The number twelve (12) appears in various contexts and carries different meanings across cultures and disciplines:

Mathematics:

• Dozen, gross, and score are units of measurement based on 12.
• 12 is a highly composite number with six divisors: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.
• It is the smallest abundant number, meaning its proper divisors sum to more than itself.

Timekeeping:

• 12 hours in a day (AM and PM systems)
• 12 months in a year
• Zodiac signs are divided into 12 divisions, representing months.

Religion:

• Christianity:
  • Jesus had 12 apostles.
  • Twelve tribes of Israel.
  • Twelve fruits of the Spirit.
• Buddhism:
  • 12 links of dependent origination.
  • Twelve nidanas.
• Hinduism:
  • 12 shaktis (forms of the divine mother).
  • 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred shrines).

Culture:

• Chinese Zodiac: 12 animals represent different years in a 12-year cycle.
• Western Music:
  • Chromatic scale has 12 semitones (half steps).
  • Standard guitar has 12 frets.
• Judaism:
  • 12 tribes of Israel.
  • 12 days of Hanukkah.

Technology:

• 12-volt batteries are used in many devices.
• Hexadecimal number system uses 12 digits (0-9, A-F).
• 12V DC is a standard voltage for automotive electrical systems.

Other:

• Dice: Two standard dice have a total of 12 possible outcomes when rolled.
• Zodiac: 12 astrological signs are used in Western astrology.
• The Odyssey: Greek epic poem by Homer that includes 12 books.
• The Lord of the Rings: Fantasy novel by J.R.R. Tolkien features 12 members of the Fellowship of the Ring.