Symbolism of numbers in fairy tales: three, seven, forty

According to their poetic nature, numbers used in folklore can be divided into two groups: sacred (lucky) and traditional numbers. Sacred (lucky) numbers formed in connection with traditions, beliefs and faiths. According to the folk belief, these numbers have magical power and give blessings and joy. Numbers “three”, “seven” and “forty”, deeply rooted in the worldview, rituals and customs of Azerbaijani people, in everyday life, can be considered as sacred (lucky) numbers. In Azerbaijani tales the mentioned numbers carry different functions. Tripartite, a group consisting of three men, in fairy tales: “three brothers”, “three conditions”, “three trials”, “three assignments,” “three assistants”, etc. perform the required function. This number is also used in traditional sayings and narrations. Number “seven” is also widely used in Azerbaijani tales. According to the tradition, creating the new plot and motif or defining the system of images the tale-teller usually uses number “seven”. Number “forty” in tales is often used as the equivalent of the concept “majority”. In the tale formulae “forty days, forty nights road”, “forty days, forty nights wedding” or “forty days, forty nights struggle” not only reflects the size of space and time, but also shows the infinity of space and time. Sacred and mythological ideas of the world order play an important role in formation of these numbers. All this was reflected in some folklore examples, including the tales.