Specific numbers are unique, aren’t they? 18 is one such digit that is special and important to Hinduism. Do you know the reason behind the significance of number 18 in Hinduism? Isn’t it interesting to note that there are 18 Puranas, 18 major upa-puranas, and 18 dharmasastras? Additionally, the Mahabharata also divides into 18 parvas. In other words, this way, we understand the number 18 significance in Hinduism in a much better light.
Mahabharat had 18 army divisions with eleven on the side Kauravas ad seven on the Pandava side, which lasted 18 days. The Srimad Bhagavata-Gita, which is a part of Mahabharata, has 18 chapters. In Bhagavad-gita, Lord Krishna describes the qualities of an ideal man in 18 verses at the end of chapter 2, in which he lists 18 traits found in a man of wisdom. So many “number 18” related events in Hinduism!
Significance of Number 18 – Jaya
The theme of all scriptures around all religions is the same: the higher Self’s victory over the lower Self, of righteousness over unrighteousness. Of good over evil, dharma over adharma. Did you know that Vedavyasa initially wanted to title Mahabharata as Jaya, which means victory? It might be because the word appears in the opening stanzas of both, Mahabharatha and Bhagavad-gita. Hinduism gave a critical and notable place to the number 18 by using it meaningfully throughout Hindu scriptures and texts.
In Sanskrit numerology, in the Katapayadi system, each letter has a formula based on a numerical value. In this sense, the numerical value of Jaya is 18. Thus, the number 18 is repeatedly used as a spiritual reminder to be alert in one constant battle for inner, spiritual victory. This is why this number is so auspicious and has a lot of significance, especially in the Hindu religion.
