The Most Common Western System
Pythagorean numerology assigns the numbers 1 through 9 sequentially to the 26 letters of the Latin alphabet: A=1, B=2, C=3… I=9, J=1, K=2… and so on. It is the standard framework used in modern Western numerology to calculate the Expression, Soul Urge, and Personality numbers. The system is named after the Greek philosopher Pythagoras, who believed numbers underlie all reality.
Pythagorean Letter-Number Chart
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A J S | B K T | C L U | D M V | E N W | F O X | G P Y | H Q Z | I R |
Pythagorean vs. Chaldean
Pythagorean numerology is sequential — it assigns numbers logically by alphabet order. Chaldean numerology assigns numbers based on vibrational sound values, ranging 1–8 (not 1–9). Pythagorean is more commonly taught and easier to learn. Chaldean is considered older and more accurate by many classical practitioners. Both produce different results for the same name, so knowing which system is in use is essential when interpreting a reading.