Each name is counted by the letters of its own script. The two totals are added, and the digits of the sum are added until one digit is left: the number of the pair.
Two names
Two names, one number
Two names read together have a number of their own. Write both, and read what kind of bond these names make.
How a name is counted
A name in Arabic letters is counted by abjad, the old order of the alphabet: alif is 1, bāʾ 2, and so on through the tens and the hundreds to ghayn, 1000. Persian’s four added letters take the value of the letters they came from.
A name in Latin letters is counted by the Pythagorean table: the letters are numbered 1 to 9 in rounds, so A, J and S are 1, B, K and T are 2. Accents do not change a letter’s value.
The nine bonds
1 · A beginning
Together these two names start things. The bond is quick and bold; it thrives on a shared aim and wears thin on rivalry. Decide early who leads in what.
2 · A pairing
These two names lean toward each other. The bond is tender and attentive, and it listens well. It asks for plain speech when something hurts.
3 · A conversation
These names talk, laugh and make things together. The bond is light on its feet and generous in company. It asks for one serious hour a week.
4 · A foundation
These names build. The bond is steady, loyal and slow to start; what it sets up lasts. It asks for play, so that the house is lived in as well as kept.
5 · A journey
These names move. The bond is lively and curious, and never quite the same twice. It asks for one fixed point that both return to.
6 · A home
These names make a home wherever they stand. The bond is warm, protective and faithful. It asks that care run in both directions.
7 · A depth
These names meet in quiet. The bond is thoughtful and private, and strong where few can see it. It asks for words now and then, so that silence is not taken for distance.
8 · A force
These names get things done. The bond is ambitious and capable, and it carries weight well. It asks that neither keeps count of who gave more.
9 · A completion
These names widen each other. The bond is generous and forgiving, and it reaches beyond the two of them. It asks them to finish old stories before telling this one.