What is gematria used for

gematria is an ancient form of numerological interpretation that is used to decipher the occult meanings of words and phrases. It can be seen as an extension of Hebrew numerology, which assigns numerical values to each letter of the alphabet. Gematria takes this one step further by interpreting the combined numeric values of words or phrases to reveal hidden meanings and correlations.

The practice dates back at least as far as Babylonian times, although most Jewish practitioners link it to the Hebrew scriptures. Many rabbinic hermeneutists used gematria as a tool for unlocking spiritual insight from scripture passages and for uncovering correspondences between different books of the Bible. Kabbalists also use gematria to uncover deeper meanings in prayers and meditations.

Gematria can help practitioners identify connections between seemingly unrelated scriptures. For example, members of some Hasidic sects often examine gematric codes in order to determine whether a certain Zohar passage reconciles or conflicts with another biblical quote. Similarly, Christian numerologists often refer to gematric numbers when exploring correspondences between parts of the New Testament and select passages from the Old Testament.

In modern times, numerologists commonly use gematric analysis when attempting to unlock spiritual secrets hidden within Hebrew texts such as the Torah and Talmud. Some practitioners believe that because of its deep historical roots in Judaic mysticism, gematria can open doors into knowledge and insight previously closed off to us by traditional religious teaching and scholarship. Psychologists also make use of gematric analysis, associating some numerical values with certain psychological states – such as anxiety (6) or love (22) – while attempting to probe deeper into their patients' unconscious motivations.