by Repetitive sequences are sure to grab anybody’s attention, especially numbers. Whether it be from the universe or a deity, angel numbers are fascinating due to their symbolism as a message from your guardian.
It’s our human nature to think that we’re given signs just to be warned, but angel numbers seem to disagree. When you see one, know it’s there to give you positive news, confirmation, or insight.
As a Christian, you are likely to think that angel numbers are a message from God and his angels, which is what the number 12 biblical meaning carries. However, it’s up to you to interpret it according to your life events.
Number 12 Biblical Meaning
Biblical numerology has grouped a few numbers in a category of numbers with deep meaning and significance. Alongside 3, 6, 7, and 40, we find the number 12. This number frequently indicates perfection or authority that is used in the context of government.
Appearing exactly 187 times, the number 12 is found in both the Old and New Testaments. The Book of Revelation is where the number 12 is tied to its meaning by implying God’s authoritarian stance and the perfection he portrays.
The most notable and prominent instances of the number 12 in the Bible are Jesus’s 12 disciples and Jacob’s 12 sons, who are to form the 12 tribes of Israel. Additionally, there are the 12 prophets that are of enormous significance to the Hebrew Bible.
Examples of uses of the number 12 in the Bible
- Ismael has 12 princes (Genesis 17:20)
Twelve princes descended from the line of Ismael, Abraham’s son whom he fathered through his servant Hagar.
- 12 spies cast around the Promised Land (Numbers 13)
The Israelites sent 12 spies to scout the Promised Land when they were wandering in the desert after leaving Egypt.
- In the tabernacle, 12 cakes were arranged (Leviticus 24:5)
According to the Old Testament, the priest had to set 12 cakes in the tabernacle, which served as a traveling temple.
- The 12 oxen of Elisha (1 Kings 19:19)
The prophet Elijah is summoned to fulfill his mission by plowing with 12 oxen.
- The Bible contains 12 historical books
Such books are the following: 1 Kings, 2 Kings, Joshua, Judges,1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ruth, Nehemiah, Esther, Ezra, 1 Sam, and 2 Sam.
- 12 baskets of food were still full (Matthew 14:13-21)
Twelve baskets of food were still full after Jesus fed 5000 people by performing his miracle.
- The Bible mentions 12 people with a two-letter name
Twelve names in the Bible have only two letters: Ai, Ar, Ed, Er, Ir, No, Og, On, Pe, So, Urand, and Uz.
- 12 tribes came to battle (Revelation 7:5)
144,000 men from each of the 12 tribes of Israel came to battle the Midianites.
- 12,000 people die in the battle of Ai (Joshua 8:25)
The city of Ai is destroyed in Joshua 8, with 12,000 people falling that day.
- The Tree of Life is to bear 12 fruits (Revelation 22:2)
In New Jerusalem, there is a tree that bears 12 fruits. Each fruit represents one month of the year.
- 12 of several different items were placed in the tabernacle (Numbers 7)
12 bowls, 12 silver plates, 12 bulls, 12 rams, and 12 male lambs were placed upon request.
- Salomon appointed 12 governors (1 Kings 4:7)
12 district governors were appointed by Solomon to govern the land.
Breakdown of the number 12 according to biblical symbolism
Biblical numerology suggests a reasoned meaning behind the individual digits that make up the number 12, and it’s the following:
- The meaning of the number 1 in the Bible symbolizes union and God’s control over all that there was, there is, and will be. It’s there to remind you that he holds the highest authority.
- Number 2 in the Bible holds two different meanings. This number symbolizes disagreements, but also strength – physically, mentally, and spiritually. It’s there to remind you that you’re stronger than you might think and that you can surpass any challenge thrown at you.
What does the number 12 mean in Hebrew?
The most famous definition of the word that is symbolized by the number 12 is given by Strong’s Concordance and Brown-Driver-Bringgs (an Old Testament lexicon). Both of the dictionaries provide the same answer, thus validating the meaning of the number 12 in the Bible.
The number 12 in Hebrew transliterates to ‘abdân,’ which when translated into English, means ‘destruction.’
Use of the word ‘destruction’ in the Bible
The word ‘destruction’ appears in one verse in the Bible, and that is Esther 9:5. However, in the translated version by the New American Standard of the Bible, the word is used in not only Esther 9:5, but in Esther 8:6 as well.
Here’s the translation of the verses by the New American Standard:
“For how can I endure to see the calamity which will befall my people, and how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?”
“Thus the Jews struck all their enemies with the sword, killing and destroying; and they did what they pleased to those who hated them.’’
Number 12 Spiritual Meaning and Symbolism
Contrary to their name, angel numbers don’t derive all of their meaning and symbolism from the Bible. The angel number 12 can also give you some insight into other spheres of your life.
Angel number 12 meaning in career
This angel number is here to tell you that great success awaits you in the near future. Besides that, it’s a reminder to take charge and own your leadership skills.
Angel number 12 meaning in love
When it comes to love, the number 12 indicates both positive and negative meanings. On the bright side, it’s an indication of new and exciting romantic relationships. On the contrary, it could be a warning. Be wary of disappointment and potential heartache.
Angel number 12 meaning in family
If you see the angel number 12, take it as a sign to be compassionate. Exercise sympathy towards your family and practice more quality time. Show that you care and appreciate them, and have a positive attitude when doing so.
Bottom Line
As a Christian believer, you should remember that God manifests his domain and makes himself known through numbers. To make a great year, we’re given 12 months. In all past, present, and future situations, God finds a way to use the number 12 to convey his power. The number 12 biblical meaning can indicate both positive and negative matters.
The more often these crucial numbers appear in the scripture, the more we’ll be able to see the accuracy of God’s design. He has worked with numbers and will continue to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is angel number 12 good or bad?
It all depends on your view of life. The number 12 can be a sign to be wary of upcoming challenges or a sign of the good that is coming your way.
What does the number 12 mean for twin flames?
This angel number is considered to be a twin flame number. This means that it’s been shown to you as an indicator of a helping hand in finding your twin flame.
