Perfect Numbers are Attached to People and Civilization in Surprising Ways. First, what are perfect numbers? In number theory, a perfect number is a positive integer. It is equal to the sum of its proper positive divisors. Of course, that excludes the number itself. Look below. The 1st four perfect numbers are 6, 28, 496, and 8128. Euclid knew of these numbers. He generated the formula.
Euclid proved that 2p−1(2p − 1) is an even perfect number whenever 2p − 1 is prime (Euclid, Prop. IX.36).
For example, the first four perfect numbers are generated by the formula 2p−1(2p − 1), with p a prime number, as follows:
- for p = 2: 21(22 − 1) = 6
- for p = 3: 22(23 − 1) = 28
- for p = 5: 24(25 − 1) = 496
- for p = 7: 26(27 − 1) = 8128.
- Perfect numbers become incredibly high quite quickly. The point is they are quite sparse in the number scheme. The first three (6,28 and 496) make surprising appearances. Let’s begin with number 28.
Perfect Numbers Explain the Use of the Lunar Calendar

The 10th Emanation on the Tree of Life Uses 496
In Hebrew letters doubled as numbers. The doubling of letters and numbers is still called by the Greek name, gematria. The Tree of Life has 10 emanations. They are represented by 10 circles. The 10th is called Makuth. This translates to “Kingdom.” Malkuth has a gematria of 496. By using this 3rd perfect number (496), the intent is that our Creator sought perfection in Creation. This word is used throughout the Bible.
Strong’s Hebrew: 4438. מַלְכוּת (malkuth) — royalty, royal power, reign …
