How to Interpret Digit Summing

Digit summing is a key formula in the practice of numerology, and an ancient system to interpret the meaning of numbers in our lives. Numerology involves determining which numbers apply to you, personally, and using them as guideposts for choosing partners, careers and actions. Perform digit summing on the numbers that define you, such as birth date and street address, for some new insights into your personal energy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Paper and pen
• Book or online reference

How to Interpret Digit Summing

1. Begin by knowing what you are looking for. In numerology, all numbers above 9 are reduced to single-digit, "core" numbers 1 through 9, although there are a couple of exceptions. You will be reducing compound numbers to their core roots.
2. Choose a meaningful number to you, such as your social security number or complete birth date. Write it down numerically using all digits. For instance, if your birth date was November 8, 1985, you would write: 11, 8 and 1985.
3. Isolate each part of the number and practice digit summing separately, on 11, 8 and 1985 respectively.
4. Add together double digits until you get core numbers. Single digits remain the same in the new equation. With 11, 8 and 1985, you would add: 1+1=2, 8 (stays the same) and 1+9+8+5=23. Further reduce 23: 2+3=5.
5. Add together the numbers in your new equation, 2, 8 and 5. Two+8+5=15, so you need to reduce 15 to its core: 1+5=6. The final number from digit summing of your birth date would be 6. This number is sometimes called your primary, or life path, number and is used to interpret life patterns.
6. Apply the primary number you obtained from digit summing using a respected reference. Read about one of the various systems of numerology online or in books by well-known numerologists and use the information to interpret your personal numbers (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• 11 and 22 are the only two-digit numbers used in or as a result of digit summing. These are called "master numbers."
• To get the most out of numerology, approach it with a spirit of logic and fun.
• Numerology is not an absolute system for predictions or decision-making. Take confidence in the science of number patterns but know that their meanings can differ from person to person.
• Numerology terms vary by system and by author, so this article employs only the most basic, accepted language.