was convinced that the tarot had origins of far earlier than the 14th century. He saw a correlation of the tarot with the Hebrew system of mysticism, the Kabbalah. He saw the tarot as an essential tool to be used to develop a closer relationship with the Divine. ^{^[1]}

Both groups may, in essence, be correct. The origin of the Kabbalah has its sources in the theosophical currents that existed among the Jews of Egypt and Palestine in the early centuries of the Common Era. ^{^[2]} The wisdom of early Jewish mysticism was embodied in two major branches. The account of Ezekiel’s chariot (Ma’aseh Merkavah) formed one major branch; the other was Ma’aseh BeReishit (the account of creation.) These secret teachings were passed down orally through the centuries from master to disciple. ^{^[3]}

The height of the Middle Ages, the end of the twelfth century, saw a resurgence of interest and a renewal of Jewish Mysticism in the form of the Kabbalah, beginning with Sefer Ha Bahir, which was published around 1176 and followed by the Zohar, which was published at the end of the thirteenth century.^{^[4]} This renewed interest was thought to be related to the belief that revelation of a sort would return in 1216.^{^[5]}

The purpose of Jewish Mysticism is the quest for the secret path that leads to Divine Reality, which is the primordial unity of all things.^{^[6]} It is comprised of the immediate contact with God through the fundamental experience of the inner self. Jewish Mysticism is concerned with the exploration of the hidden divine life and the world of human kind and creation.^{^[7]}

At Sinai, God revealed to Moses the Divine Will, which was set down for generations in the form of the Torah. The study and analysis of the Torah as a means to internalize the Divine Will manifested itself in the Talmud. The means to come closer to the Divine manifested itself in the Kabbalah.

Cards similar to those we have today first appeared in Italy and France in the late 14^th century. ^{^[8]} The French word for the cards was Tarot. Examine the word closely and it will be noted that TAROT spelled in reverse is TORAT. Torat is the plural form of Torah, meaning that the cards could be a collection of mystical stories rooted in the Torah that contain the keys to the path that leads to a closer relationship with the Divine.

The Major Arcana

The Major Arcana of the Tarot is comprised of twenty-two cards beginning with the Initiate, sometimes called the Fool, at Key 0 and culminating in the World, Key 21. The sequence of keys represents a spiritual journey of enlightenment that begins with a novice and culminates with a deep, universal understanding (in the World).

There are twenty-two cards in the major arcana and twenty-two letters in the AlefBeit. Each key is associated with a letter and each letter reveals the deeper meaning of the card. For example, Key 0, the Initiate is associated with Hebrew Letter Nun.

God Faithful Ruler is El Melech Nehehman in Hebrew. The initials, Alef, Mem, and Nun when taken together form the acronym, Amen. In Aramaic, Nun means fish. Nun is also closely related to N’Nun, which means to sprout or to blossom. The Hebrew letter Nun stands for Nehehman, faithful. Taken together – the secret of Nun – is that sprouting faith should be as abundant as fish in the oceans.

The lesson of Nun is to have faith. Faith, in this instance, is not a simple proclamation of belief, but a knowingness that comes from a holistic grasping of things that are beyond rational analysis. By developing this type of faith, we get in touch with our own intuition and a deeper wisdom that can guide our lives.

When taken together, Key 0, the Initiate represents a new adventure; a journey into unknown, that requires the querant to have faith.

The Medi Arcana

The remaining four cards are messengers, representing the four directions on a plane.

The Minor Arcana

The minor arcana are comprised of the forty remaining cards, numbered from one to ten in each suit. Forty is the mystical number of water and of transformation.

· And the flood was forty days upon the earth. [9]

· And the children of Israel did eat the manna forty years. [10]

· And Moses entered into the midst of the cloud, and went up into the mount; and Moses was in the mount forty days and forty nights. [11]

So, traveling through the cards of the minor arcana is akin to walking the path of self-transformation.

Taken altogether, the 78 cards (twenty-two major keys, twelve astrological archetypes, four messengers and forty lessons) lead the querant on a journey toward their own enlightenment and place their feet upon the path that leads to a deeper understanding of the Universe.

[1] http://roswell.fortunecity.com/leehigh/340/shadow/shadow5.htm - source: Cynthia Giles' book: The Tarot, History, Mystery and Lore

[2] Gershom Scholem, Kabbalah,

[3] Daniel C. Matt, The Essential Kabbalah,

[4] Joseph Dan, The Ancient Jewish Mysticism,

[5] Aryeh Kaplan, Translation and Commentary of The Bahir: Illumination,

[6] Gershom Scholem, Major trends in Jewish Mysticism,

[7] Peter Schafer, The Hidden and Manifest God, Translated by Aubrey Pomerance

[8] http://www.byzant.com/tarot/history.asp

[9] Genesis 7:17

[10] Exodus 16:35

[11] Exodus 24:18

Using Numerology to Determine Motivation

2008-01-03T09:35:00.000-08:00

In The Science of Numerology, I explored the basics of numerology and defined the basic elements of the core. One of these core elements is termed the Soul’s Urge and is also known as the Inner Urge and Heart’s Desire. Regardless of the label applied, the Soul’s Urge is essentially a pathway to your subconscious desires and ideals. It is representative of your secret ambitions and goals and can illuminate what is wanted most out of life. By understanding the Inner Urge, we can gain understanding of how the inner you strives for recognition.

The Heart’s Desire reflects your emotional view and how you are likely to feel about events and situations in your life. It is also provides insight into how you feel about yourself and others. The essence of the interpretation and expression of your reactions to people and the environment is derived from your Inner Urge number. This urge is influential in determining the person’s perspective, convictions and general approach.

This inner motivation is generally not recognized by others and may also not be recognized by the subject either. There are some cases where the inner urge is so strong as to be visible to most people. Conversely, there are cases where this inner motivation has been sublimated and is not noticeable even by the subject until this analysis reveals it.

The Soul’s Urge is derived from assigning values to the vowels in your birth name and adding these values together. Vowels are assigned the following values:

A = 1 E = 5 I = 9 O = 6 U = 3 Y = 7

The first five (A, E, I, O and U) are always considered vowels. The letter Y is only considered a vowel when it is the only vowel in a syllable. For example, Y is a vowel in the names: Mary and Lynnette. It is not considered to be a vowel in the name Hayden.

Try adding the values of the vowels in your name and comparing your Soul’s Urge number to the chart below. The way to do this is given in the example below using the name:

John Fitzgerald Kennedy

The O = 6, I = 9, E = 5, A = 1, E = 5, E = 5, Y = 7. 6+9+5+1+5+5+7 =38 3+8=11

1 Desire to lead and to be independent. Has little patience and compromise is difficult, Tends to be impulsive in love and in parting. Aggressive and alert to new and novel ideas.

2 Has a great desire to be liked. Tends to be a hero-worshipper with a desire to belong. Has difficulty saying no and may not be a good judge of character, which can lead to be taken advantage of.

3 Has a great desire to be popular. Social standing and status is very important. Fun person. May have a tendency to be negligent and indiscreet in love affairs and flit from one relationship to another. Has a desire to be in "in the know" always.

4 Subconscious desire is for security and stability. Economical and often concerned with future finances. Likes to avoid being in debt. Requires order in work as well as domestic life. Prone to be competitive and to always finish every task started.

5 Other than a strong desire for adventure and excitement, does not really know what is wanted; enthusiasms are not long lived. Restless nature. Apt to be irresponsible.

6 A happy home and family is most important. There is a tendency to magnify petty problems and to be a worrier. Should try to give help and advice only when asked for.

7 Prefers quiet and solitude. There is a desire to love and belong to someone, but finds it difficult to express this love. When love comes, is loyal and monogamous. Has a great depth in nature for productive mental enterprise.

8 Greatest desire to be wealthy with a prominent position. Status symbols are important as is having the best of everything. Has very sophisticated tastes. Very charitable, though friends are generally of high status. Can be snobbish.

9 Desire to give either in the way of love and affection or knowledge and experience. Has artistic talents of considerable magnitude. Can be moody and changeable with a colorful and dramatic flair. Has a love of travel and meeting different types of people.

11 Would like to develop and share views on spiritual matters, beauty, perfection and idealism. Would like to give in the abstract sense of the word.

22 Would like to make a considerable contribution to the world.

The Master Builder: Twenty-Two

2008-01-03T09:23:00.000-08:00

In numerology, when we work through the algorithms to determine the elements, we reduce all numbers to a single digit with two exceptions; karmic numbers and master numbers. Master numbers are double digit numbers; such as 11, 22 and 33. Each of these numbers is considered to be very powerful as each contains the double vibrations of each number plus the vibration at the root.

So, for example, eleven contains a double “one” vibration as well as the vibration for the number two. The number twenty-two contains the qualities of the double two and the essence of the number four. Each progressive master number is thought to be more powerful and have more potential than the proceeding one, because each is thought to contain the potential of the proceeding number. Thus, twenty-two is thought to contain the abilities of the number eleven with a much higher potential to express and actualize those abilities.

This image of the twenty-two, the ability to take the capability of the eleven and apply it in a substantive way, is why Numerologists term the twenty-two the Master Builder.

The master builder, conceptually, is someone who lays the foundation for great new things. When the image of the master builder is conjured, think of someone great, like Buddha, who achieved enlightenment and charted a path for others to follow. The vowels of Buddha equal four (order and service), the consonants equal eighteen (nine – humanitarianism) and the total equals twenty-two.

Florence Nightingale paved the way for nursing to be considered a profession; before she brought methods and discipline to the training, nursing was considered to be a menial task and nurses were thought to be servants. The vowels of Florence add up to seven and in Nightingale to six. The total of the vowels add up to thirteen (four – order and service). The consonants in Florence add up to eight and in Nightingale to one. The total of the consonants add up to nine (humanitarianism). The total, nine plus thirteen, adds up to twenty-two.

Joan of Arc, who was born Jeanne d’Arc, and who laid the foundation for France’s liberation from England, also functioned as a twenty-two. The vowels in Jeanne add up to eleven (the number of a visionary) and the consonants add to eleven as well. The total, twenty-two, means that she was able to take her vision and make it into a reality.

Events, in addition to event-makers, are linked to the number twenty-two. Sometimes the twenty-two acts in a positive way. For example, in 1903, the Universal Year twenty-two, Wilbur and Orville Wright made their historical first flight at Kitty Hawk.

Sometimes it is not so positive. In 1939, again the Universal Year twenty-two, Germany invaded Poland, marking the start of World War II.

It was on the twenty-second of November (the eleventh month), that the following events occurred in history. In 1842, Mount St Helens in Washington erupted. In 1943 FDR, Churchill and Chiang Kai-shek meet to discuss ways to defeat Japan and end World War II. In 1989, there was the remarkable conjunction of Venus, Mars, Uranus, Neptune, Saturn and the Moon. In 1963, John F. Kennedy was shot dead in Dallas, Texas allegedly by Lee Harvey Oswald. Incidentally, the letters in Oswald add up to twenty-two as well.

The number twenty-two also has arcane linkages that hint at the great depth and power inherent within. For example, in the Kabalistic Tree of Life there are twenty-two individual paths that may be followed to be brought near to the completeness of Keter. Each path joins two of the Sephirot and is infused with meaning and direction for moving toward that unity of awareness and purpose hinted at in Keter.

The path of Chet, for example, links Tiferet (the heart) with Chesed (loving kindness). The path of Chet is traversed through love by linking your life to another’s. The path of Ayin links Tiferet (the heart) with Binah (understanding). The path of Ayin is traversed by studying and trying to understand other points of view. The path of Ayin holds the certainty that the greatest truths are not expressed in single belief.

In the system of Tarot, there are twenty-two cards in the major arcana. The word arcana, the plural of Arcanum, means profound secret mysteries. The sequence of the cards in the major arcana represents a spiritual journey of enlightenment that begins with the initiate (termed the Fool in most decks) and culminates with a deep, universal understanding (in the World). In following this progression, we gain insight into the learning that we must achieve to progress along the path of enlightenment.

Further, the Initiate is represented as both key zero and twenty-two. This is because there are a multitude of paths that we are set upon throughout our lifetime. Life is cyclical, and the major arcana, with the Initiate placed at both the beginning and the end, represents a discrete cycle. When the Initiate is placed at the beginning as key 0, he symbolizes the raw potential of one who is eager, while not yet experienced or knowledgeable. When the Initiate is placed at the end as key 22, he signifies one who now has the experience, and thus the skills and knowledge.

The strength of the number twenty-two is in evidence in the esoteric roots of the Kabbalah, Tarot and Numerology. It is clearly linked to the destiny of events and event makers. Its intensity is found in the vibration of the double “two,” which enhances the capabilities found in the number eleven with a pragmatic ability to make it all happen. It is the power to develop; to lay the foundation for something new and exciting. It is the Master Builder.

The Science of Numerology

2008-01-03T09:08:00.000-08:00

Numerology is an empirical science that has its roots in the Kabbalah, the ancient tome of mysticism dating back to over 4,000 years ago. It is a method or means for discerning traits and characteristics, paths and opportunities, reactions and responses and likely successes and pitfalls.

Numerological analysis methods utilize the birth name and birth date as the starting point from which numerous analysis elements are derived. Each element is weighted and compared against the others to construct a profile of the subject. This comparison is used to determine the strength of the characteristics. Outliers are also examined to determine the extent to which expression, growth and development is impacted.

Analysis is performed by using the birth name and date to determine a subject’s core traits and to review extrinsic modifiers that react to and influence the core.

The core numbers are the basic elements that illustrate the attributes, abilities, traits, attitudes and responses that are a person’s very essence. These elements are the life path, the expression, the soul’s urge and the birthday. Surrounding the core is another basic element that is termed the personality number.

The life path is determined using the date of birth. It represents both what needs to be accomplished in this life as well as the innate characteristics that the subject possesses to help drive achievement along this path. Lastly, this is the number of opportunity and destiny.

The expression number is derived from all of the letters in the birth name. It describes the subject’s innate abilities and talents. This number is sometimes viewed as “the real person.”

The soul's urge (sometimes called the inner urge or heart's desire) is determined by the vowels in the birth name. It describes what is wanted in life; subconscious desires and ideals. Knowing these desires illuminates the subject’s point of view, principles and general approach.

The birthday is literally the day on which the subject was born. It is a subset of the life path and thus represents, to a smaller degree, the innate characteristics that the subject possesses to assist them along the path of life.

The personality number is derived from the consonants found in the birth name. It is the outer self; the self that others see and believe to be the real person. In other words, it represents the view of others. This number is not necessarily who the subject is. It is merely the reflection of the perceptions of other people.

Once an analysis of the core is complete, tremendous insight into the subject is offered. Their strengths, weaknesses, attitudes and abilities are revealed. This information may be used to help guide the subject and answer some fundamental questions with a high degree of accuracy.

Try this little experiment. Write your date of birth in the following format: mm/dd/yyyy. If you were born on January 15, 1942, you would write: 1/15/1942. Add up all of the digits. Again, if you were born on 1/15/42, you would add: 1+1+5+1+9+4+2 = 23. You would keep adding until you reached on of the numbers below. In the above example, we would add 2+3 = 5.

Compare your answer to the chart below to see what this reveals about you. Remember this is only a portion of the information that is available from numerological analysis.

1 Much inner strength and leadership capability. Strong personal needs and desires. Must learn to be independent first, then to create. Life will be filled with many new beginnings.

2 Cooperative and sensitive to others’ feelings. Friendly. Capable of doing detail work. Not very materialistic. Must learn discipline and how to collaborate with others.

3 Very social and a good conversationalist. Very youthful (almost childlike) in approach. Must learn to express talents without scattering energies and flitting from one thing to the next.

4 Practical, organized and very hard-working. Serious, honest and sincere with strong likes and dislikes and strong feelings of what is right and wrong. Must learn to live with the limits that are imposed by life. Stability and security should be the goals.

5 Enthusiastic, versatile and clever; a quick thinker. Very fun to be around. Loves change and travel. Desires exciting adventures and may at times be restless and impatient. Must learn from experience. Should be cautious not to over-indulge.

6 Very responsible. Always there to pick up the burden. Capable of acting as the mediator. Artistic and emotional. Family is very important. Education is a must. Must learn to distinguish between helping and interfering.

7 Operates on a different wave length with unique solutions and approaches. Introspective. Intuitive. Self-reliant. Must learn patience - things come if you just wait. Must learn not to judge from appearances.

8 Ambitious and self-confident. Executive ability. Good at judging character. Aware of others in relation to self and goals. Disciplined. Honorable. Association with people of wealth and status is extremely important. Must learn the value of money and must work to control the desire for power and greed.

9 Idealistic; sometimes tempered with a more practical side. Romantic. Loves with depth and passion. Creative ability; imaginative. Sympathetic tolerant and broad-minded. Must learn compassion and to give without expecting anything in return.

11 Extremely capable at whatever work is chosen, though there is a tendency to be a dreamer and to be impractical. Inspirational in a very quiet way. Idealistic. Often disappointed at the imperfections in the world. Has added perceptions and awareness. Must learn to trust and develop intuition and these.

22 Charismatic. Strong leadership capability. Extremely capable of whatever work is chosen. Unorthodox. Possesses added perceptions and awareness with different capabilities of understanding plus the ability of attaining anything in the way of material accomplishment. Must learn how to focus these abilities.

As you can see, Numerology is fascinating subject. Its roots are ancient and its empirical methods provide accurate results. If you are interested in more information, look for future posts here on my blog.