Quick Specs
- Author: Shirley Blackwell Lawrence
- Publisher: Red Wheel/Weiser (Weiser Big Book Series)
- Format: Paperback, 288 pages
- Best for: Readers seeking a thorough, research-grounded introduction to numerology and letter symbolism
What Sets This Book Apart
Shirley Blackwell Lawrence holds a doctorate in metaphysics and spent decades studying the intersection of numerology, Pythagorean philosophy, Kabbalah, and language. The Big Book of Numerology, originally published as The Secret Science of Numerology, is not a quick-reference guide filled with keyword meanings. It is a genuine attempt to explain where the number-letter system comes from and why the correspondences work the way they do, grounding the practice in something more substantial than tradition alone.
The book opens with the science behind numerology, tracing the origins of the alphabet, exploring Pythagorean number theory, and examining the Kabbalistic Tree of Life as it relates to letter and number vibration. From that foundation it moves into detailed analysis of the numbers 1 through 9 and the master numbers 11, 22, 33, and 44, then extends into word and name analysis using numerological principles. One of Lawrence’s most distinctive contributions is the Inner Guidance Number, a method she developed for using numerological calculation as a tool for intuitive self-inquiry.
How to Use The Big Book of Numerology
How to approach The Big Book of Numerology for both study and practical personal numerology work.
- Read the Foundation Chapters First
Start with the early chapters on the science behind numerology before the number meanings. Lawrence builds on philosophical and historical context. This makes the reference sections in the second half usable.
- Calculate Your Core Numbers
Use the Pythagorean chart to calculate your Life Path, Soul Urge, Expression, and Birthday numbers from your birth name and date. Lawrence provides clear instructions and worked examples for each calculation.
- Use the Word Analysis Section for Deeper Work
The final sections extend numerological analysis from names to words and the Inner Guidance Number system Lawrence developed. Work through word analyses at your own pace after mastering the core calculations.
The Tarot Fellow Standard
I carry this title because Lawrence does something most numerology books do not attempt: she tries to show you the underlying logic of the system rather than just handing you meanings to memorize. The 288-page format gives her room to do that properly, and the Weiser Big Book Series is one of my trusted sources for substantive metaphysical reading. Browse my full books section for other titles in numerology, Kabbalah, and esoteric study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, though it goes deeper than most beginner books. Lawrence covers historical and philosophical foundations before number meanings, so readers without prior background can follow along and build gradually.
The Inner Guidance Number is a method by Lawrence that uses numerological calculation as a tool for accessing intuition and inner self-knowledge, a distinctive contribution that sets this book apart from others.
Yes. It is a repackaging of Lawrence's earlier title, The Secret Science of Numerology, first published by New Page in 2001. The content is the same, republished under the Weiser Big Book Series new format.
Yes. The book covers Life Path, Soul Urge, Expression, and Birthday calculations with worked examples. It also extends into word and phrase analysis using the Pythagorean system for broader numerology study.
Great book to learn numerology, Came in perfect condition
Speedy delivery and thank you for the positive experience