By Siobhan Elizabeth Ball
Elm Staff Writer
Do you ever find yourself looking at your phone and seeing that the time is 11:11? Perhaps you notice that your morning coffee cost $3.33, or that a video you are watching is time stamped as 5:55.
Dubbed “angel numbers,” this phenomenon blew up on social media this past year, popularized by a number of TikTok communities, including WitchTok, AstrologyTok, and ManifestationTok, who are dedicated to tracking angel numbers. The hashtag #angelnumbers has over one billion views on TikTok, with videos garnering hundreds of thousands of likes.
According to Elle, as the COVID-19 pandemic persists, younger generations are increasingly turning to non-traditional spiritual practices, including angel numbers, to deal with life’s uncertainties.
The term angel numbers was first introduced in the early 2000s by American author Doreen Virtue, who helped to popularize the concept, writing several books including “Angel Numbers 101,” according to Reader’s Digest.
Angel numbers are part of numerology – the study of numbers – which is an “ancient esoteric science that deals with numbers and letters and the energy, intention and vibration behind them,” according to professional numerologist Novalee Wilder.
For numbers to be considered angel numbers, they must appear in a sequence of three or four of the same number. It is believed that these numbers are messages containing wisdom and directionality, offering insights from the spiritual universe.
This concept may seem silly to some, but the significance and power of repeating numbers has been around for hundreds of years. According to UniGuide, Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher, believed that “all numbers carry sacred codes” that symbolized certain phenomena.
To better understand this phenomenon, here is The Elm’s Cheat Sheet Guide to Angel Numbers.
New Beginnings – 000
Zero is often associated with new opportunities. It signifies a new start and the beginning of a brand new cycle. For many of us here at Washington College, this represents graduation — a time for new beginnings and exciting opportunities.
Manifestation – 111
111 or 1111 represent powerful manifestation. If you are lucky enough to discover these numbers, relish in the opportunity to make a wish and set intentions for yourself. These numbers are said to be a greenlight from the universe that you are on the right path. Remember to make a wish next time you see 11:11 on your phone.
Trust – 222
Two is considered a number of dualities, suggesting trust, alignment, and balance. If you experience a sequence of twos, it often means that someone is helping you get where you need to be, whether that is in the physical realm or the spiritual one.
Creativity – 333
The number three represents creativity. Noticing this sequence in your everyday life can signify opportunities to embrace your unique talents and skills in any given situation.
Stability – 444
444 or 4444 symbolizes stability highlighting a focus on grounding and cultivating practices that will be there for the long haul.
Change – 555
Sightings of number five sequences often suggest that major changes are on the horizon. It is usually a sign from the universe that good things are about to happen.
Compassion – 666
Because of its religious connotations, 666 has a bad reputation amongst many people who associate this sequence with the devil. However, in terms of angel numbers, six is considered to be a gentle reminder to always treat yourself with understanding and kindness. Things may not always go the way that you had planned, but you can choose how to interpret unexpected situations by remembering that everything happens for a reason.
Good Fortune – 777
The number seven is considered lucky, traditionally meaning good financial fortune. This sequence focuses on the individual rather than relationships. It is about taking time to focus on yourself. Sometimes we need a reminder that it is good to be selfish and put yourself first. Seven sequences can often be a sign to slow down, to be alone with your own thoughts and figure out what is important.
Intuition – 888
Sequences of eight are typically thought to be divine in terms of numerology because it reflects connections with the spiritual universe.
End of a Journey – 999
Last but not least in angel numbers is the number nine, which is representative of a chapter coming to an end. It is often seen as a sign that an important phase is ending and that you will soon begin a new journey. This can be a great time to step outside of your comfort zone, expand your horizons, and explore new opportunities.
Keep an eye out for angel numbers in the future because it could be the universe sending you an important and much needed message. If you would like to learn more, check out Novalee Wilder’s “The Numerology Podcast” available on all major streaming platforms.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Photo caption: Have you ever made a wish when the clock hits 11:11? This superstition is rooted in numerology, which angel numbers bases its structure on.