Divination (from Latin divinare "to foresee, to be supernaturally inspired") is the practice of attempting to gain insight into the future, locate lost objects, or reveal hidden personality traits through magical or spiritual means, usually with the aid of a special technique. Divination appears in most societies throughout human history. The practice is so widespread that it's found among the very first literate cultures. S. G. F. Brandon suggests that divination takes two main forms, which he calls automatic and interrogation of divine intent.¹
Some religions frown on the practice, or have come to frown on it by claiming to progressively "perfect," "complete" or "fulfill" its imperfect religious roots (Christianity being a prime example). But for the most part, divination has been condoned or encouraged by zealous leaders and laypersons alike, eager to know what life has in store for them, and how they should best decide on certain issues.
Historical Context of Divination
Delphi was home to the famous Delphic oracle. In Tibet, state temples were devoted to divination. In ancient China, the I Ching was developed. In Africa, oracles and female mediums were consulted. In the ancient Near East, animal entrails were examined, their form and condition apparently foretelling future events. The ancient Romans were mostly concerned with determining the gods' attitudes towards certain acts. Auspicia were favorable omens (usually the flight of birds) that only senior Roman magistrates could interpret. Prodigia, on the other hand, were evil omens interpreted by the Roman elite, the effects of which could be avoided by civic piety and priestly skill. Augurs involved observing animals, in general, to receive a sign that would help in deciding action in public and private affairs. The Romans, however, were not bound to accept a given augur. They could reject it if they wished, and act on their own accord.²
Historical Context of Divination
Delphi was home to the famous Delphic oracle. In Tibet, state temples were devoted to divination. In ancient China, the I Ching was developed. In Africa, oracles and female mediums were consulted. In the ancient Near East, animal entrails were examined, their form and condition apparently foretelling future events. The ancient Romans were mostly concerned with determining the gods' attitudes towards certain acts. Auspicia were favorable omens (usually the flight of birds) that only senior Roman magistrates could interpret. Prodigia, on the other hand, were evil omens interpreted by the Roman elite, the effects of which could be avoided by civic piety and priestly skill. Augurs involved observing animals, in general, to receive a sign that would help in deciding action in public and private affairs. The Romans, however, were not bound to accept a given augur. They could reject it if they wished, and act on their own accord.²
Divination is found in the Old Testament in several places. It's generally condemned unless directly relating to God, as in Joseph's interpreting dreams while held captive in Egypt (Genesis 40:1-23). In the New Testament, we have the indisputable example of the Three Wise Men following the star that led them to bear gifts to Jesus Christ. Despite this, the Protestant Reformer John Calvin wrote the "Warning Against So-Called Judicial Astrology" in 1549. And Pope Sixtus V officially condemned all forms of divination in 1586.³ Several centuries prior, St. Francis of Assisi apparently opened the Bible at random every morning and read a verse, believing that God directed him to the passage that would set the right tone for his actions through the day. In a similar vein, the Swiss psychiatrist C. G. Jung believed a spiritus rector led him to open books at the right page, turn on the radio at the precisely right moment, and so on, in order for meaningful coincidences (synchronicities) to take place.
Methods and Practices of Divination
Beyond the broad categories of automatic and interrogative divination, various specific methods exist, each with its own techniques and interpretations. Astrology uses the positions of celestial bodies to interpret the past, present, and future, believing that these positions influence human affairs and personality traits. Tarot cards, a deck of cards with symbolic images, are used to gain insights into current situations, potential outcomes, and personal guidance. Readings can be structured in various "spreads," each with its own meaning. Runes, ancient Germanic alphabets inscribed on stones or other objects, are cast or drawn, and their combinations and positions are interpreted. The I Ching, this ancient Chinese system, uses hexagrams, formed by combining six lines (either broken or solid), to provide guidance and insight into situations and potential changes. Palmistry analyzes the lines, shapes, and features of the hand to reveal personality traits, talents, and potential life events. Scrying involves gazing into a reflective surface, such as a mirror, crystal ball, or water, to induce a trance-like state and perceive visions. Dowsing, often using a forked stick or pendulum, is used to locate hidden resources like water, minerals, or even lost objects. Observing animal behavior, such as the flight of birds (as in Roman auspicia) or the actions of other creatures, is used to interpret omens and predict future events.
Cultural and Ethical Considerations
Divination practices are deeply intertwined with the cultural and spiritual beliefs of various societies. In Ancient Egypt, priests played a significant role in interpreting dreams, omens, and celestial events, providing guidance to pharaohs and the population. In Norse Culture, Seeresses (Völur) held a respected position in Norse society, offering prophecies and insights into the future. Many indigenous cultures around the world have their own unique divination practices, often involving communication with spirits or ancestors. The practice of divination raises several ethical questions. The concept of foretelling the future through divination can conflict with the idea of free will and personal agency. Divination can be misused to manipulate or control individuals by exploiting their beliefs and fears. The belief in a divination can influence a person's actions and choices, potentially leading to the predicted outcome, even if it wasn't predetermined.
Psychological and Modern Perspectives
Understanding why people believe in divination involves exploring psychological needs for certainty, control, and meaning. Divination can influence perceptions and behavior through suggestion and the power of belief. This relates to Jung's concept of synchronicity, where meaningful coincidences are seen as evidence of a deeper order. Divination continues to be relevant in contemporary society. Many modern pagan religions incorporate divination practices, such as tarot, runes, and astrology, as tools for spiritual growth and guidance. Mediums and séances are used to communicate with spirits of the deceased, seeking guidance and reassurance. Some individuals use divination techniques for self-reflection, exploring their inner selves, and making personal decisions.
What are your thoughts on divination? Have you had any personal experiences with it? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Methods and Practices of Divination
Beyond the broad categories of automatic and interrogative divination, various specific methods exist, each with its own techniques and interpretations. Astrology uses the positions of celestial bodies to interpret the past, present, and future, believing that these positions influence human affairs and personality traits. Tarot cards, a deck of cards with symbolic images, are used to gain insights into current situations, potential outcomes, and personal guidance. Readings can be structured in various "spreads," each with its own meaning. Runes, ancient Germanic alphabets inscribed on stones or other objects, are cast or drawn, and their combinations and positions are interpreted. The I Ching, this ancient Chinese system, uses hexagrams, formed by combining six lines (either broken or solid), to provide guidance and insight into situations and potential changes. Palmistry analyzes the lines, shapes, and features of the hand to reveal personality traits, talents, and potential life events. Scrying involves gazing into a reflective surface, such as a mirror, crystal ball, or water, to induce a trance-like state and perceive visions. Dowsing, often using a forked stick or pendulum, is used to locate hidden resources like water, minerals, or even lost objects. Observing animal behavior, such as the flight of birds (as in Roman auspicia) or the actions of other creatures, is used to interpret omens and predict future events.
Cultural and Ethical Considerations
Divination practices are deeply intertwined with the cultural and spiritual beliefs of various societies. In Ancient Egypt, priests played a significant role in interpreting dreams, omens, and celestial events, providing guidance to pharaohs and the population. In Norse Culture, Seeresses (Völur) held a respected position in Norse society, offering prophecies and insights into the future. Many indigenous cultures around the world have their own unique divination practices, often involving communication with spirits or ancestors. The practice of divination raises several ethical questions. The concept of foretelling the future through divination can conflict with the idea of free will and personal agency. Divination can be misused to manipulate or control individuals by exploiting their beliefs and fears. The belief in a divination can influence a person's actions and choices, potentially leading to the predicted outcome, even if it wasn't predetermined.
Psychological and Modern Perspectives
Understanding why people believe in divination involves exploring psychological needs for certainty, control, and meaning. Divination can influence perceptions and behavior through suggestion and the power of belief. This relates to Jung's concept of synchronicity, where meaningful coincidences are seen as evidence of a deeper order. Divination continues to be relevant in contemporary society. Many modern pagan religions incorporate divination practices, such as tarot, runes, and astrology, as tools for spiritual growth and guidance. Mediums and séances are used to communicate with spirits of the deceased, seeking guidance and reassurance. Some individuals use divination techniques for self-reflection, exploring their inner selves, and making personal decisions.
What are your thoughts on divination? Have you had any personal experiences with it? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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¹ S. G. F. Brandon (ed.) Dictionary of Comparative Religion, 1971, pp. 115, 243.
¹ S. G. F. Brandon (ed.) Dictionary of Comparative Religion, 1971, pp. 115, 243.
² Ibid.
³ Duby and Perrot (eds.) A History of Women, Vol 3, 2000, p. 455.
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