Have you ever looked at your phone, only to discover the time is exactly 11:11? Or perhaps you noticed your favorite song is two minutes and twenty-two seconds long, and moments later ordered a cup of coffee that totaled $2.22? These are referred to as angel numbers and, in the metaphysical realms where practitioners such as myself operate, there are no coincidences (in fact, I coined this term's acronym — TANC — back in 2019, and it's become somewhat of a catchphrase in my work). Angel numbers are the perfect example of this TANC phenomenon. You can find references to angel numbers all over Instagram, Witchtok (and Astrologytok and Manifestationtok, for that matter). So what do they mean? What do they tell us? And how can we work with them? Let's dive in!

What are angel numbers? 

Within numerology, angel numbers are number sequences (usually three or four numbers) that contain repetition (such as 111 or 4444) and/or patterns (such as 321 or 8787). Although they may appear in the most ordinary places, these digits usually grab our attention and — even if for only a moment — evoke a sense of wonder. The reason we're enchanted by these sequences, however, is an extension of their symbolism: It is believed that these numbers are messages from the spiritual universe that offer insight, wisdom, and directionality. Whether you assign them to angels, guides, ancestors, spirits, or simply a higher state of your own consciousness, angel numbers can confirm you're on the right path, shed invaluable insight on a complicated situation, or even illuminate the powerful, mystical meaning behind recurring themes you experience throughout your life.

Believe it or not, the power and significance of repeating integers has actually been around for hundreds of years. The ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras was a brilliant mathematician, but — in addition to inventing unique quantitative solutions — Pythagoras believed that our reality is a physical manifestation of the energetic vibration of numbers. Fast-forward a few thousand years, and an author named Doreen Virtue published dozens of books in the early 2000s on "angel numbers," coining the term and exploring the unique, mystical messages baked into number sequences. And, over the past two decades, this concept has taken the metaphysical community by storm. Whether you believe that angels are sending you hyper-specific messages or that your subconscious is affirming your consciousness, angel numbers have made a lasting impression on our psyche. 

What makes angel numbers special?

One of the ways angel numbers differ from other esoteric practices is that they're not linked to your birth information. Unlike the zodiac signs, astrology birth charts, or even calculating your life path number in numerology, Angel Numbers aren't determined by your date, time, and/or location of birth. While zodiac sign personality traits offer insight on your likes, dislikes, tastes, and preferences, angel numbers don't shed light on your identity, but rather the ways in which you're moving through the world. Another important characteristic of angel numbers is that they're extremely fluid: You may be followed by an angel number for years, or you may experience an angel number as a singular occurrence. There's no hierarchy in the way you encounter this mystical signature (in other words, a long-term connection isn't more meaningful than a one-time observation) — the most important thing is that you're paying attention. 

Zero is associated with new opportunities. When you witness zero in a sequence (either within a set of three, four, or within a pattern), this could signify a fresh start. You're at the very beginning of a brand new cycle, which means you can create whatever your heart desires. Don't be afraid to make big, bold decisions at this point in your journey.

One is a powerful manifestation figure. If you encounter one as an angel number (either within a set of three, four, or within a pattern), relish the opportunity to make a wish, set an intention, or plant a seed, as this is believed to indicate a "greenlight" from the universe. You are working with extraordinary support from your angels, guides, or ancestors, so — at that moment — the present and future are dynamically connected. 

Two suggests balance, trust, and alignment. Experiencing two in a sequence (either within a set of three, four, or within a pattern) could mean that someone — either in the physical realm or spiritual domain — is helping you get where you need to go. Seeing twos could indicate that it's an excellent time to reach out to your most trusted companion to see if divine collaboration is possible. 

Three is an indication of magnetic creativity. Noticing three as an angel number (either within a set of three, four, or within a pattern) could mean that you have the opportunity to add your unique talents and abilities to a situation. Moreover, the presence of three indicates that by leaning into your innate gifts, you'll find more value and abundance in whatever circumstances you are navigating. Your artistic expression is critical!