What Angel Numbers Mean—and Why You See Them Everywhere (2024)

You know when you start seeing a specific number pop up in random places all the time? You stop for your morning coffee, and it costs $5.55. You talk to a new contact at work, and their phone number ends in 555. Then you look at the clock when you leave your office, and it’s 5:55. It can’t be a coincidence, can it? Not according to people who believe in the power of numbers. According to them, you’ve been seeing your angel numbers—spiritual numbers that are trying to give you a sign from the universe.

“Angel numbers are significant because they catch you off guard, and it’s not something that you can seemingly control with your conscious mind,” says Andrea Shakarian, a hypnotherapist and medium certified in angel readings. And similar to being well-versed in zodiac signs and numerology, learning about angel number meanings and how they relate to your life is another way to make sense of the world around you.

But what are angel numbers trying to tell you? Reader’s Digest asked Shakarian and two other spiritual experts who specialize in angel numbers to explain these mystical numerical sequences as they reveal themselves around you. Read on to explore the meaning of angel numbers and spot them in your everyday life.

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What are angel numbers?

Angel numbers are repeating numbers or number sequences, like 1111, 555, 222 or 777, that are believed to be messages from our personal celestial team of angels. “They are used to get our attention, remind us of something important in our lives or confirm something that we’ve been curious about,” says Linda Berry, a professional spiritual coach and the owner of the Spiritual Discovery Center in Southern California.

And they’re typically more persistent than the one-off glance at a clock timed 11:11. “They will usually show up and catch our attention on at least three separate occasions in a specific period of time,” Berry explains. And if that same number shows up over and over, she says we’re receiving a message we shouldn’t brush off—they are trying to relay important information about decisions we’re struggling with, changes that may be coming or future paths we might embark on.

Do angel number sequences have meaning?

The experts we spoke with are divided on this. According to Berry, single-digit numbers signify that “the universe is offering support and angels are helping us.” When the number doubles, the angel involvement also doubles: “It shows angels surrounding us with love and protection, ensuring safety,” she says. As for three- and four-digit sequences, Berry says many consider this to be a sign that miracles are happening, obstacles are being lifted or tables are turning in a favorable position.

However, Shakarian doesn’t believe there’s a difference in power or significance between the sequences—they’re just trying to alert you or get your attention. Each pattern, though, signifies a different message.

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When do you see angel numbers?

Your angel numbers aren’t like your zodiac sign, which stays constant. Instead, they fluctuate over time, particularly if you’re at a crossroads, a new beginning or going through a rough period. Maybe there’s a long period you haven’t noticed any, and then all of a sudden, they start appearing to you more frequently.

“If your guides are really trying to catch your attention, you can even see different number patterns multiple times on the same day,” Shakarian says. Being in tune with these messages can help you connect with your deeper spiritual side to find answers when you’re feeling conflicted, unsure or even excited about a new possibility.

What are the angel numbers’ meanings?

OK, so what do the angel numbers mean? Angel number combinations can vary, but the most common ones are 000, 1111, 222, 333, 444, 555, 666, 777, 888 and 999, each of which has a unique energy and message. Here’s a handy cheat sheet:

000

“This is a high-vibration number and signifies a new beginning,” says Matthias Dettmann, a psychologist and professional tarot reader. Although a zero is often thought of as something insignificant or literally nothing, here it’s almost the opposite: Even if you’re starting from scratch, the possibilities for a new direction in life are boundless, waiting for you to seize one and start along a new path. Some people may see 000 and feel the need to pause or slow down before this major change occurs, which is fine too. When you’re ready, embrace the change that’s ahead.

1111

Many people notice this angel number, which is considered particularly lucky. In fact, you’ve probably heard you should make a wish if you notice the time is 11:11. According to Dettmann, seeing 1111 means you are on the right path. Just like the numeral itself, this sequence is all about looking out for “No. 1″—yourself. If you feel confident in what you’re doing and keep at it, you won’t go wrong.

222

The angel numbers 222 are an indication of great hope, harmony and trust, says Dettmann. Berry believes they can also mean positivity and balance. The duality of the number two is at play here: You either have that balance and equilibrium in your life, or you need to search for it. The twos could also indicate a pair: someone close to you who you should connect with on a deeper level or who might be coming into your life.

333

If you see the sequence of angel numbers 333 often in your life, Dettmann says it’s a very jubilant sign and is directly connected to “divine creativity and growth.” You have specific talents you should be embracing, or if you’ve already been experimenting with them, it’s time to dive into them even more. Let your passion flow for the projects you’re involved in, whether for work or pleasure, because you’ll bring forth a wealth of imagination, ingenuity and vision.

444

Angel numbers 444 ensure you have the proper guidance from your guardian angel as a direct result of your honesty, says Dettmann. It can be hard to walk the straight and narrow instead of cheating or cutting corners, so although you may be questioning if it’s worth it, rest assured that your spiritual guides are there by your side and you’re doing the right thing. The string of fours represents stability, something you stand for or are seeking. Your down-to-earth, solid nature keeps you grounded, helping you toward the sense of security and safety you value.

555

The 555 sequence can feel very comforting, as it signals an upcoming transitional phase and encourages freedom from fears, says Dettmann. Be prepared to let it go and embrace your new life, whatever it may hold. The difficulties you’re going through right now will soon be over, and although change itself can be scary, it’s also the path to growth, new experiences and more happiness.

666

The number sequence 666 often has a negative reputation, due to its association with demonic spirits, but it’s actually quite positive as far as angel number meanings are concerned. “This angel number is all about focused activities that your guardian angel wants you to perform,” Dettman says. Don’t be concerned—those won’t include acts of evil! Rather, sixes are about refocusing your attention inward, paying attention to what’s truly important to you and acting on it. By gaining this clarity of purpose, you can find greater inner peace.

777

Seven is the number often associated with luck—especially when it comes to gambling. But according to Dettman, 777 is also the most mystical of the angel numbers. “It’s related to pure and direct divine guidance,” he says. Your inner being is open and willing to receive inspiration from your guardian angels, and you’re ready to take a deeper journey into your spirituality. Unlock this inner power to become the best version of yourself in all aspects of life.

888

Although 777 might be lucky, it’s actually 888 you want to look out for as a financial sign from the angels. “This angel number is associated with financial luck and a path to financial success,” says Dettmann. That doesn’t mean you don’t have to work for it but rather that your hard work will be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and a large windfall.

999

If you see 999, you’re receiving a sign from the universe telling you to convert negativity into positivity, says Dettmann. Easier said than done, but the last of the single digits signals that it’s time to make a change in your life for the better. You have power over how you see the world and interpret the things that happen to you, so remember that you ultimately hold the key to your own success and happiness.

Other angel number combinations and their meanings

In some circ*mstances, you also might notice other angel number patterns consisting of multiple numerals, which combine their individual meanings to create new ones. Here’s what some of these patterns could signify for you:

• 1010:You’re ready to move on to a higher spiritual path and purpose.
• 1212: You’re on the right track to self-fulfillment (as represented by the number one) and balance (as represented by the number two) in your life.
• 1234: This sequential pattern means you’re headed in a positive direction, and each number represents a new stepping stone.
• 5656: Get prepared for the transformation that’s coming and be open to the new possibilities for a better life.
• 711: You’re in luck because you have the encouragement and support of the angels in your current endeavors. Trust yourself.

What should you do after seeing angel numbers?

When you see an angel number, Dettmann suggests interpreting its impact and showing your gratitude for the message by pausing in the moment you receive it to reflect on what’s happening around you. You may also want to express thanks during prayer or meditation.

And if you see the angel numbers pop up frequently, it’s definitely a message that should not be ignored. “It’s like a beacon from our angels,” Berry says. When we acknowledge the angel numbers and take in the message connected to them, we work alongside our angels, she explains, “which will result in progress and create improvements and changes in the direction of our life path.”

FAQs

How do you find your angel numbers?

Your angel number might not always be the same—it can change based on what’s happening in your life. Dettmann says the simplest method to find out what your angel numbers are right now is to keep a record of the numbers you see most often. “Narrowing down the record will give you your angel number,” he says. Although sometimes you might not be able to help but notice them, it’s also wise to be on the lookout for number patterns you see. Think: license plates, phone numbers, money, time stamps, measurements, the time of day or whenever you come across numbers.

What is the history behind angel numbers?

“There are many hypotheses about the origins of angel numbers, but no one has a confirmed history except to rely on Pythagoras,” says Dettmann. This ancient Greek philosopher is often credited for creating numerology, the study of numbers and their meaning (and the science behind angel numbers). Numerology, though, focuses on single digits instead of number patterns—for example, yourlife path numbercomes from adding up the month, day and year of your birthday until you have one digit.

In the early 2000s, author Doreen Virtue helped popularize the concept of angel numbers—even coining the term—through her dozens of books on the subject, including Angel Numbers 101. Virtue brought the concept further into the mainstream and opened up a world for people to explore and investigate signs through numerical sequences.

How are angel numbers related to the zodiac?

Although you can’t technically find your angel numbers based on your zodiac sign, Berry says they are still directly connected. “Each of the planets in our solar system has an angelic being associated with it, known as an archangel,” she says. These angels also rule over the zodiac constellations and influence the numbers in your birth chart (the position of the stars at the exact moment and location you were born). So if these angels are connected to both the zodiac and angel numbers, it stands to reason that they influence each other. “Archangels help us to understand our individual birth sign personalities and the blueprint of our souls, bringing the same aspect of the numerology connections to the world of astrology,” Berry says.

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Sources:

• Andrea Shakarian, hypnotherapist and angel medium; email interview, 2023
• Linda Berry, spiritual coach and owner of Spiritual Discovery Center; email interview, 2023
• Matthias Dettmann, astrologer, professional tarot card reader and psychologist; email interview, 2023