On Names

What’s in a Name?  Everything!

Names carry tremendous energy, which translates to the vibration we carry in life every day.  Today’s teenagers and young adults change their names just as the “flower-generation” did years ago.  We ache to identify with our names, to be known by the “right” name, seeking the perfect ones for our children and ourselves.

So why the obsession?  Because it matters!

The Internet has a multitude of definitions, as do books on mythology, archetypes, history and baby names.  But a deeper understanding comes in more esoteric references like numerology and astrological references.

Although no source is meant to box an individual into a definition of whom s/he is, ancient techniques are designed to give us an understanding of the depth of the power of any given name.  The name, through numbers and association defines some basic personality traits, strengths and weaknesses we carry throughout our lives.  For those who have changed a name through marriage or any other reason, these characteristics change subtly, requiring adjustment in not only how we perceive ourselves, but also how we are seen by the world.

Basic numerology provides us with the following chart by which we can determine the numeric value of the name.  Simply match each letter of the name on your birth certificate (to start) with the numbers below.  Then add the numbers together.  If you end up with a double-digit number or more, add the total until you get a number ranging from 1 to 9.

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

Each number has a basic set of associated characteristics as detailed following:

1               Independent, Self Motivated, Determined, Aggressive, Critical, Procrastination, Need for Perfection, (Kabbalistic Association:  Imaginative, Embracing Change, Daydreaming, Lack of Sympathy)

2               Cooperation, Sensitive, Sincere, Spiritual, Clumsy, Selfish, Shy, Challenge with sense of Well-Being and Details, (Kabbalistic Association:  Initiative, Idealistic, Procrastination, Envy)

3               Persuasive, Abundant, Balanced, Giving, Strong Imagination, Optimistic, Scattered, Moody, Lack of Direction, Commitment Issues, (Kabbalistic Association:  Patience, Silence, Faithfulness, Doubt, Apathy, Blame)

4               Leader, Patient, Practical, Scientific, Organized, Stubborn, Argumentative, Melodramatic, Slow to Act, Forgiveness Issues, (Kabbalistic Association:  Idealism, Truth, Patience, Hypocrisy, Dogmatism, Self-Righteousness)

5               Caring, Respectful, Analytical, Visionary, Quick Mind, Versatile, Restless, Dissatisfied, Suppressive, Issues around Will Power, (Kabbalistic Association:  Confidence, Initiative, Anger, Fear, Cruelty)

6               Understanding, Compassionate, Artistic, Nurturing, Service Oriented, Self-Righteous, Obstinate, Deceptive, Dominating, Issues around Hope, (Kabbalistic Association:  Reverence, Devotion, False Pride, Insecurity, Blaming)

7               Seeker of Knowledge, Scientific, Studious, Charming, Seeing Ahead, Inflexible, Superficial, Callous, Suspicious, Sarcastic, Issues around Control, (Kabbalistic Association: Optimistic, Expressive, Emotional, Possessive)

8               Athletic, Supportive, Informative, Decisive, Leader, Apathetic, Impatient, Dominating, Workaholic, Overly Ambitious, Issues around Humanitarianism, (Kabbalistic Association:  Patient, Practical, Over-Critical, Separatist)

9               Intuitive, Peacemaker, Friendly, Giving, Creative, Possessive, Moody, Egotist, Ambivalence, Issues around Patience and Planning, (Kabbalistic Association:  Independent, Spontaneous, Vain, Impulsive)

The number associated with your full birth name is considered your “Destiny” number.  The numerological characteristics are not intended to box an individual into a certain framework.  Instead, they help to define more deeply why we think or act the way we do and the qualities by which we may best reach our full potential.  Once we better understand our nature, we can CHANGE our thoughts and actions to enrich our lives!

Our street addresses, birthdates, birth times and other names and dates have power through numbers as well.  The characteristics above are only a tiny taste of the power of names . . .

It is also important to investigate the archetypal and mythological or historical origins of a name.  Through time, names gain the strengths and the weaknesses inspired by the people who claim them.  These characteristics become a part of the fabric of the name itself.

Paired with the information above, this information will assist you in gaining a much better understanding of the nature of your name and your nature!!