From 7 to 21 to 23: The Powerful Symbolism of Numbers in Film 

Numerology has existed since ancient times and the first records of it date back to 2000 BCE in Babylonia. At this time, numbers were connected to astrology. The practitioners of this field believe that seven, eleven, thirteen, twenty-one, and twenty-three are considered master numbers. This is because each of these numbers carries an inherent vibration within it. They have a distinct energy frequency that causes them to hold a special meaning.

For this reason, a lot of fan theories about popular films suggest that the directors were aware of the numerological significance of the concepts conveyed. In this article, we will explore the powerful symbolism of numbers in film. 

21

The movie 21 was directed by the famous Robert Luketic. It is well respected among movie lovers and gamers who play blackjack but it’s even more popular today after the growing popularity of blackjack online games and variations. The advancements in technology altered several industries, and gaming is one of them, where iconic games like blackjack became mainstream for online players. When movie 21 was filming, online casino games were not as popular as now, but the storyline can still be intriguing today, also for online blackjack fans. 

The premise of the film is simple and based on a true story: a group of MIT students implement their knowledge to count cards to get a total of 21. The film title might seem obvious considering that the goal of blackjack is to get to the number 21. However, when observed closely, it becomes apparent that there is a deeper meaning at play. The number 21 corresponds to The World card in tarot and is considered very lucky. The number also signifies wisdom and intuition, which are both required to play blackjack and win at it.

The students are playing this game to win millions of dollars, which directly signifies the conquering of “the world.” It seems that the film is trying to convey the message of intuition, logic, wisdom, and luck. 

Ocean’s Eleven

Ocean’s Eleven has been loved immensely by fans ever since its release. But the film is much more than a witty action-filled piece of art. It’s quite clear that there are deeper meanings at play here.

The number eleven in numerology corresponds to a gateway or a level-up. The release of this film at the start of a new millennium, the year 2001, suggests that the directors were showcasing something beyond the surface.

In tarot, the number 11 corresponds to the Justice card. It usually means “to triumph over law”. For this film to be about glorifying a heist at the start of the internet revolution signifies that the director may have been talking about how the new millennium will wield opportunities for people to make money hand over fist no matter what corner of the world they may be in.

The movie conveys an ideology that encourages wit and intellect. These are both features of the Age of Aquarius, which the new millennium brought about. 

13 Going on 30

This beloved classic chick-flick movie was directed by Gary Winick. To this day, young girls and women alike seriously enjoy watching this film. The story revolves around a thirteen-year-old girl’s desire to skip over her teenage years and travel to her thirties when she believes her life will be sorted. The rest of the film explores the amusing consequences that follow after the wish is miraculously fulfilled.

The number 13 in the tarot corresponds to the “Death” card. People normally feel scared of this card but what it really means is the end of a phase or significant change. In numerology, the number 13 combines the powers of 1 and 3. Both of these numbers are about confidence and creativity. Combined, they also bring the message of self-renewal. 

As the movie progresses, the protagonist understands the importance of the phase of youth and awkwardness in her life. This imparts in her a new sense of self-confidence and helps her become the best version of herself. It’s pretty clear what the director is trying to say. 

Se7en

The world-famous mystery thriller Se7en was directed by David Fincher and the symbolism behind this movie is glaringly obvious. 

In numerology, the number 7 corresponds to spirituality, insight, introspection, releasing fear, and stepping into the unknown. In tarot, the number is related to “The Chariot”, a card that highlights determination and balance. As the detectives move to resolve the murders, the movie goes on to detail how society is decaying in an introspective manner. It also highlights the spiritual aspect of balance and avoidance of deadly sins.

The detectives work with great determination and wisdom. Furthermore, the movie dives into the concept of the unknown by keeping the identity and motives of the murderer hidden until the very end.

Se7en is an excellent thriller watch. But it is also a very intelligently written movie about spirituality and the deeper parts of people’s psyche and soul.

The Number 23

The Number 23 is another psychological thriller movie. This movie also contains the deep spiritual meanings associated with the number 23.

According to tarot, the number 23 is not completely linked to a particular card; instead, it can be used to associate two cards in the major arcana and one card in the minor arcana. In the major arcana, it is associated with “The Fool” and “The World”. The first one demonstrates new beginnings and the latter shows completion and fulfillment. Both the above-mentioned points are the main themes of this film. In the minor arcana, the number 23 holds the powers of 2 and 3 and transforms into 5, which denotes change, conflict, and growth. 

In numerology, the number 23 stands for the number 2, representing duality, and harmony, while number 3 signifies creativity and self-confidence. The number 23 itself means spiritual growth.

The protagonist sees a mirror (dual) version of himself in a book and learns about conflicts within his psyche. He confronts these conflicts and integrates his shadows within himself, absolving himself of guilt, and growing into a better person. The ending of the film is also ambiguous, pointing towards the many meanings of the number 23. 

Did each of these directors knowingly do all of this? Or was it that the vibration of these numbers was so powerful that it seeped through the message of the film? We’ll leave that up to you to decide. 

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Evelyn Anderson

Hello, my name is Evelyn though my friends call me "Evie". I live in the Pacific Northwest, where I am constantly left in awe by the beauty of nature around me. During the day I have the privilege of caring for and cherishing all living beings as a veterinary assistant. However outside of work I embrace a world of spirituality that has truly enriched my mind and spirit. Tarot, crystals, angel numbers, and my bond with nature are some of the guiding forces on this journey. Ever since my teenage years I have had a strong connection with spirituality and especially tarot.