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The concept of Perfect number in Christianity

The concept of Perfect number varies across different belief systems. In Christianity, it often refers to seven, symbolizing completeness. Gnosticism view it as a point of spiritual fulfillment and emphasizes the completeness of the number ten. The Catholic Church acknowledges twelve as a perfect number, highlighting its connection to creation and angels. Early Christianity identifies both six and ten as perfect numbers, with six representing balance in creation. Overall, the Perfect number underscores ideals of completeness and fulfillment in spiritual contexts.

Synonyms: Abundant number

In German: Perfekte Zahl; In Dutch: Volmaakt getal; In Finnish: T盲ydellinen numero; In Malay: Nombor yang sempurna; In Spanish: N煤mero perfecto; In Swedish: Perfekt nummer; In French: Nombre parfait

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Perfect number'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) The perfect number is the tenth division, which is above the nine divisions, and it is the ultimate goal to reach the knowledge of God, and is the highest level of understanding.[1] (2) This refers to the number six, which is derived from the creation of the world, according to the prophet, and is associated with marriage and balance.[2] (3) The decade, regarded as the culmination of number theory, serving as the source for all other numbers.[3] (4) The number six, regarded as perfect in its context, suggesting completeness in the creation narrative.[4] (5) The number ten, considered complete according to Pythagorean philosophy.[5]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: Works of St. Anselm

(1) The ideal or complete total of beings, specifically referring to angels in this context.[6]

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) A number that is considered complete or ideal; in this context, twelve is described as a perfect number, being twice six.[7]

From: The city of God

(1) This is a number, like six, that is composed of its aliquot parts, representing the perfection of the works that were completed in six days.[8]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) Refers to the number seven, often associated with completeness, as in the seven prayers in the Old Testament.[9]

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) This refers to the numbers ten and seven, which Christ uses to multiply together to emphasize the concept of endlessness.[10]

Gnostic concept of 'Perfect number'

Gnosticism Books

Significance in Gnosticism (Mystical or Esoteric Christianity):

From: Fragments of a Faith Forgotten

(1) The monad is, in numbers, the decad, which is considered this type of number and represents the completion of the first series of numbers, and the beginning of the process.[11] (2) The number ten, which is seen as a complete and ideal amount, symbolizing multiplicity in the context of Gnostic teachings.[12]

From: Pistis Sophia

(1) The perfect number is a point when the Mixture shall be dissolved, and at that time Jesus will give the command to bring all tyrant gods to the wise fire.[13] (2) A completion point referenced concerning spiritual fulfillment and the universe.[14]

From: The Gnostics and Their Remains

(1) The number ten, which is significant in the Valentinian creed and appears frequently in their religious formulae.[15]