The suggestion of II., which figures the two natures of the Son, the two dispensations, and, according to Saint Gregory the Great, the two-fold law of love of God and man.

Three is the number of the Persons of the Trinity, and of the theological virtues.

Four typifies the cardinal virtues, the four Greater Prophets, the Gospels and the elements.

Five is the number of Christ's wounds, and of our senses, whose sins He expiated by a corresponding number of wounds.

Six records the days devoted by God to the creation, determines the number of the Commandments promulgated by the Church, and, according to Saint Melito, symbolizes the perfection of the active life.