The Power of Names: Numerology & The Magic of Identity

In many spiritual and magical traditions, names are more than just labels. They hold energy, intention, and meaning, often chosen with care by practitioners for their magical resonance. Some witches select a new name as part of their craft to align with their spiritual identity, while others use the name given at birth. The tradition varies from practice to practice, but one universal element remains: names carry weight, both energetically and numerologically.

In numerology, every name has an Expression Number, Soul Urge Number, and Personality Number. These numbers provide insight into strengths, desires, and how one is perceived by the world. Understanding these aspects can enhance your self-awareness, guide your magical workings, and even help you choose a name that aligns with your intentions.

Decode Your Name with the Pythagorean Chart

To find out your own numerology numbers, you’ll first need the Pythagorean chart to determine the numerical value of each letter in your name. This system assigns numbers 1 through 9 to the alphabet, forming the foundation for calculating your Expression, Soul Urge, and Personality Numbers. By converting letters into numbers and reducing them (unless they form a Master Number: 11, 22, or 33), you can uncover deep insights into your strengths, desires, and how the world perceives you. Each number carries a unique vibration, influencing your life path and energetic imprint. Use the chart below to begin decoding the hidden power of your name.

Pythagorean Numerology Chart

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 letter corresponds to a specific number, which is then added together and reduced to a single digit to reveal its numerological significance. Now that you have the chart, you can move on to calculating your Expression, Soul Urge, and Personality Numbers to gain deeper insight into yourself.

Expression Number

The Expression Number (also known as the Destiny Number) is derived from all the letters in your full name. It represents your natural talents, strengths, and life path, shaping the way you engage with the world. This number reveals your skills, potential, and how you manifest your purpose. It indicates the type of energy you bring into situations and the way you navigate life’s challenges and opportunities. People with the same Expression Number often exhibit similar characteristics, as their name vibrations guide their approach to success and fulfillment. Understanding your Expression Number helps align your strengths with the best possible paths for career, relationships, and spiritual growth.

How to Calculate Your Expression Number

Step 1: Assign Numerical Values

Example: “Willow”

W = 5

I = 9

L = 3

O = 6

W = 5

Step 2: Add the Values Together

5 + 9 + 3 + 3 + 6 + 5 = 31

Step 3: Reduce to a Single Digit (Unless It’s a Master Number 11, 22, or 33)

3 + 1 = 4

Expression Number Meanings

1. A bold and independent leader who naturally takes charge, paving their own way with determination and originality. They have a strong sense of self and are not easily swayed by external influences. Confidence and ambition fuel their ability to achieve great things.

2. A natural peacemaker, this individual thrives in relationships and diplomacy, bringing people together with ease. They are deeply intuitive, understanding others’ emotions and motivations. Harmony and cooperation are their guiding principles.

3. Charismatic and expressive, they shine in creative and artistic pursuits, captivating audiences with their words and ideas. Their natural ability to communicate makes them influential in social and professional spaces. They bring joy and inspiration through their creativity and charm.

4. Hardworking and practical, they are disciplined builders who value stability and long-term success. Their structured approach helps them achieve lasting results in both career and personal life. They thrive in environments that require organization and responsibility.

5. A free-spirited adventurer, they crave change, exploration, and personal freedom. They are highly adaptable and embrace new experiences with enthusiasm. Their dynamic energy draws people in and keeps life exciting.

6. Nurturing and responsible, they find purpose in caregiving, harmony, and community. They naturally take on roles of support, offering guidance and emotional security. Their compassion and loyalty make them a pillar of strength for others.

7. Intellectual and spiritual, they are seekers of deep wisdom and introspection. They value solitude and deep thinking, always searching for higher truths. Their analytical nature allows them to uncover hidden insights and meanings in life.

8. Ambitious and powerful, they excel in leadership, influence, and material success. They are driven to achieve financial and professional mastery, making strategic decisions that lead to prosperity. Their resilience and determination help them rise to the top.

9. A visionary humanitarian, they are devoted to transformation and helping others. They are deeply compassionate and seek to make a lasting impact on the world. Their idealism and broad perspective drive them toward social causes and healing.

11. A spiritually gifted intuitive, they inspire others through their deep insight and enlightenment. They have a heightened awareness and often act as a guiding light in others’ lives. Their visionary abilities allow them to uplift and empower those around them.

22. A master builder, they have the unique ability to turn grand visions into reality. They excel in creating structures, businesses, and movements that leave a lasting legacy. Their disciplined approach and big-picture thinking allow them to achieve monumental success.

33. A selfless teacher and healer, they dedicate their lives to uplifting others with wisdom and compassion. Their energy is deeply nurturing, and they serve as an inspiration for healing and growth. Their influence extends beyond themselves, positively transforming communities and individuals.

Soul Urge Number

The Soul Urge Number (also called the Heart’s Desire Number) is derived from the vowels in your name. It represents your deepest motivations, emotional needs, and inner desires. This number is a window into what truly fulfills and drives you at a soul level. Unlike the Expression Number, which focuses on outward skills and purpose, the Soul Urge Number reflects what you long for internally—whether it’s love, creativity, freedom, or power. Knowing your Soul Urge Number helps you make choices aligned with what truly satisfies your heart and spirit.

How to Calculate Your Soul Urge Number

Step 1: Identify the Vowels in the Name

Example: “Charlotte”

A = 1

O = 6

E = 5

Step 2: Add the Values Together

1 + 6 + 5 = 12

Step 3: Reduce to a Single Digit (Unless It’s a Master Number 11, 22, or 33)

1 + 2 = 3

Soul Urge Number Meanings

1. You crave freedom and autonomy, feeling most fulfilled when leading and forging your own path. Independence is essential to your happiness, and you resist being confined by rules or expectations. Your inner drive pushes you to take charge and make bold decisions.

2. You desire deep relationships and emotional balance, thriving in partnership and collaboration. Harmony and connection are at the core of your spirit, making you highly attuned to others’ feelings. You are most fulfilled when supporting and nurturing meaningful relationships.

3. You thrive on creativity and self-expression, feeling most alive when inspiring and entertaining others. Artistic pursuits, communication, and joy bring you the greatest satisfaction. Your spirit is lighthearted and expressive, always seeking to uplift those around you.

4. You seek structure and stability, finding fulfillment in discipline, order, and building something lasting. A strong foundation and reliability are essential for your inner peace. You are driven to create systems and routines that provide security and consistency.

5. You crave adventure and variety, feeling happiest when exploring, learning, and embracing change. Freedom and new experiences fuel your soul, and stagnation drains you. You are drawn to dynamic environments that challenge you to grow.

6. You long for deep connections and responsibility, finding purpose in nurturing and creating harmony. Family, community, and caregiving bring you the deepest sense of fulfillment. Your heart is most at ease when providing love and support to others.

7. You seek wisdom and inner truth, thriving in solitude, deep thinking, and spiritual discovery. Intellectual and mystical pursuits call to your soul, and you often feel most at peace when contemplating life’s mysteries. Your spirit craves introspection and enlightenment.

8. You desire success and power, finding fulfillment in ambition, influence, and financial stability. Achieving material success gives you a sense of purpose and security. You are driven to build a legacy and take control of your destiny.

9. You feel drawn to humanitarianism and transformation, finding purpose in serving others and embracing spirituality. Your soul thrives when helping those in need and working toward a greater cause. Compassion and selflessness define your deepest motivations.

11. You have a deep spiritual calling and intuitive gifts, finding fulfillment in inspiring and guiding others. Your inner voice is strong, and you are naturally drawn to mysticism and enlightenment. You are driven by a sense of purpose that feels larger than life.

22. You are driven to create lasting change and build something meaningful that benefits humanity. Grand ambitions and visionary ideas fuel your soul, pushing you to turn dreams into reality. You thrive when leading large-scale projects with a sense of purpose.

33. You are a compassionate guide whose purpose is to teach, heal, and uplift others on a grand scale. Love and service are at the heart of your soul, and you are deeply fulfilled when helping people grow. Your spiritual wisdom and nurturing nature make you a beacon of hope.

Personality Number

The Personality Number is derived from the consonants in your name and represents how the world perceives you. It’s the first impression you leave on people and the energy you project outward. This number determines how others initially respond to you in social, professional, and personal interactions. While the Soul Urge Number reveals internal desires, and the Expression Number shows your purpose, the Personality Number shapes your outward persona and the role you naturally take in group settings. Understanding this number allows you to refine your presence and ensure your external image aligns with your true self.

How to Calculate Your Personality Number

Step 1: Identify the Consonants in the Name

Example: “Raven”

R = 9

V = 4

N = 5

Step 2: Add the Values Together

9 + 4 + 5 = 18

Step 3: Reduce to a Single Digit (Unless It’s a Master Number 11, 22, or 33)

1 + 8 = 9

Personality Number Meanings

1. Seen as bold, independent, and confident, they naturally exude leadership qualities. Others view them as strong-willed and self-assured, making them stand out in any setting. Their determination and directness leave a lasting impression.

2. Perceived as diplomatic, intuitive, and gentle, they often act as a mediator in conflicts. Their presence is calming, and they easily connect with others on an emotional level. They are known for their tact and ability to create harmony.

3. Viewed as charismatic, expressive, and socially magnetic, they have a natural talent for communication. Others see them as vibrant and engaging, with an infectious enthusiasm. Their humor and storytelling abilities make them captivating.

4. Seen as reliable, disciplined, and practical, they give off an aura of stability. Others admire their strong work ethic and dedication to long-term goals. Their structured approach to life makes them dependable and trustworthy.

5. Perceived as adventurous, energetic, and free-spirited, they bring excitement wherever they go. Their dynamic nature attracts others, making them the life of the party. They are seen as adaptable and always ready for the next experience.

6. Viewed as nurturing, warm, and responsible, they are often seen as a source of comfort and support. Others turn to them for guidance and emotional security. They naturally create a sense of home and belonging wherever they go.

7. Seen as mysterious, introspective, and highly intellectual, they often give off an aura of wisdom. People are drawn to their depth and analytical mind, though they may appear reserved. They are known for their thoughtfulness and profound insights.

8. Perceived as powerful, ambitious, and authoritative, they naturally command respect. Others see them as determined and capable, often in positions of leadership. Their strong presence and ability to take charge make them influential.

9. Viewed as wise, compassionate, and deeply intuitive, they have a presence that feels transformative. They carry a sense of purpose and are often admired for their humanitarian nature. People see them as an old soul with deep understanding.

11. Seen as inspiring, visionary, and spiritually enlightened, they often leave a lasting impact. Others recognize their intuitive abilities and depth of understanding. Their energy feels almost ethereal, making them memorable and influential.

22. Perceived as a masterful planner and builder, they exude strong leadership and purpose-driven energy. Others see them as highly capable of turning ideas into reality. Their presence radiates determination and grand ambition.

33. Viewed as deeply compassionate, uplifting, and devoted to guiding and healing others. People are naturally drawn to their kindness and nurturing nature. They have a rare ability to inspire and transform those around them.

The Magic of Your Name

Your name holds incredible power, shaping the way you express yourself, what motivates you, and how others perceive you. Whether you embrace the name given at birth or choose a new name to reflect your magical path, understanding its numerological significance can deepen your connection to its energy.

By working with your Expression, Soul Urge, and Personality Numbers, you can uncover hidden strengths, align with your true desires, and refine how you present yourself to the world. In witchcraft and personal growth, this knowledge becomes a tool—one that allows you to step into your full power with clarity and intention.