Newar numerals

Newari numerals are part of the Newari language. The numbers can be represented in four different ways: in words, in numerals, by symbols, or by allusion.

Words

As in every language, in Newari also we can represent numbers in words. The way of writing can be different according to different Newari scripts, but the pronunciation is the same (excluding dialects).

Numerals

As in every language, in Newari also we can represent numbers in numerals. Numerals vary according to different Newari scripts. The numerals of Nepal Bhasa in the Ranjana script go like this:-

Symbols

Different symbols are used to represent numerals in this system. It is a unique system of numerals among Newar people. This system was mostly used in the Malla era.

Allusion

Different allusions are used to represent numerals in this system. It is also a unique system of numerals among Newars. This was also used in ancient periods. In this system, numbers are represented with universal truths. For example, to represent "1", there is one mouth, and it is a universal truth. So "म्हुतु" (mhutu) meaning mouth is used for one. We can use any universal truth among many. This system is read in reverse, e.g., 12 is written as 21 (ल्हा न्हाय्, lhaa nhya, hand nose).

References

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