Appendix 3: The Greek letters interpreted as numerals

Here we see the Greek alphabet of 24 letters expressed as a set of numerals. The scheme was introduced into Greek society circa 600BC. A given number was recorded simply by forming a string of letters whose values as numerals, when added, provided the required total.

As an appropriate example, here is the evaluation of the Lord's name (nominative case) as it is found both in Septuagint (c 300BC) and New Testament:

The values of the letters - read as numerals according to the scheme detailed above - appear above the text and their respective sums, below.

Of particular interest is the fact that 888, 1480 and their sum, 2368, have 296 (or 8 x 37) as highest common factor; this happens to represent the Hebrew word eretz (meaning 'earth'). Clearly, there is powerful symbolism at work here: the number cements title to name, and name to God Incarnate! Observe also that the ratio, name: title is 3:5 - the proportions of the sides of the mercy seat (Ex.25:17).

Vernon Jenkins MSc

2003-02-10