Late Roman Army Grade/Rank List under Anastasius

[Nathan Ross]

So how is it clear that an arithmoi is equivalent to a numerus? I want proof, rather than just follow the latest group think.

The two words have the same meaning ('number') - one is Greek, the other is Latin. They are used in the same contexts to refer to the same units. Zonarus's τριβοΰνον άριϑμοΰ is Theophanes's Τριβοΰνος νουμέρου.

Compare also the two inscriptions cited here: νουμέρο̣υ̣ [τῶν] γενν(αιοτάτων) καὶ καθοσιω[μ(ένων)] Κωνσταντινιανῶ[ν] and γεννεοτάτου ἀριθμοῦ τῶν καθοσιωμ(ένων). The 'Κωνσταντινιανῶν' also appear on a Latin inscription from Varna (CLEMoes 44): Moni / de numero / Const(antinianorum) sen(iorum).

This is not 'group think' (whatever that might be!). If you are claiming these words are different in some way, provide evidence.

It can also be a trap wanting to believe it is about a legion.

Wanting to believe doesn't come into it - the words are right there before us (λεγεoσιν / λεγεόνων / λεγεoναςas).

We might rather ask why you are wanting to disbelieve...

The question is why they are missing. Doesn’t that deserve some attention?

It has received some. There are certain ranks - campidoctor, or magister draconum - mentioned on Slabs A and B that are not on Slab C. This indicates that the pay grades on C can cover various ranks or roles within the legion/numerus. This does not alter the numbers of men in each pay grade.

I am also following the premise that a numerus was two thirds in size of a legion vexillation, with a numerus representing specific troop types of the legion, whereas a legion vexillation included all troop types of a legion.

Are you using any evidence to support this idea?