Journal: Grace Journal
Volume: GJ 05:3 (Fall 1964)
Article: Biblical Numerics
Author: John Jefferson Davis

GJ 5:3 (Fall 64) p. 30

Biblical Numerics

John J. Davis

The general purpose of this study is to ascertain the nature and use of numbers in the Scriptures. More specifically, it will be concerned with the employment of symbolic numbers by the Biblical writers and the hermeneutical principles by which we are to interpret them. The general scope of Biblical numerics is of vital importance to any consideration of Biblical hermeneutics. From the first chapter of the Scriptures through the last, one is confronted with numbers in every type or style of writing. Therefore, anyone contemplating a serious study of the Scriptures and the principles by which one interprets them must commit himself to a serious study of numerics.

The scope of this study will include the nature of conventional numbers as well as that of symbolic numbers. Consideration will be given to: (1) the nature and use of conventional numbers, (2) the rhetorical use of numbers, (3) the symbolic use of numbers and (4) Gematria in Scripture and its place in Biblical Hermeneutics.

The vital problem concerned with the handling of numbers is not whether they are used symbolically and conventionally, but when they are so used. The destructive-critical approach generally places little value on numbers in the Old Testament. The general trend is to consider the greater bulk of them as symbolic or ideal.1 A similar error is committed by some conservative scholars when they attempt to discover some hidden or deep spiritual mystery behind every occurrence of a number. It will be shown that these extremes, as well as others, must be avoided if a sound approach to Bible numerics is to be established. There is a definite place for the study of symbolic numbers, but without certain limits the study becomes a hermeneutical monstrosity and worthless in the quest for theological truth.

The Conventional Use of Numbers

The conventional use of a number is that use which is concerned only with the mathematical value of the number. In contrast to this is the symbolic number which is used not only for its mathematical value but also for its theological significance. Before entering into the study of the specific uses of numbers, it would be well to examine briefly the syntax of numbers as they appear in the Bible.

I. The Construction of Numbers.

Israel, like Assyria, Egypt, Greece, and Rome, used the decimal system of counting. The numbers found in the Hebrew text of the Old Testament are always written out. The same is true for the text of the New Testament with one exception.2 This is the case with other Northwest Semitic writing prior to the exile. At Ugarit, the numerals in the literary texts