The number Six hundred, sixty, six, or 666 is one of the most intriguing numbers in the Bible because it supposedly holds the key to the identity of one of the most fearfully anticipated villains in human history.
Theologians, futurologists, and many brilliant minds over the centuries have endeavored to crack the code of the number. Some Kabbalists have studied the three elements of the number to derive significance from each. Irenaeus, a 2nd c. bishop found significance in the 600 as the age of Noah when God began to destroy the world, with the 60 and 6 referring to Nebuchadnezzar’s image. (Adv.haer 5.29.2). He also tried to get a name out of the numbers 666 but was unsuccessful.
If you add the numbers corresponding to the Greek name Iesous, you get 888. 8 is the number of new beginnings as the 8th day is the first day of a new week. The term Son of Man appears 88 times in the NT. Jesus was the beginning of all creation, he offers a new beginning and newness of life to all who trust in him, and he is the beginning and the end.
6 is the number of man who was created on the 6th day. Does 666 have anything to do with that? The Antichrist is the imitator of Christ and his antithesis. He is a great deceiver but will pretend to be the true Christ preaching truth to the world. He will try to imitate a new beginning on earth, 888 (new creation), with the power of man, 666 (old creation).
The first seal predicts the Antichrist's arrival on a white horse as he goes forth to conquer the world. 666 represents an intensification of man and he will be "super man" with supernatural abilities. He will cause almost all men and women to worship him and he will represent the apex of the hope of humanity for salvation apart from the true God and his Son, 888. Don't fall for the false promises of science or even miraculous signs creating a wonderful new world before the real Messiah returns. The faithful sheep will recognize the true Shepherd.
It may very well be that the name of the Antichrist adds up to 666. There are likely more mysteries to be unlocked from that number as the end approaches and God grants wisdom.