Numerology, or the method of assigning a numerical equivalent to each letter of the alphabet, is based on the ideas of Greek mathematician Pythagoras, who said, "All things can be expressed in numerical terms, because all things are ultimately reduced to numbers." Numbers, to him, were, "the basis of all art, science and music, and that by contemplating numbers, you can discover the spiritual key leading to the divine."

"The basic premise of numerology is that everything in the universe is in motion, and has its own rate of vibration," writes Phyllis Vega (www.geocities.com/phyllisvega), a professional astrologer, Tarot reader, and numerologist in Miami, FL[JM1]. For the past 31 years, she has been a New Age counselor, teacher, researcher, and writer. "Words are made up of letters, and every letter has a numeric equivalent. The sum total of the numerical equivalents of the letters in a word reveals its vibratory rate. The numbers in a name are like the musical notes in a song. Although each number carries its own message, the total of them all, when reduced to a single digit, is comparable to the dominant cord in the song," she explains. In her book, "Numerology for Baby Names: Use the Ancient Art of Numerology to Give Your Baby a Head Start in Life," Vega reveals fascinating information about who we are--and where we're headed based on the principles of numberology. With numerology, parents can add a touch of magic to their search for the perfect, most meaningful name.

To calculate the numerical value of any word or name, place the number corresponding to each letter under that letter and then add all the numbers together. Numbers with double digits are then added together to become single digits.

Pythagorean Conversion Table
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z

For example:
D E B R A is 4+5+2+9+1=21
2+1=3. Debra's numerical value is 3.

Each numerical value corresponds with particular traits and characteristics that numerologists have devised. So, if your child is a number 3, for example, his or her traits/characteristics might include: adaptable, ambitious, cheerful, communicative, creative, enthusiastic, extravagant, flirtatious, generous, independent, kind, lucky, optimistic, popular, proud, superficial, talented, unpredictable, vain, versatile, self-expressive, and hardworking.

Today's top baby names that also happen to be a "3" include Ethan, Addison, Owen, Tristan Madison and Ella.

So let's start at the beginning. If your child is a number one, some of his/her traits might include: aggressive, ambitious, assertive, courageous, creative, daring, determined, egocentric, generous, impatient, impulsive, independent, individualistic, innovative, a leader, original, selfish, self-reliant, competitive, independent thinker, self-centered and bossy, to name a few. The name Payton is an example of a number one.

Number two names, such as Noah or Nina could be described as balanced, compassionate, considerate, cooperative, deceptive, diplomatic, efficient, gracious, kind, moody, patient, receptive, reliable, restless, sensitive, shy, sympathetic, tactful, tolerant and understanding.

(For threes, see above)

Number four, including names like Lily, Jacob and David may be found to be consistent, determined, frugal, industrious, loyal, organized, patient, practical, proud, punctual, reliable, serious, spiteful, stable, structured, stubborn, studious, thorough and a visionary. They're typically builders and organizers.

The names Jayden, Olivia, Benjamin, Hunter and Abigail are number fives. These are often freedom-lovers who are considered adaptable, alert, charming, clever, conceited, curious, flamboyant, flexible, hedonistic, intellectual, irritable, nervous, original, resilient, resourceful, restless, sensual, uncertain, versatile and wasteful, at times.

Sixes may be affectionate, artistic, complacent, concerned, considerate, consistent, dependable, domestic, egocentric, honest, jealous, kind, loyal, obstinate, refined, sensitive, sociable, sympathetic, thoughtful and vain. The names: Aiden, Ava, Landon, and Riley fit this bill.

Alexis, Isabella and Grace are all sevens, who are likely to be confused, creative, cunning, deceitful, discretionary, imaginative, impractical, independent, intellectual, introspective, intuitive, moody, mystic, have psychic ability, refined, secretive, like solitude, spiritual, superficial and are wise.

Eights might be consistent, destructive, determined, greedy, industrious, leaders, loyal, materialistic, patient, persevering, philanthropists, powerful, practical, reliable, ruthless, tenacious, tough, unscrupulous and wealthy. Pick names like: Eric or Karen.

And finally, the nines. The names: Danielle, Aubrey, Nicholas, Oliver and Emma can be bold, conceited, courageous, creative, curious, deceptive, energetic, fanatics, generous, global-conscious, hasty, idealists, ill-tempered, impulsive, independent, intelligent, philanthropists, resourceful, spiritual and successful.

So what's in a name? In the world of numerology - everything.