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Is there a number that seems to seek you out? Recurring digits can show up in everyday life in various ways: license plates, receipts, clocks, books, film, or art, to start. Referred to as angel numbers, these are thought by some to show up not by mere coincidence, but as vehicles for message and meaning.
“From a numerological perspective, when we start seeing angel numbers, things start to get really fun!” says numerologist Felica Bender, aka The Practical Numerologist. “We can begin to trust the flow, understand the value of timing, and also get clearer about our personal and spiritual path in life.”
And in keeping with our modern want of all things digital, angel numbers are very much everywhere—from the timestamps on phone notifications to the mentions sprinkled through social media feeds.
What Are Angel Numbers?
Angel numbers can show up as repeated digits (111, 222, 333, 444, etc.), a seemingly random combination of numbers, or one with assigned significance, like a significant date or lucky sequence. According to Bender, numerology is based on the assertion that numbers carry a frequency and a vibration. Common real-world examples include spotting 11:11 on a clock, or hitting the jackpot with a lucky 777.
These can be interpreted as signs from spirit, source, the universe, your team of guardian angels (hence the name), or whatever your beliefs. “They are often like flashes of light that lead you down a path to deeper spiritual experiences and connections,” says Novalee Wilder, numerologist and author of A Little Bit of Angel Numbers. Wilder adds that the first step of this journey is remaining open to it—and the numbers can help with that, too.
In both numerologists’ experience, people seem to encounter angel numbers when they are in need of guidance, connection, or affirmation. Regularly spotting angel numbers signals an openness to the unseen and your own intuition—an invitation to trust that you’re supported.
“It’s a small yet monumental pivot when we truly understand that we don’t have to go it alone; we always have help, support, and guidance,” says Bender. “Whenever I see a repeating number, it also reminds me to lighten up! I always laugh when I see one and say, ‘Thank you! out loud.”
@candy2222292 I be yelling out those numbers in the traffic 🚗 #fy #fyp #angelnumbers credit: @⭐️ ♬ original sound – ❦lana
Angel Numbers Go Modern
Numerology is an ancient concept. The origins of western numerology can be traced back to Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras (around 500 BC) and there’s evidence to suggest similar practices in Egypt, Babylon, and China. Still, the modern age is prime time for numeric guidance. Bender asserts that a technologically-driven society, one literally built on numbers and code, makes ideas like angel numbers a fitting entrypoint to the spiritual realm. “It becomes a bit easier to willingly suspend our disbelief and lean into this knowledge,” she says.
This accessibility is evidenced by a quick scroll through social media. “Angel numbers” currently boasts 159.5M posts on TikTok, with creators breaking down meanings, showing off tattoos, and discussing the interpretation of their latest recurring sequence.
Some are even using the digits to build brands. Entrepreneur Marta Freeman created her cannabis brand, Angel Therapy, around these energetics. The packaging features 444, among other sequences. “I think that there is a lot of magic to “embedding” numbers in things—with everything I do professionally, I believe in infusing energy in that way,” she says. “We had a really cool opportunity to start from scratch and make a brand with spirituality at the center.” Jewelry maker Awe Inspired’s collection of angel number necklaces encourage wearers to carry a chosen numeric message with them, while lifestyle brand Sacred + Divine offer angel number candles and room sprays designed to infuse your space with the assigned vibe.
The transmutation of spiritual concepts into trackable trends and even products invites the uninitiated to honor their own experiences with the unseen—and offers a language that enables them to talk about it. Bender notes that even those typically averse to all things “woo woo” have trouble ignoring the universe when a certain number keeps showing up. “Often, this opens the door for other curiosities and other information that is more metaphysical in nature.”
This curiosity becomes all the more important when we allow it to enhance our self-awareness and intuition.
A Quick Guide to Angel Numbers
Numerology has lots to say about the number of digits that you’re receiving (like 111 or 1111 or 11111) and the interplay of those digits. But starting with a rudimentary understanding of the practice is a good start. “Knowing the defining characteristics of each number (1-9) gives you a great start to deciphering the specific message the number sequence relays,” says Bender.
Once you have a general comprehension of the single digits under your belt, you can pay more mindful attention to the world around you—and be open to the messages it offers.
0
Oneness, potential, openness, flow, intuition, infinity
1
Independence, new beginnings, initiation, action, confidence
2
Patience, love/relationships, harmony, balance, networking, community
3
Communication, artistic expression, creativity, moving past self-doubt, emotional expression
4
Stability, foundation, security, hard work, set-by-step processes, limitations
5
Freedom, changes, sexuality, travel, facing fears, adventure, freedom through self-discipline
6
Home, family, duty, service, responsibility, releasing control, unconditional love
7
Research, planning, going inward, personal and spiritual growth, resting, spiritual growth
8
Money, power and empowerment, control, authority, business, using power wisely
9
Endings, completions, letting go, universal love, compassion, humanitarian service
