Numbers in the Bible: Meaning and Purpose as Part of a Literary Technique

By Dr Willem Abrie

There is nothing mystical about the use of number-symbols in the bible. Its function is simply to act as symbols pointing to something else, similar to the symbolic association with bread, blood, wine and water in the bible.

To communicates its message, the bible uses many literary techniques, apart from ordinary words. Key to it all, is the requirement that the person on the receiving side known what these words or symbols means. The translators of the bible did a great job in making the meaning of the words in the original manuscripts known to us in a translated version of it. However, with symbols it is not so easy and it needs a separate explanation. This book is written to help explaining symbolism associated with numbers in the bible.

The reason why one will use a symbol, is because it is a very powerful literary tool, enabling one to add depth, understanding and emotion. In some cases, it will even be impossible to explain a concept properly without the assistance of a symbol. It also makes it possible to keep text current, regardless the time difference between the generation who has written it and who is reading it.

As far as number symbols are concerned, the bible is loaded with it. In many cases it is used in conjunction with metaphors; parables; the meaning of names and objects; types, etc. Like all symbols, number-symbols are easy to understand when one knows what it symbolizes. As far as numbers are concerned, the key to its meaning is the Hebrew word indicating a number. The words for numbers had a meaning in ancient Hebrew times, that was apart from indicating a number.

For every rule there is an exception. The symbolic meanings associated with numbers 1 to 9 are heavily influenced by an ordinary association with it and the specific additions the bible itself has added. Note, the actual words in text and the symbolic meaning of a symbol in it will always compliment one another. It will never clash. It serves as a check on the correctness of the symbolic meaning one has attached to a symbol in the text.

God knows we are not all the same. For some is sufficient to read the bible without wanting to analyse it too much. Number-symbolism does not affect those of us, because it is relatively easy to follow. On the other hand, some of us wants something more challenging. Number-symbolism has something for them too, because in many places the numbers interact with other numbers and symbols, making it necessary to analyse it to see how it interacts with one another. This more involved meaning is not needed to follow the main message of the bible, but does help us to go into it in more depth.

In a nut-shell, this book explains the symbolic meaning of numbers and how it helps to highlight and explain revelations in the bible. It covers all the numbers which appears in both the Old and New Testament, together with a few other ones that stands out in a biblical context.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dr Willem Abrie
• Release date: Feb 21, 2015
• ISBN: 9781311641748

Dr Willem Abrie

I worked as a professor in the School of Accounting at the University of South Africa and before that I was a partner in a firm of Chartered Accountants. I wanted to do something totally different, applying my research and practical experience in other areas. I do not claim to have any special training with regards to the topics I have written about, apart from studying it extensively on my own. For the book on micro-organisms I have relied on my imagination.

Book preview

Numbers in the Bible

Meaning and Purpose as Part of a Literary Technique

Dr Willem Abrie

Shelter Publishing Australia (SPA)

Published at Smash Words

2020

Shelter Publishing Australia and Smash Words Copyright Note

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What this book is about

There is nothing mystical about the use of number-symbols in the bible. Its function is simply to act as symbols pointing to something else, similar to the symbolic association with bread, blood, wine and water in the bible.

To communicates its message, the bible uses many literary techniques, apart from ordinary words. Key to it all, is the requirement that the person on the receiving side knowns what these words, symbols, et cetera means. The translators of the bible did a great job in making the meaning of the words in the original manuscripts known to us in a translated version of it. However, with symbols it is not so easy and it needs a separate explanation. This book is written to help explaining symbolism associated with numbers in the bible.

The reason why one will use a symbol, is because it is a very powerful literary tool, enabling one to add depth, understanding and emotion. In some cases, it will even be impossible to explain a concept properly without the assistance of a symbol. It also makes it possible to keep text current, regardless the time difference between the generation who has written it and who is reading it.

As far as number symbols are concerned, the bible is loaded with it. In many cases it is used in conjunction with metaphors; parables; the meaning of names and objects; types, etc. Like all symbols, number-symbols are easy to understand when one knows what it symbolizes. As far as numbers are concerned, the key to its meaning is the Hebrew word indicating a number. The words for numbers had a meaning in ancient Hebrew times, that was apart from indicating a number. These meanings also define the symbolic meanings of it. It is explained in detail in Part Daleth (The Hebrew Number Table).

For every rule there is an exception. The symbolic meanings associated with numbers 1 to 9 are also heavily influenced by an ordinary association with it and the specific additions the bible itself has added. Note, the actual words in text and the symbolic meaning of a symbol in it will always compliment one another. It will never clash. It serves as a check on the correctness of the symbolic meaning one has attached to a symbol in the text.

God knows we are not all the same. For some it is sufficient to read the bible without wanting to analyse it too much. Number-symbolism does not affect those of us, because it is relatively easy to follow. On the other hand, some of us wants something more challenging. Number-symbolism has something for them too, because in many places the numbers interact with other numbers and symbols, making it necessary to analyse it to see how it interacts with one another. This more involved meaning is not needed to follow the main message of the bible, but does help us to go into it in more depth.

In a nut-shell, this book explains the symbolic meaning of numbers and how it helps to highlight and explain revelations in the bible. It covers all the numbers which appears in both the Old and New Testament, together with a few other ones that stands out in a biblical context.

Table of Contents

Note: Normally a guide will have an orientation (introduction) at the start of it. Due to the uniqueness of the subject matter I have chosen to make the orientation the last part in this book and a summary of the meaning of numbers the first part.

Part Aleph - Synopsis

Summary of the Purpose and Meaning of Individual Numbers in the Bible

Part Beth - Detailed Explanations (Numbers 1 to 999)

Division (B)One – Numbers 1 to 9

Introduction – Numbers 1 to 9

Number-Symbol 1 – Revealing God

Number-Symbol 2 – Separated from God without faith

Number-Symbol 3 – God provides, also a messiah

Number-Symbol 4 – An earthly home for humans

Number-Symbol 5 – God’s grace

Number-Symbol 6 – Humans and their labour

Number-Symbol 7 – God has fully completed His work

Number-Symbol 8 – Resurrection through Jesus Christ

Number-Symbol 9 – God’s judgement

Combing Numbers 1 to 9 - A confession of faith

Division (B)Two – Numbers 10 to 99

Introduction – Numbers 10 to 99

Number-Symbol 10 - A new beginning after a bad time

Number-Symbol 11 – Imperfection, a closed hand applied in strength

Number-Symbol 12 - It is God who is in control

Number-Symbol 14 - Deliverance

Number-Symbol 15- Rest (eternal rest)

Number-Symbol 18 - Oppression or bondage

Number-Symbol 20 - Redemption

Number-Symbol 24 - Priesthood

Number-Symbol 30 - Rulership (God is in control)

Number-Symbol 38 - Freed from being ruled by sin

Number-Symbol 40 – Purified from sin after suffering because of it

Number-Symbol 42 – Faith a prerequisite for purification

Number-Symbol 50 – Abundant life through grace

Number-Symbol 60 - Humans can lean on God for support

Number-Symbol 70 - God reveals He is the source of life

Number-Symbol 75 - God reveals His living waters is a gift

Number-Symbol 80 – Announcing salvation through grace

Number-Symbol 99 - God gathers and save His people from judgement

Final word on numbers 10 to 99

Division (B)Three – Numbers 100 to 999

Introduction: numbers 100 to 999

Number-Symbol 100 – Forgiveness of sin

Number-Symbol 120 – Redemption possible because of forgiveness of sin

Number-Symbol 200 – Insufficiency

Number-Symbol 400 - God sealed His covenant

Number-Symbol 500 – Grace, covenant and forgiveness of sin

Last word on numbers in the number tables

Part Gimel - Imagery and Odd Numbers

Division (G)One – Imagery numbers

Introduction: Numbers 1 000 and more

Number-Symbol 1 000 – Impossible to measure (eternity)

Number-Symbol 2 000 - Eternal separation

Number-Symbol 3 000 – It is God who provides eternal life

Number-Symbol 4 000 - Door for world to eternal life

Number-Symbol 5 000– Grace makes eternal life possible

Number-Symbol 7 000 – God has completed everything needed for eternal life

Number-Symbol 10 000 – A new start, leading to eternal life

Number-Symbol 20 000 – Completeness of God’s free redemption

Last word on numbers appearing in both Testaments

Division (G)Two – Odd numbers

Numbers, attracting special attention

Number-Symbol 153 – Points to the sons of God

Number-Symbol 318 – God is help

Number-Symbol 666 - The number of the beast

Number-Symbol 969 – Faith will save humans from judgement

Number-Symbol 144 000 - God’s people

Leaving the discussion on individual numbers

Part Daleth – The Hebrew Number Table

d1 – Introduction – Hebrew Number Table

d2 - The Hebrew-Number Table

d3 - Recording numbers with the assistance of the Table

d4 - The ancient Greek number literary culture

d5 - Reconciling the old and the new

Part He – Orientation and Protocols

h1 – Why is number symbolism important?

h2 – Ancient cultures and numbers

h3 – The number-literary technique

h4 – Other literary techniques

h5 - What the number literary technique is not

h6 – Sources enabling us to determining the meaning of a number

h7 – Miscellaneous matters

h8 – Protocols

h9 - Finally

Part Aleph – Synopsis

Summary of the Purpose and Meaning of Individual Numbers in the Bible

(A detailed discussion of each number appears after this part)

Numbers 1 to 999

Division (B)One – Numbers 1 to 9

Number 1 reveals (is associated with) the characteristics of God

For purposes of the number-literary technique, number 1 embraces the words first, source and beginning. In the bible it is primarily used to communicate the characteristics of God. In more detail, number 1 points to the importance of God, that He is the only source and provider of what humans need to live, physically and spiritually. He is united; strong; solid; powerful; certain; reliable; trustworthy; unique; harmonious; righteous; truthful; dependable; and much more. He truly loves His people and because of His patience and grace, He provides us with the light of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. He has saved us, through Jesus Christ, from judgement in the end of times, making it possible to inherit eternal life with Him. God is not only like number 1, He is also 1 (3 in 1).

Number 2 symbolizes separation from God without faith

Number 2 points to the separation that exists between God and humans because of sin. It also includes the message that Jesus Christ has bridged this division, making it possible for us to believe in God and thus have the Holy Spirit in our hearts. It therefore also points to faith or the lack thereof.

Number 3 symbolizes that God has provided everything humans need

Number 3 conveys the message that God has provided us humans with every physical and spiritual requirement we need to support live. Specifically, it points to the fact that God has provided a saviour, Christ Jesus. Note, it is only possible to benefit from what God (whose characteristics are associated with number 1) has provided if we believe in Him (number 2).

Number 4 points to an earthly home for humans

Number 4 symbolically points to the earth. It conveys the message that God has given it to humans as their home. He also wants them to remember that it was He who has completed (provided) the earth as their home and that He will eventually replace it with a heavenly home where there will be rest for our souls.

Number 5 symbolically points to God’s grace

Humans can’t earn redemption. In contrast God’s people get it as a free gift through grace, allowing the Holy Spirit to live in our hearts. However, God’s grace is only available to those who believe in Him.

Number 6 points to humans and human labour

Number 6 is associated with a reminder that humans are the crown of God’s creation, created in His image. It is also associated with human labour. In the New Testament number 6 also points to the meaninglessness of human opposition to God’s plans.

Number 7 symbolizes the result of God’s completed work

Number 7 symbolizes the result of God’s completed work. He has perfectly completed everything humans need physically and spiritually to live, including salvation through Jesus Christ. As a result, He gathers His people on earth in churches, where-after they will receive eternal rest with God.

Number 8 symbolises our resurrection through Jesus Christ

Number 8 links the promise of a Messiah and the fulfilling of that promise through Jesus Christ. It is also associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the restoration of His people, putting a fence between an old life and the new resurrected one.

Number 9 symbolically points to judgement

Number 9 points to the end of times and God’s judgement. For God’s people number 9 indicates salvation, while those who do not believe in God will be judged without the benefit of Jesus sacrifice and would obviously be found guilty.

Division (B)Two – Numbers 10 to 99

Number 10 points to a new start with God

Number 10 points to the fact that God makes a reconciliation with Him (fresh start) possible, enabling us to leave the sins of the past behind.

Number 11 symbolically points to imperfection

Number 11 points to imperfection due to a lack of faith. Humans are defective and only God can make us righteous, but only if we believe in Him. He firmly (in strength) closes His hand to a fresh start when His light is not present.

Number 12 points to the fact that God is in control

Number 12 reminds us that God is control. He will look after the people He has set apart in Christian churches (and in the nation of Israel in the Old Testament). In the end they will govern with Him in a resurrected life.

Number 14 is associated with deliverance from sin

Number 14 points to the fact that God has provided a saviour who has delivered us from the shackles of sin.

Number 15 is associated with eternal rest

Number 15 points to rest, not only for our souls and bodies while we are on earth, but also eternal rest for the people who believe in God.

Number 18 is associated with a release from oppression

The message associated with number 18 points to the fact that only God can set us free from oppression caused by sin.

Number 20 is associated with God’s redemption

The bible uses number 20 to confirm symbolically that God has redeemed the people who believe in Him

Number 24 is associated with priesthood

Number 24 is associated with priesthood in general. Specifically, it conveys the message that Jesus Christ, through His sacrifice on the cross, has fulfilled the promise of redemption to which the sacrifices of the priests in the Old Testament has pointed.

Number 30 confirms, God is in control

Number 30 conveys a message that God is in control and is our ruler (king). As ruler, He provides what His people need to live, but also expects compliance with His orders.

Number 38 confirms, God has freed us from sin

Number 38 points to the fact that God has resurrected (freed) us after being ruled by sin.

Number 40 points to purification after suffering

Number 40 conveys the message that through the blood of Christ Jesus, He has purified His people from their sins, but only after extreme hardship and suffering. It releases us from our own suffering, being provided with purified faith (water).

Number 42 symbolizes salvation through purified faith

Number 42 points to salvation for those who have received the purified water (faith), something only made possible because Christ Jesus has bridged the gap between us and God on our behalf.

Number 50 symbolizes life through abundant grace

Number 50 symbolizes the overwhelming abundance of God’s grace, making a new life with Him possible. Where number 5 points to God’s grace, number 50 symbolizes the life this grace makes possible.

Number 60 tells us we can lean on God for support

Number 60 conveys the message that humans who believe in God can lean (rely) on Him for support.

Number 70 reveals that God is the source of life

Number 70 highlights the following characteristics of God: He is visible for all to see; He is the source of life; and He has completed what is needed to resurrect His people through the living waters of faith.

Number 75 reveals that God’s living waters is a gift

Number 75 makes it known to us that the living waters of faith is given to us as a gift. We can’t earn it.

Number 80 announces salvation through grace

Number 80 is associated with the fact that God makes His salvation through grace known and wants us to do it also.

Number 99 symbolizes no judgement for God’s gathered people

Number 99 symbolizes the fact that God elects and gathers His people in terms of His covenant and saves them from judgement on the last day.

Division (B)Three – Numbers 100 to 999

Number 100 symbolises forgiveness of sin

In ancient times, number 100 was considered a really big number. Forgiveness of our sin, as the result of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ our Lord, is therefore something really substantial. It means we will be saved from judgement and inherit eternal life with God.

Number 120 points to redemption because of forgiveness

Number 120 symbolizes redemption, which is made possible because of God’s forgiveness of sin.

Number 200 is associated with human insufficiency

Number 200 points to the insufficiency of human deliberations (head and mind) without God.

Number 400 is a symbol of God’s covenant

Number 400 points to an irrevocable (sealed) covenant between God and His people, in terms of which we will inherit the eternal land (eternal life).

Number 500 points to grace, God’s covenant and forgiveness

Number 500 symbolizes the fact that God’s covenant leads to the forgiveness of sin through His abundant grace. There is a relationship between Number 500 and its hundredth and tenth parts. Number 5 (hundredth part of number 500) reveals that God has saved His people because of His grace; number 50 (tenth part of number 500) stresses that a spiritual life is only possible because of the abundance of God’s grace; while number 500 itself communicates the reason (covenant) for the forgiveness of sin. In other words, an increased level associated with God’s grace.

Imagery and Odd Numbers

Division (G)One – Imagery numbers

Number 1 000 symbolizes incomprehensibility (eternity)

Number 1 000 symbolizes something so big or many, only God can comprehend it, for example eternity.

Number 2 000 symbolizes a separation from eternal life

Number 2 000 symbolizes a permanent separation from God as a result of a lack of faith. The result is that God’s eternal rest is not available.

Number 3 000 points to God as the source of eternal life

Number 3 000 communicates the fact that it is God who provides His people with blessings too big and many to comprehend, including eternal life.

Number 4 000 points to a door (Jesus) to eternal life

Number 4 000 symbolizes an open door to eternal life for the world, that door being faith - believing in Jesus Christ and His salvation.

Number 5 000 points to eternal life through grace

Number 5 000 communicates a message that the grace of God knows no boundary and therefore makes eternal life possible.

Number 7 000 links God’s completed work with eternal life

Number 7 000 points to the absolute permanence of God’s completed work. It therefore symbolizes the impossibility of a divorce between God and the people He has saved and set apart.

Number 10 000 symbolizes a new start to eternal life.

Number 10 000 symbolizes a new start for the followers of Jesus, leading to eternal rest with God.

Number 20 000 symbolizes the completeness of God’s free redemption

Number 20 000 confirms the total completeness (number 1 000) of God’s redemption (number 20), nothing else is needed to receive eternal life.

Division (G)Two – Odd numbers

Number 153 points to the sons of God

Number 153 means sons of God, pointing to people who belong to God. We as disciples, have a duty to feed the true gospel to the people of God (sons of God), thereby enabling them to be gathered together.

Number 318 means God is help

Number 318 tells us that one can rely on God’s help on the road to eternal life, as His covenant with Abram and His intervention in Saul’s life testify.

Number 666 points to the beast

The number of the beast communicates the following: the beast and his followers do not share God’s sealed covenant as their foundation; therefore, their support base is insufficient; they can’t lean on God for support; and the pretence of worldly humans to be God, is meaningless.

Number 969 - Faith will save humans from judgement

Number 969 draw attention to it because of the high age of Methuselah and being a palindrome. The message associated with it therefore also justify special attention, namely that humans can only be saved from judgement because of their faith in the one true God.

Number 144 000 - God’s people

Number 144 000 points to the people who belong to God, those who have our Godly "Father's name inscribed on their foreheads" and who is redeemed by Jesus.

Part Beth - Detailed Explanations (Numbers 1 to 999)

Division (B)One – Numbers 1 to 9

Introduction – numbers 1 to 9

The first section of the Hebrew Number Table covers numbers 1 to 9. It is also the foundation on which the rest of their number system was built.

Similarly, our modern number system is also based on numbers 1 to 9 as its basis. To explain: we presently use numbers 1 to 9 to record the first nine numbers in a so-called first column from the right. For anything bigger we use further columns to the left. Number 90 is written as 9 in the second column from the right with a xero (0) in the first column to point to fact that the first column has nothing in it. It means we can use numbers 1 to 9 (foundation) over and over again in further spaces to the left, allowing us to record any number.

The revelations in the bible that are associated with numbers 1 to 9 forms the foundation of the gospel too. Larger numbers just build on it, just like the recording of normal numbers build on the first 9.

Just to make matters interesting, note that the first 9 numbers (foundational) is in turn dependant on number 1, because number 1 supports all numbers that follows. Likewise, God (associated with the characteristics of God) is the ultimate foundation on which everything is based.

Genesis 1 describes how God has prepared (created) the world for humans as their home. It also defines the biblical revelations associated with numbers 1 to 6. One can only admire the way in which it has been done. God did not only explain the physical steps