When it comes to choosing a lucky number, we all have our favourites. Some are based on our birth date or a special event, whilst others reference the numerological value. The Chinese in particular, believe in sounds and figures that reflect good fortune and good luck. They have had a love affair with the number 8 for countless years. The word for “eight” in Mandarin, sounds similar to the word which means “prosper” or “wealth”. In regional dialects, like Cantonese, the words for “eight” and “fortune” are also similar.
There is also a resemblance between a double eight, “88”, and the “double happiness” (shuangxi), a popular decorative design composed of two stylised characters. We can see “8” in the well-known infinity symbol which represents limitlessness. The “mystic knot” is another revered design similar to the infinity symbol which symbolises never-ending power.The number 8 star used in Feng Shui is looked upon as a fortunate star number as well and added that we are currently in Period 8 (2004 -2023) makes the number 8 star even more fortunate as it is now the most prominent. As a “timely” star number it possesses positive attributes and is seen as the main wealth star at the moment.
Because of the auspiciousness of the number eight, some people will often choose, attempt to obtain, or pay large sums of money to have this number for their phone numbers, street addresses, driver’s license number, vehicle license plate number, bank account number, you name it. In Hong Kong, a home with the number 8 will fetch an exorbitant price compared to an identical neighbouring home. When you have two eights in the number, it then becomes doubly pleasing to the Chinese ear. You’re literally hearing prosperity and more prosperity. If we use an example of a telephone number like 818 282 2828 it translates to “prosperity guaranteed prosperity, easy prosperity and more easy prosperity”. Now who wouldn’t want a number like that?
The number eight is considered the luckiest of all numbers to the Chinese as it portends to prosperity and wealth. Consequently, they will make use of it as often as possible, using it also in the selection of special events. The most auspiciously held date this year for the Chinese will be the 8th of August 2008. This year you will undoubtedly see many wedding ceremonies and scheduled caesareans all hopeful to tap into such a lucky date. Another such important event is the upcoming Olympic Games in Beijing, which will commence at precisely 8.08:08pm on the 08/08/08.
In Feng Shui we use the art of Date Selection; this uses the formation of the stars to calculate the auspicious dates and times. Now it turns out that the chosen date for the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games coincides with what is known as a “Success Day”. A “Success Day” is the most auspicious and positive day to have for activities that require a positive start; such as weddings and new business transactions. The Ba Zi chart for 08/08/08 reveals a Dragon day in a Monkey Month, in a Rat year. These three animal friends form what is termed as a Water frame. So, there is harmony and support for the day.
Date Selection is used to schedule an event at a point in time when the energies are most conducive for that particular activity. It can be used to select auspicious dates for activities like business openings, weddings, moving into a house, ground breaking, operations etc. As “timing is everything”, coupled with plenty of good luck from our much loved 8, it looks as though the 8th of August 2008 is really going to be something special. So, I’m going to make sure I plan this date for an important event, I hope you do too.