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It follows logically that, once having decided on
definite symbols to illustrate ideas in any subject, one must then be able to
put these symbols into what is known as a calculus, or a process of
reasoning by symbols, for the purposes of intelligent computation. The word
"calculus" is derived from the Latin "calculus," a pebble, a stone used in
reckoning, and hence a reckoning. Webster defines "calculus," in part, as "A
method of computation; process of reasoning by the use of symbols."
The idea of definite symbols of reality operating in a
calculus of specific thought, such as Leibniz always hoped to find, frequently
seems abstract to the older generation, whereas the younger people, who are
today being educated on a more scientific basis, regard such a thing as quite
natural. As we have seen, however, man uses symbols of some sort in almost
every detail of his experience, and with these symbols he reasons. Thus,
whether he knows it or not, he is always using a calculus of general human
thought. The only difference is that in scientific matters the symbols and
their calculus are ordered and definite, whilst in general experience they are
somewhat vague, and are the outcome of tradition, habit, association, etc.
To summarize: a symbol is merely a representation, or
something that expresses something else. A symbol may be ordered and definite,
or it may be just the outcome of general human thought. A calculus is a process
of reasoning by the use of symbols, and this calculus in scientific matters is
exact and ordered, whilst in ordinary human experience it is more or less
vague.
THE USE OF NUMERICAL SYMBOLISM IN
THE BIBLE
The Bible, from cover to cover, is a record of
developing spiritual thought and experience, symbolized by objects, by nations
and tribes, by sentiment, idea, number, and indeed in countless ways. Moreover,
the Scriptures illustrate that these symbols operate in a definite calculus of
inspired thought. The fact that this record is mingled with traditional Jewish
history, folklore, and mythology in no way affects its fundamental value.
Is it sufficient, then, to try to gain a right
understanding of the teachings of the Bible merely by considering the symbols
derived from sentiment and object, whilst ignoring the specific and ordered
symbols through idea and number, simply because thought is influenced by
traditional beliefs The youth of to-day will not accept the teaching of the
Bible at all unless it can be presented intelligently, scientifically, and
practically, as well as from an ethical point of view, and those who are
regarded as leaders of religious thought would do well to face this fact.
Before we consider number as a very important example
of exact symbolism in the Bible, let us remember that mathematical symbols are
regarded as the most accurate in human thought. Maurice Maeterhnck, in The
Life of Space, writes:— Mathematics merely translates what we cannot
as yet say, what as yet we are unable even to think.
The significance of number as a means of symbolizing
metaphysical values is to-day being widely recognized. Lance L. Whyte, in a
recent broadcast on the work of Whitehead and Russell, stated:—
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