Angel number 666: Why seeing this number is a signal to choose your heart

Forget what you know about the number 666. If series of sixes, like 666, are popping up everywhere, you have no reason to fear: This sequence is associated with love and connection, according to numerology experts.

Repeating numerical sequences like these are commonly referred to as "angel numbers." Each set of digits is associated with a different meaning.

Here's what to know about angel numbers, and the meaning of 666 specifically.

What are angel numbers?

Angel numbers are any sequence of repeating digits. Numbers like 111, 222, 333 and so on can be spotted everywhere, and don't necessarily have to occur in sets of threes. They may also take the form of recurring sequences of objects, like three black cats or five orange cars.

Spiritual practicioners believe that these patterns are a message from a higher power or possibly a loved one who has passed.

“Angel numbers are confirmation that spirit is with you. That you are being guided or that you are on the right path,” Frances Naude, reiki master, tarot reader and spiritual mentor, tells TODAY.com.

She gives an example of the nudge of encouragement an angel number can provide. Let’s say you’re brainstorming something, then you see an angel number. “That’s a confirmation yes,” she says.

But if you’re in a hard moment or are feeling sad, they take on a different form. “I call them angel hugs. It’s this very loving hug or wink from the universe that you’re going to be OK.”

Beyond numbers, she says signs of affirmation can also come in the form of repetition, coincidence or synchronicity.

“Numbers are hard to ignore,” Naude says. “It stands out and it’s easily noticeable.”

What does 666 mean?

Six energy is typically a sign to amplify love and beauty in your life, according to numerology expert Novalee Wilder. The number series invites you to focus on deeper relationships, especially with family and loved ones.

For those who don't sense a lack of love around close connections, Wilder says the lesson could be to examine your relationship to yourself.

"How deep is your relationship to yourself? How much in contact are you with your heart? How much beauty are you surrounding yourself with? How much pleasure are you allowing yourself?" Wilder suggests you ask after seeing 666.

Six energy could also relate to protection, a sign you need an extra dose of support – or maybe a loved one does.

Could 666 specifically be a message from loved ones?

Any angel number could be a message from loved ones who have passed, and are likely now part of your "spiritual team" guiding you through life.

Wilder says that seeing six often — whether as a single digit or repeating — is specifically a message from someone transitioning from one state to another.

This could be a loved one who has just left you, or it could be about bringing new life into the world with a baby. The number series could also signify marriage or a new unity.

What should you do if you keep seeing sixes or 666?

First of all, if you keep seeing 666, you should focus on putting your heart first and chasing relationships, according to Wilder.

Because six energy is associated with beauty, the number also invites you to make space in your life for wonderful new things.

To identify what it is you want, and learn how to bring it in, check out our guide to manifesting — or, more specifically, our guide to manifesting love.

“Manifesting is the process of changing your thoughts, words, feelings, and beliefs to attract something you want into your life. In its simplest form, it works by intentionally shifting your thoughts and energy to align with your desires so what you want ‘manifests,’” Juliette Kristine, a manifestation coach and intuitive healer, told TODAY.com in a previous interview.