How does one calculate gematria values?

gematria is an ancient system of assigning numerical values to letters in Hebrew and other languages that arose in antiquity and continues to be used today. It is based on the principles of Gematria, which involve assigning a numerical value to each letter of the Hebrew alphabet and then interpreting words, phrases, or numbers according to these values. The practice was not originally related to spirituality or mysticism but rather used as a tool for pure mathematics. Today, however, particularly among Jewish communities, it is commonly used to explore a variety of spiritual topics and gain insight into one's personal life.

To calculate gematria values, one must first understand the values associated with each letter in Hebrew. Hebrew letters are written from right-to-left and assigned numerical value as such: Alef (א) = 1; Bet (ב) = 2; Gimel (ג) = 3; Dalet (ד) = 4; He (ה) = 5; Vav (ו) = 6; Zayin (ז) = 7; Het (ח) = 8; Tet (ט) = 9; Yod-Yud (י/ י )= 10; Kaf (כ/ ך )= 20; Lamed (ל) = 30; Mem(מ/ ם )= 40 ; Nun(נ/ן)= 50 ; Samech(ס)= 60 ; Ayin(ע)= 70 ; Peh(פ/ ף )= 80 ; Tsadi(צ/ ץ)= 90 ; Qof(ק)= 100 ; Resh(ר)= 200 ; Shin(ש)= 300 ; Tav(ת)= 400 .

For instance, if the word "Torah" were assigned numerical value, its Gematria would be: 6 + 200 + 6 + 5 = 217. To interpret this result further it is worth noting that "Torah" is composed of two root words: horah - meaning instruction - and avar - meaning across boundaries - combining together form a statement of great spiritual power. Depending on the context, scholars look to these interpretations when deciphering Gematria calculations and looking for deeper meanings from the result.

In addition to calculating Gematria for individual words or phrases one can also incorporate Gematria into larger numerical computations for divination purposes on astrology calendars or spiritual systems such as Kabbalah or Tarot—involving the use of letters corresponding numerically with cards or other elements in a signifying system. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to explore ways that Gematria can bring insight and increased understanding from spiritual realms into their material world experiences