Threesology Research Journal

Three and Counting ...1

A Study of the Repeating 3s Phenomena


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Levi Jeans watch pocket

For those unfamiliar with the concept of "threes" let me offer a "3rd" (front pocket) Levi jeans styled watch/coin "slot" quantity of references which explore the phenomena from different perspectives:


Jessie Duffield's introductory triad

3 things little girls and boys are made of

  • The Significance of Three: A Common Theme Across All Religions, by Universal Enlightenment & Flourishing 3 Wisemen Myth illustration
    • In Wicca and other forms of Paganism, the number three is significant for several reasons: it is often associated with the Law of Threefold Return (or the Rule of Three), a principle stating that actions and energies sent out will return to the sender threefold; it symbolizes key triads like the Triple Goddess (Maiden, Mother, Crone) and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit; and it is used in ritual and spellcraft to build energy, enhance stability, and create balance through threefold structures.
    • The Triple Goddess is a deity or deity archetype revered in many Neopagan religious and spiritual traditions.
    • Examples:
    3 fold belief of Wicca
    1. Greek:
      1. Persephone (Maiden), Demeter (Mother), and Hekate (Crone)
      2. The Moirai (Fates): Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos
      3. The Charites (Graces): Aglaea (Splendor), Euphrosyne (Joy), and Thalia (Good Cheer)
    2. Greek/Roman:
      1. The goddesses Artemis (huntress/maiden)
      2. Selene (moon/mother)
      3. Hekate (underworld/crone)
    3. Roman:
      1. Diana (huntress/maiden)
      2. Luna (moon/mother)
      3. Trivia (Hecate/underworld/crone).
    4. Hindu: (The Tridevi are the consorts of the Trimurti and also considered manifestations of Mahadevi, the Supreme Goddess.)
      • Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Parvati
    5. Celtic: Triple goddess Morrígan, alternatively described as:
      • 3 sisters, Badb, Macha, and Nemain (or Anand)
      • 3 goddesses of sovereignty... Ériu, Fódla, and Banba.

Logo for Inside the Supernatural youtube series
  • What are the Paracelsus' three primes (Tria Prima) of alchemy?
    • First Prime: Sulfur, representing the soul or consciousness.
    • Second Prime: Mercury, symbolizing the spirit or mind.
    • Third Prime: Salt, representing the body or physical matter.
  • Three primary symbols of witchcraft carrying deep spiritual meanings and are integral to many practices:
    1. The Pentagram: Represents the five elements—Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Spirit—and is often used for protection and grounding.
    2. The Triple Moon: Symbolizes the phases of the moon and represents the Maiden, Mother, and Crone aspects of the Goddess, embodying the cycle of life.
    3. The Triskele: Represents the concept of triplicity in unity, signifying birth, death, and rebirth, and is used in various rituals.
  • Druidic Triads in Celtic Mythology by Mythology Worldwide
  • Druids Do It In Threes by David Bridger
  • The Pagan Trinity by Paganeo
  • The Number Three and Nine in Old Norse Mythology You-tube presentation by Arith Härge
  • Note: if Gurdjieff had been given a list of "threes" compiled from different subjects available today, his search for truth as he knew it, might well have been overwhelmed. So often I find those who are enthralled by the recurring presence of the "three" in theology— whose primary source for examples appears to come from writers who have little to no interest in the different genres of science. Instead, they manifestly focus on the metaphysics/spirituality of others who also exhibit a deficiency in providing examples of "threes" from different sciences. While they may honestly seek a Universal truth they think is exhibited in a given multiplicity of "threes" examples, their examples typically lack a firm groundedness in reality, and instead rely too heavily on some metaphysical relativity whose flexibility is contoured by the limits of their imagination. They want only those examples which confirm their present shallow metaphysics and shy away from examples suggesting they need to seriously re-think their personalized spiritual equations.

A list of threes on a sidewalk placard
  • Grouping Artworks and Objects in Threes, by Kate Elkington
  • The Rule Of Three In Writing: by Amy de la Force
  • Using the Rule of Three in Speeches by Andrew Dlugan
  • Rule of Threes Examples in story-telling Narratives by Fictional Journeys
  • The Rule of Three (A recurring Narrative) by Kate Forsyth
  • In a multicultural context, the tripartite model of cultural identity describes three primary components:
    • Cultural knowledge — This component involves an individual's personal understanding and endorsement of a culture's core characteristics, such as its values, beliefs, history, and practices.
    • Social connections — This aspect refers to an individual's connection to a culture through networks of specific social relationships, such as family, close friends, and neighbors.
    • Category labels — This component connects an individual with a culture through their identification with a depersonalized, collective cultural group.
  • Multiple scholars have also explored a second, related tripartite framework that defines identity at the 1) individual, 2) group, and 3) universal levels. The "three phenomena" that can be related to these aspects include a) social contact, b) multiculturalism, and c) globalization, which influence the formation and experience of identity.

There are caterpillar people all around us

"Threes" discussions about Literary-focused contexts typically exclude examples from various Science-defined subjects; and therefore sets the stage and scripted dialogue which instigates a stark absence for any initial and further consideration of this very important Anthropological, Linguistic, Psychological, and Sociological Phenomena; thus resulting in a misunderstanding (and the creation of false assumptions) about the recurrence of threes as an expressed cognitive pattern (among others) that continues to be repeated in Multiple contexts... as well as why it is repeatedly absent from other contexts. Its absence is as much a telling point about human cognitive development and application as is the recurring presence of "threes" in its multiple forms and the symbology being employed. It's importance becomes magnified into a greater clarity when we:

  • Contrast it with the histories of Monism, Duality, and Plurality.
  • Identify and consciously acknowledge the presence of a 1-2-3 maturational development sequence.
  • Become aware of the repeated mis-labeling of the 3-to-1 ratio as a "four" (quaternary, quaternion, etc...) pattern.

3 little pigs of Fairytale fame
  1. 3 Pigs, 3 Bears, 3 Billy Boats gruff, 3 Fiddlers, 3 Kittens
  2. 3 and 9 values attached to the Norse Yggdrasil (aka Mímameiðr) tree of Norse Mythology:
    • Supported by 3 enormous roots drawing water from 3 wells.
    • Root 1: Reaches to the Well of Urd, where the Norns, the goddesses of fate, reside.
    • Root 2: Extends to the Well of Mimir (Mímisbrunnr), the well of wisdom.
    • Root 3: Dives to the well Hvergelmir (a boiling spring) in the realm of Niflheim.
    • 3 Norns (Urðr, Verðandi, and Skuld) live at the well Urðarbrunnr.
    • Yggdrasil's roots and branches are home to the Nine Worlds.
    Stones, Sticks, Hay
  3. 3 sacred trees common in Indian religions (which collectively form the Triveni and hold significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism):
    • The Pipal (Ficus religiosa).
    • The Banyan (Ficus benghalensis).
    • The Bael (Aegle marmelos).
  4. 3 traditional architectural columns of the Ancient Greeks: Doric, Ionic, Corinthian.
  5. 3 traditional architectural colums of the Ancient Romans (who copied the Greeks): Tuscan- Doric- Composite
  6. 3 styles of architecture used by the Mayans (reflecting the diverse architectural achievements of the Maya civilization across different regions.):
    • Puuc Style: Known for its elaborate facades and geometric patterns, this style is characterized by its use of repeating geometric patterns on building facades and extensive use of Chaak rain god masks.
      • 3 Greek and 3 Roman columns
    • Izamaleño Style: This style is associated with the city of Izamal and is marked by the use of megalithic stones in temple construction, featuring large pyramids and monumental structures.
    • Peten Style: Influenced by the Guatemalan region, this style is characterized by its architectural elements that reflect the influence of neighboring civilizations.
  7. 3 basic geometries applied to the world's trees aligned with elevation:
    • Linear-shaped at lower elevations such as the palm, banana, or coastal red wood.
    • Circular-shaped at mid elevations such as oak, elm, and robust fruit trees.
    • Triangular-shaped at high elevations such as the Christmas tree and other pines.
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  8. 3 basic geometric generalization attributed to Internal combustion engines:
    • Linear, low power (e.g. linear petrol and linear steam engines (Model Ts used inline engines); to include inline, horizontally opposed, slanted forms...
    • Circular, more power (e.g. rotary piston design, generators)
    • Triangular, higher power: (this also includes the "V" compressibility function for turbine engines having 3 parts: Compressor, Combustion chamber and Turbine; (V-engine source for some of the information3)
      • V2 Engine: Two cylinders arranged in a V shape, ideal for lightweight motorcycles and small vehicles.
      • V4 Engine: Four cylinders arranged in two banks, balancing performance and efficiency in motorcycles and some compact cars.
      • V6 Engine: Six cylinders arranged in two banks, commonly used in family cars, trucks, and SUVs for their balance of power and fuel economy.
      • V8 Engine: Eight cylinders arranged in two banks, known for its power and performance, found in many muscle cars, trucks, and high-performance vehicles.
      • V10 Engine: Ten cylinders arranged in two banks, often seen in high-performance cars and some larger trucks.
      • V12 Engine: Twelve cylinders arranged in two banks, commonly found in high-end luxury cars, sports cars, and some high-performance vehicles.
      • V16 (1930 Cadillac, also the "W" Veyron)
      • V24 (Industrial and aircraft)
      • V32 (WWII B-29 Bomber)
      • These configurations allow for a compact design while still producing high power output, making V-shaped engines suitable for a wide range of vehicles and applications.
Altitudinal gradient analogy with tree geometries

  1. 3 categories of lumber grades (yes, I am aware of other grading systems):
    • Structural Lumber Grades: These grades are used for structural applications and are divided into high structural grades like Select Structural, No. 1, and No. 2, which are suitable for heavy-duty construction where maximum strength is required.
    • Appearance Grades: These grades focus on the wood's aesthetics rather than strength. They include Select and Premium Grades, often used for visible finishes or fine woodworking projects.
    • Utility Grade: This is typically the lowest grade of lumber, used for projects where aesthetics and load-bearing strength are not primary concerns. Utility grade lumber is often repurposed for temporary structures or packaging.\
    Example of a fertilizer bag indicating the N-P-K ratio
  2. 3 primary elements (components/mixture) of fertilizers (referred to as a "synergy"); and denoted as N-P-K on packaging:
    • Nitrogen (N): Promotes leafy growth and is vital for photosynthesis.
    • Phosphorus (P): Supports root development, flowering, and fruiting.
    • Potassium (K): Enhances overall plant health, disease resistance, and water regulation.
  3. 3 primary elements of Dynamite:
    • Nitroglycerin – This is the active explosive component. It's highly sensitive and powerful but unstable on its own.
    • Absorbent Material (e.g., Diatomaceous Earth) – This stabilizes the nitroglycerin by absorbing it, making it safer to handle. Alfred Nobel originally used diatomaceous earth for this purpose.
    • Stabilizers and Additives – These can include compounds like sodium carbonate to reduce acidity and improve shelf life, helping prevent spontaneous decomposition
    3 part ratio of concrete mix and other items
  4. 3 Primary Ingredients of cement:
    • Lime (Calcium Oxide – CaO)
      • Makes up about 60–65% of cement.
      • Essential for forming calcium silicates, which give cement its strength.
    • Silica (Silicon Dioxide – SiO2)
      • Typically 17–25% of the mix.
      • Contributes to the strength and durability of cement by forming dicalcium and tricalcium silicates.
    • Alumina (Aluminum Oxide – Al2O3)
      • Present in smaller amounts (3–8%).
      • Helps in the quick setting of cement and lowers the clinkering temperature during production.
  5. 3 primary elements of dynamite: Nitroglycerin, Sorbents, and Stabilizers.
  6. 3 primary ratios of gunpowder components:
    • Potassium Nitrate (75% by weight)
    • Charcoal (15% by weight)
    • Sulfur (10% by weight)
  7. 3 types of matter in the universe (3 ratios):
    • Normal Matter: This includes all the atoms that make up visible objects such as stars, planets, and humans, making up about 5% of the universe.
    • Dark Matter: This mysterious substance makes up about 27% of the universe and does not emit light, affecting the movement of galaxies and stars.
    • Dark Energy: This component accounts for about 68% of the universe's mass and energy, driving the expansion of space.

3 percentages of energy distribution 3 matter types from a different perspective
3 basic shapes to the universe 3 misc. theories

When "threes" examples are listed, the recurring pattern of most collectors is to list those from a give subject such as the triads of ancient Egyptian religion, mythology, Fairy tales, or some other specific and specialized genre of interest such as writing speeches, children's stories, science fiction, advertisements, etc... Hence, it is rather easy to compile the list under a singular heading. However, if you are a collector surveying multiple subjects, your first inclination may be to label the examples under the specific type of subject such as Anatomy, Physiology, Physics, Biology, Cartoon figures, Psychology, etc... However, these categories are reminiscent of the efforts used by Librarians in the adoption of one or another classification system comprising Inter-national, National, and regional focuses. However, one might reference three standards:

  • Dewey Decimal System:
    • Developed by Melvil Dewey in the 1870s, this system is widely used in public libraries and K-12 school libraries. It organizes books into ten main categories, each represented by a three-digit number, allowing for further subdivision into more specific topics. This system is currently used in approximately 200,000 libraries across at least 135 countries.
  • Library of Congress Classification (LC):
    • Most academic libraries in the United States utilize the LC system, which is more complex and better suited for the extensive collections found in universities and research institutions. The LC system uses a combination of letters and numbers to categorize materials, making it more flexible for larger collections.
  • Current Trends:
    • While the Dewey Decimal System remains prevalent, there is a growing movement among some libraries to adopt alternative classification methods. For example, some libraries have started using systems that categorize books (or DVDs, etc...) by subject rather than by number, aiming to create a more engaging and user-friendly experience for patrons. Libraries like the Rangeview Library District have implemented their own systems inspired by bookstore layouts, which prioritize subject-based organization over numerical classification.

With respect to categorizing multiple examples of "threes" from multiple subjects, we are dealing with a specificity of human cognitive activity that has been largely taken for granted and viewed dismissively by those whose underlying world-view orientation is based primarily on dualities such as with Mathematics and Psychology, and noted as a persistence of dichotomization, which is appreciably tragic if human consciousness has the potential of developing into what might be described as a "third consciousness", in concert with the underlying initiatives of a similar developmental trend having occurred on basic levels of biology such as the now standard triplet code of DNA thought to have arisen from a singular than double formula, and the complexity of development having occurred with the 3 Germ layers, which also arrived by a developmental 1-2-3 process. Indeed, if you have a child that is experiencing an unrecognized developmental shift into some measure of a 3rd consciousness but there is not academic sensibility or sensitivity to such a possibility, then the typical response is to medicate the child, to place them in some "special" classroom or course so that they can be "normalized" into a society dominated by professionals whose training and day-to-day world-view is oriented to the old standard of dichotomization... whereby they must seek out for themselves an activity, a group... legal or otherwise, that best provides for some measure of acceptance to their "non-normalness".

Why shouldn't there be an increased rebelliousness not only among the very young, but older populations as well? Why shouldn't there be a growing trend away from religion with its antiquated patterns of viewing the world in dualities, and whose only "thinking outside the box" efforts are to utilize existing dualities to formulate some makeshift trichotomy which is little more than an embellishment of the old system of dualities! The current Western religions and Eastern philosophies and prevailing institutions of government, business, and multiple academic genres are inadequate for addressing issues for a context of developmental consciousness they are wholly unprepared for. Instead, let us continue to allow such institutions to perpetuate a cycle of nonsensical policies, practices, and laws which create conditions which leave the people no choice but become non-compliant and thus forcing the established systems of dichotomy to retaliate with force to incarcerate, maim, or kill to its satisfaction. The underlying cause of so much conflict is due to the development of a third consciousness confronting a system of practiced and enforced duality. Yes, see them in their two-pattern rhetoric: DO or DIE, My way or the Highway, Black/White, Heaven/Hell, slow/fast, All or Nothing, Nature/Nurture, yin/yang, binary computer language, etc...

Where and how the "3" is used representing the X-tra ordinary or some metaphysic when applied to notions of spirituality: (Suggesting humanity has the potential to increase its third consciousness development already taking place.)

  • The wide spread view that it's a magical number. (i.e. "super"-stition)... No other number has this widespread distinction in so many contexts.
    • Death occurs in threes (There exists no evidence other than for the recurrence of the perception thereof.)
    • 3 on a match (WWI idea related to the time needed for sniper to get a bead on a target.)
    • 3rd time's the charm (Recurring evidence for the expression, not necessarily the deed... Somehow it is thought that 2 wrongs or bad events somehow meld into a favorable one.)
    • Between you, me and the fencepost. (Embellished duality advancing a state of secrecy to be kept; used as a triad expressed by older generations.)
    • Luck comes in threes. (The dichotomy of death occurring in threes.)
    • Rule of three: (Dominant acceptance of an effect to be applied in multiple contexts. No other number is used as often or as broadly.)
    • Adoption by Western Religions, Eastern philosophies, Metaphysics, Sports, Entertainment, Science, etc... as having a special power or reference.
    • Symbolizes Harmony of two opposing positions. (This is an act of creating an embellished duality, and not a true trichotomy.)
    • As a geometric form, it is said to conduct or focus some measure of energy such as sitting under a triangle or using multiple over-lapping triangles to express power such as in the creation of a star (law enforcement badge), or interconnect linear models such as a pentagram (witchcraft) or pentagon (U.S. military complex) or triadic ensembles of people to produce something good or something bad.
  • Superposition, in physics represents more than two states simultaneously.
  • The position beyond "2" is sometimes referenced with different words or symbols: many, more, much, few, some, ...
  • 3-point shot in basketball. (There are no 4 or more point shots.)
  • 3 strikes and you're out in baseball. There are no four-strikes, but foul balls do occur.
  • 3-person limit used by the Nobel prize committee for awards.
  • 3 standard Olympic medals.
  • Three-peat distinction in sports.
  • Triple threat distinction typical in performing arts.
  • Tripartite Aspects of Masonic Beliefs:
    1. Brotherly Love: Fosters harmony and unity
    2. Relief: Emphasizes charity and philanthropy
    3. Truth: Inspires an unceasing quest for wisdom, self-reflection, and integrity in thought and deed.
      • Three tenets of Obligation:
        1. Morality: Through the pursuit of truth, Masons continually refine their ethical compass and strive to live upright lives.
        2. Charity: Guided by relief, they devote time and resources to philanthropic projects, embodying the Craft’s commitment to helping the vulnerable.
        3. Obedience and Harmony: Brotherly love extends to respecting laws, customs, and the dignity of all, promoting social cohesion and civic responsibility
  • Freemasonry’s Journey by way of three degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.
  • 3 symbolic pillars of every Masonic lodge: Wisdom, Strength, Beauty.
  • 3 Masonic symbols (square, compass, and letter G) conveying deeper philosophical truths.
  • 3-axis, 3-allies distinctions perpetrated by journalism in WWII.
  • 3rd Reich of Hitler
  • Trinity in Christianity, Trimurti in Hinduism, multiple threes in Eastern philosophy.
  • Super-positions of 3 demarcated by a comma in value notation. (ones-tens-hundreds, thousands- ten thousands- Hundred thousands,...)
  • Colloquial references of time: seconds- minutes- hours; days- weeks- months; ...
  • Human female pregnancy: 3 trimesters
  • 3-part human anatomy (not including the several triads): List of 3s in Anatomy
  • Groups of Gods and Goddesses. (Religion, Mythology)
  • Groups of Angels and Multiplicities... 3-6-9-12...
  • 3-fold rule in witchcraft (Today's Wicca involving 3 forms of Hectate: Maiden- Mother- Crone).
  • Groups of demons and monsters.(666, 3-headed dog Cerberus, 3 furies...)
  • Gropus of demon/monster children born from Gaia (mother earth is a monster breeder).
  • Superior development (i.e. 3 germ layers, trilaminar cell (called bi-lipid)...)
  • Superior construction (i.e. DNA triplet code, 3 particle families...)
  • Organizational strategy (i.e. Military)
  • Superposition on bipartite structures:
    • Yin/Yang... I Ching triads (are actually embellished Dyads/Byads)... Yin-Unity-Yang is an internalized duality
    • Dualities of Psychology rendering tripartite ideas (e.g. Id-Ego-Superego idea, Triune brain theory, triune love theory...)
    • Dualities of Mathematics rendering tripartite ideas (e.g. trigonometry, Boolean algebra, Pythagorean theorem)
    • Binary computer language... ternary/trinary quantum computing being attempted
    • Bipedal gait... auditory tripartite structure for equilibrium (e.g. 3 semi-circular canals)

No one is discussing the exhibited efforts to move from dichotomies to trichotomies as a reflection of an underlying biologically crafted impulse of developmental cognition. Chemistry from which biology arose, had to adapt to the primary patterns of the early Earth environment, one of which was not only the 2-patterned night/day photo-affecting sequence, but also the 3-patterned dawn- noon- dusk sequence in relation to an accelerated rotating 3rd planet Earth where photo-periodic moments played a crucial role from which photo-receptive life arose. Early life acted like an impressionable artist, not an analytical chemist.

Examples of dualities to trichotomies

List continues on The Addendum page as well as here: More Threes Examples

Origination: Friday, June 6th, 2025... 12:48 AM
Date of initial posting: Friday, June 6th, 2025... 5:27 AM
Updated Posting: Sunday, Oct. 12th, 2025... 11:49 AM
Contact: herbobuckland(-at-)hotmail.com