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5 ANIMALS AND THEIR OCCULT SYMBOLISM

5 Animals and their Occult Symbolism

Throughout history, animals have been imbued with mystical significance, serving as symbols, messengers, and spiritual allies in the realms of the occult and esoteric practices. Their connection to the unseen world has inspired countless myths, legends, and magical traditions, weaving them into the fabric of human belief systems. From ancient grimoires to modern pop culture, the symbolic power of animals is undeniable.

In this exploration, we will delve into the occult connections of five everyday animals and uncover their esoteric meanings, tracing their appearances in literature, film, and spiritual traditions.

Number One: The black cat is perhaps the most iconic animal tied to the occult, its reputation steeped in mystery and superstition.

Black cats are known for being elusive, hiding in the shadows of dark alleys, moving with extreme precision, and being stealth hunters. These traits naturally connect them to what’s hidden, what’s unknown, what is secret and what is veiled.

In alchemy, the cat’s dark fur mirrors the darkness of the nigredo, where the impurities of the soul are confronted and released.

In tarot, we can see the black cat on the Queen of Wands, signifying the hidden and intuitive side of the Queen, but also implying that she has a more secretive and dark side to her.

At one time in history, black cats were revered and worshipped. They brought luck and were praised for killing venomous snakes, rodents and birds that damaged crops, and protecting the Pharaoh since at least the First Dynasty of Egypt. The Goddess Bastet was very closely associated with cats, bringing protection to anyone worshipping her.

It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that black cats were believed to be witches’ familiars, aiding their human counterparts in magical endeavors. Black cats were thought to be shapeshifters, moving between worlds unannounced and unseen.

During the witch trials in Europe and America, their association with the devil and witchcraft led to their persecution alongside accused witches. Too many innocent black cats lost their lives.

This symbolism endures today, with black cats often portrayed as either omens of bad luck or harbingers of supernatural events.

In Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “The Black Cat,” the animal serves as a chilling symbol of guilt and darkness, underscoring its association with the uncanny. Additionally, black cats have found their way into popular culture as magical companions, such as Salem in the television series Sabrina the Teenage Witch or Thackery Binx in the film Hocus Pocus. These portrayals continue to highlight their enduring connection to the occult.

Interesting fact – In cats, the gene for a black coat is dominant, which overrides the expression of the tabby gene, resulting in a black coat. This dominance means black is the most common coat color among cats, making black cats more prevalent than any other color. Also, due to genetic mutations, they seem to resist disease more than cats of other colors!

Number Two: Crows and ravens. Firstly, crows are the smaller of the two birds and groups of them are called “murders” – this was given to them in the middle ages for their association with scavenging on dead and decaying matter and with being found around battlefields, cemeteries, gallows and hospitals waiting for any kind of food source.

A group of ravens is called an “unkindness”, or sometimes “conspiracy” of ravens because they have an infamous history of being associated with bad omens, supersitions and other dark foretellings.

Crows and ravens, often conflated, or combined together, in symbolism, are revered for their intelligence and eerie presence. In Norse mythology, the god Odin is accompanied by two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, who represent thought and memory and serve as his eyes and ears across the world.

This connection to divine knowledge and prophecy is echoed in other traditions, where crows and ravens are viewed as psychopomps, or guiders of souls, escorting newly deceased souls to the afterlife. Their striking black feathers and keen intelligence make them natural symbols of mystery, transformation, and the unknown.

In literature, Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “The Raven” immortalizes the bird as a symbol of grief and unrelenting mystery, with its haunting refrain, “Nevermore,” resonating with themes of loss and the supernatural. Similarly, films such as The Crow (1994) emphasize the bird’s association with death and resurrection, reinforcing its esoteric significance.

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, ravens are also given a mystical role, specifically in their flight patterns. At one point, a group of ravens is seen flying against the wind, a phenomenon that serves as an omen and a signal of deeper forces at play. This imagery ties into the ancient belief that crows and ravens could defy natural order to deliver messages from the spiritual realm. In the context of Tolkien’s work, their deliberate flight against the wind symbolizes resistance, determination, and the breaking of ordinary rules, aligning with their archetypal role as messengers and harbingers in both literature and occult traditions.

Interesting fact: It is thought that Charles II was the first to insist there must be at least six Ravens at the Tower of London at all times, elsewise, the Monarchy would fall.

Number 3: Owls have long been linked to wisdom and the occult, their nocturnal nature and ability to see in the dark making them symbols of hidden knowledge. In ancient Greek mythology, the owl was sacred to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and strategy, and was often depicted alongside her. This association persists in modern depictions of the owl as a figure of insight and mystery. In the occult, owls are believed to be messengers between worlds, capable of perceiving truths hidden to others.

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series leverages this symbolism, using owls as magical carriers of communication, further cementing their mystical reputation. Owls’ ghostly presence in the night sky and their eerie calls have also made them enduring figures in folklore, often viewed as omens of death or portents of significant change.

In ancient Roman folklore, owls were believed to foretell death if they hooted while perched on a rooftop. Additionally, placing an owl’s feather near a sleeping person was thought to compel them to speak and reveal secrets.

Interesting fact: In the western world the owl is associated with wisdom, but in Hinduism it is both auspicious and inauspicious. This is because the owl is the vehicle, or “vahana” of Laksmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. There are some people in India that believe by taking away her “vehicle”, in other words, by sacrificing the owl in rituals, the Goddess will be unable to leave the home of that person and will have no choice but to bring them wealth and prosperity the entire year. Some also believe the owl to be Lakshmi’s sister Alaksmi, the Goddess of misery, poverty and strife. In either case, these animals should be held in high reverence, respected and left alone as symbols of wisdom, beauty and awe.

If you’d like more information on how you can help and donate to owls in India, check this link.

Number 4: The snake: The snake is another animal deeply entwined with esoteric practices, embodying duality and transformation and is used frequently in occult contexts. Its shedding of skin has long been interpreted as a symbol of renewal and rebirth, making it a powerful emblem in alchemy and spiritual transformation. It is seen in symbols like the Ouroboros, the snake that bites its own tail, symbolizing eternal cycles like life and death.

In Hinduism, the snake (or serpent) is associated with Kundalini energy, a coiled force that lies dormant at the base of the spine and, when awakened, leads to spiritual enlightenment. Snakes also appear in the Bible as both tempters and symbols of wisdom, as seen in the Garden of Eden story.

It is associated with healing and wisdom and linked to the ancient caduceus, a staff with two snakes, which represents balance, harmony, and the union of opposites.

His symbol is often associated with Hermes (or Mercury) in Hermetic traditions, signifying wisdom and the path to spiritual enlightenment but also representing commerce and negotiation.

In ancient Greek mythology, the snake is linked to Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing, who carries the rod of Asclepius – a classic symbol of medicine.

This duality—of wisdom and danger—makes the snake a complex and multifaceted symbol. Films like The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988) draw on the snake’s association with magic and transformation, while classic texts like Aleister Crowley’s writings often feature serpentine imagery to describe spiritual ascent.

In the Harry Potter series, Nagini is a snake that serves as a Horcrux for Voldemort. The word Nagini, is in fact, the name for a female member of the Naga, a class of semi-divine snakes in Indian religion and mythology.

Interesting fact: Despite being so intertwined with occult practices and used as a powerful symbol since the dawn of man, the fear of snakes (ophiophobia or herpetophobia – fear of reptiles) is one of the most common phobias worldwide. It’s averaged that 1/3 of all adult humans have a fear of snakes.

Number 5: The wolf occupies a prominent place in the esoteric imagination, embodying wildness, instinct, and transformation. In many shamanic traditions, wolves are seen as guides, teaching humans how to reconnect with their primal instincts and the natural world.

This connection is particularly strong in Native American spirituality, where the wolf is often regarded as a symbol of loyalty, protection, courage and wisdom. They were guardians and messengers of the forest as well as teachers and guides. Many tribes had wolf clans, such as the Ojibwe (Oh JIB way): The word for “wolf” in Ojibwe is “ma’iingan” (my-IN-gan ). The Ojibwe tribe, found in the Great Lakes region referred to the wolves as a brother or sister along with the viewpoint that whatever happened to the wolves happened to one of the Ojibwe tribe. Killing a wolf is likened to killing a brother or sister.

Wolves also feature prominently in Greek stories and in Norse, Scandinavian, Icelandic, Teutonic lore as shapeshifters, often linked to werewolves, blending human and animal nature in a single entity.

In Norse mythology, the wolf Fenrir was commanded by Odin to be bound with magical fetters, symbolizing the struggle between primal forces and divine order. This myth reflects the wolf’s association with raw power and the untamed aspects of nature.

This idea of transformation aligns with the wolf’s role in the occult as a totemic figure for personal growth and self-discovery. In literature, Jack London’s The Call of the Wild and its exploration of the untamed spirit mirrors this symbolism. Meanwhile, films like The Company of Wolves (1984) delve into the wolf’s connection to power and transformation, blending fairy tales with esoteric themes.

Interesting fact: Some Arctic wolves are thought to synchronize their howls with the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), letting their haunting calls blend with the celestial display in a phenomenon rarely witnessed by humans.

These five animals—the black cat, crow or raven, owl, snake, and wolf—serve as bridges between the natural and supernatural, their symbolism rooted in ancient traditions and perpetuated through modern culture. Their recurring appearances in stories, myths, and films reflect humanity’s enduring fascination with the mysteries they embody. By exploring their roles in the occult and esoteric practices, we gain a deeper understanding of their magical significance and the ways they continue to captivate our imaginations.

So what is your favorite occult animal on this list? Have you had a previous experience with it? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below and don’t forget to share this post!!!


Video version here:

5 Animals and their Occult Symbolism


Interesting sources, additional info, courses, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06

Mudras to Balance and Harmonize your Chakras and Energy Body https://www.udemy.com/course/mudras-to-balance-and-harmonize-your-energy-body/?referralCode=1A275C6E67E05E8C8130

Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

Check our soundtrack here:
https://lennyblandino.bandcamp.com/track/nivuru-synthetic-waves


Websites:

https://www.alkemystica.com

https://www.lennyblandino.com

https://www.staciebronson.com/


Links and References:

https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/black-cat-facts/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cats_in_ancient_Egypt

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-48308322

https://www.birdzilla.com/learn/what-is-a-group-of-ravens-called/

https://birdfact.com/articles/what-is-a-group-of-crows-called

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychopomp

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Owl_of_Athena

https://michpics.wordpress.com/2008/11/07/the-snowy-owl-on-the-roof/

https://vedicfeed.com/alakshmi/

https://mythologyworldwide.com/the-symbolism-of-snakes-in-mythology-more-than-just-reptiles/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kundalini_yoga

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Serpentandtherainbow.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ophidiophobia#/media/File:The_Punishment_Of_Loki.jpg

https://www.factretriever.com/snake-facts

https://harrypotter.fandom.com/wiki/Horcrux

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagini

https://occult-world.com/werewolves/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Call_of_the_Wild#/media/File:JackLondoncallwild.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Company_of_Wolves#/media/File:Companyofwolvesposter.jpg

https://direwolfproject.com/dire-wolf/dire-wolf-mythology/

https://wildwisconsinwolves.omeka.net/natives

https://ojibwe.lib.umn.edu/main-entry/ma-iingan-na

https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/20-fascinating-wolf-facts-for-kids/

https://www.britannica.com/topic/familiar

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NAKSHATRAS, THE 27 LUNAR MANSIONS IN JYOTISH – INDIAN VEDIC ASTROLOGY (AN INTRODUCTION)

NAKSHATRAS, THE 27 LUNAR MANSIONS IN JYOTISH – INDIAN VEDIC ASTROLOGY

Nakshatras are prominently studied in Jyotish (Indian Vedic Astrology), and have an important occult and practical impact on the overall natal chart interpretation.

Some of the earliest records of stars are those of ancient India in the Vedanga Jyotisha, and the Babylonians.

The Nakṣhatra system predates the influence of Hellenistic astronomy on Vedic tradition.

Different cultures identified different constellations, although Orion and Scorpius were recurrent.

In essence, a nakshatra simply is a constellation.

Hence, the stars are like numbers on a clock, through which the hands of time (The Moon) travels, along the ecliptic, past the specific star fields called nakshatras in a 27-day cycle. This concept is described in connection with the Surya Siddhanta.

The 27 Nakshatras cover 13°20’ of the ecliptic each. Each Nakshatra is also divided into quarters or padas (“steps/parts”) of 3°20’.

The 4 padas multiplied by 27 give 108, indicating all the elements of Vishnu.

There are various systems of enumerating the nakshatras and although there are 27-28 days to a sidereal month, by custom only 27 days are used.

In ancient times, there were 28 nakshatras, but some Indian sages later dropped Abhijit to reduce the number to 27. The Chinese, however, retained all 28 lunar mansions.

Abhijit is the 22nd lunar mansion and the name means “the victorious one”.

According to traditional beliefs, it is not necessarily a separate nakshatra per se, but rather a division within the sidereal Capricorn sign.

Abhijit is also the Sanskrit name for Vega, the brightest star in the constellation of Lyra. Although now is rarely considered by astrologers, it might still be mentioned.

The starting point for the Nakshatras according to the Vedas is “Krittika”, because the Pleiades may have started the year at the time the Vedas were compiled.

More recently the start of the nakshatras is the point on the ecliptic directly opposite to the star Spica, called Chitrā in Sanskrit.

So the starting point is now Ashwinī, a part of the modern constellation of Aries.

Here is a list of the 27 Nakshatras:

1 Ashwini, “physician to the Gods”.

In the constellation of Aries

Lord: Ketu (South lunar node)

Symbol: Horse’s head

Deity: Ashwins, the horse-headed twins who are physicians to the gods.

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Mesha

2 Bharani, “the bearer”.

In the constellation of Aries.

Lord: Shukra (Venus)

Symbol: Yoni, the female organ of reproduction

Deity: Yama, god of death or Dharma

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Mesha

3 Krittika, an old name of the Pleiades, personified as the nurses of Kārttikeya, a son of Shiva.
Lord: Surya (The Sun)

Symbol: Knife or spear

Deity: Agni, god of fire

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Mesha

4 Rohini, “the red one”, a name of Aldebaran. Also known as brāhmī.

Lord: Chandra (The Moon)

Symbol: Cart or chariot, temple, banyan tree

Deity: Brahma or Prajapati, the Creator

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Vrishabha

5 Mrigashira, “the deer’s head”. Also known as āgrahāyaṇī. In the constellation of Orion.

Lord: Mangal (Mars)

Symbol: Deer’s head

Deity: Soma, Chandra, the Moon god

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Vrishabha – Mithuna

6 Ardra, “the storm god”. Betelgeuse.

Lord: Rahu (North lunar node)

Symbol: Teardrop, diamond, a human head

Deity: Rudra, the storm god

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Mithuna

7 Punarvasu, “the two restorers of goods”, also known as yamakau, “the two chariots”. Castor and Pollux.

Lord: Guru (Jupiter)

Symbol: Bow and quiver

Deity: Aditi, mother of the gods

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Mithuna – Karka

8 Pushya, “the nourisher”, also known as sidhya or tiṣya.

In the constellation of Cancer.

Lord: Shani (Saturn)

Symbol: Cow’s udder, lotus, arrow and circle

Deity: Bṛhaspati, priest of the Gods

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Karka

9 Ashlesha, “the embrace”.

In the constellation of Hydra.

Lord: Budh (Mercury)

Symbol: Serpent

Deity: Sarpas or Nagas, deified snakes

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Karka

10 Magha, “the bountiful”. Regulus.

Lord: Ketu (south lunar node)

Symbol: Royal Throne

Deity: Pitris, ‘The Fathers’, family ancestors

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Simha

11 Purva Phalguni, “first reddish one”.

In the constellation of Leo.

Lord: Shukra (Venus)

Symbol: Front legs of bed, hammock, fig tree

Deity: Bhaga, god of marital bliss and prosperity

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Simha

12 Uttara Phalguni, “second reddish one”. Denebola.

Lord: Surya (The Sun)

Symbol: Rear legs of bed, hammock

Deity: Aryaman, god of patronage and favours

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Simha – Kanya

13 Hasta, “the hand”.

In the constellation of Corvus.

Lord: Chandra (The Moon)

Symbol: Hand or fist

Deity: Savitri or Surya, the Sun god

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Kanya

14 Chitra, “the bright one”, a name of Spica.

Lord: Mangal (Mars)

Symbol: Bright jewel or pearl

Deity: Tvastar or Vishvakarman, the celestial architect

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Kanya – Tula

15 Swati, “Su-Ati” meaning “Very good” in Sanskrit, name of Arcturus.

Lord: Rahu (north lunar node)

Symbol: Shoot of a plant, coral

Deity: Vayu, the Wind god

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Tula

16 Vishaka, “forked, having branches”; also known as rādhā, “the gift”.

In the constellation of Libra.

Lord: Guru (Jupiter)

Symbol: Triumphal archway, potter’s wheel

Deity: Indra, chief of the gods; Agni, god of Fire

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Tula – Vrishchika

17 Anuradha, “following rādhā“.

In the constellation of Scorpius.

Lord: Shani (Saturn)

Symbol: Triumphal archway, lotus

Deity: Mitra, one of the Adityas (celestial deities) of friendship and partnership

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Vrishchika

18 Jyeshta, “the eldest, most excellent”.

In the constellation of Scorpius.

Lord: Budh (Mercury)

Symbol: circular amulet, umbrella, earring

Deity: Indra, chief of the gods

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Vrishchika

19 Mula, “the root”.

In the constellation of Scorpius.

Lord: Ketu (south lunar node)

Symbol: Bunch of roots tied together, elephant goad (ankusha)

Deity: Nirrti, Goddess of dissolution and destruction

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Dhanus

20 Purva Ashadha, “first of the āṣāḍhā“, “the invincible one”.

In the constellation of Sagittarius.

Lord: Shukra (Venus)

Symbol: Elephant tusk, fan, winnowing basket

Deity: Apah, god of Water

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Dhanus

21 Uttara Ashadha, “Later invincible”

In the constellation of Sagittarius.

Lord: Surya (The Sun)

Symbol: Elephant tusk, small bed

Deity: Visvedevas (Universal Gods)

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Dhanus – Makara

22 Shravana, “hearing” or “listening”

In the constellation of Aquila.

Lord: Chandra (The Moon)

Symbol: Ear or Three Footprints

Deity: Vishnu (Preserver of the Universe)

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Makara

23 Dhanishta, “most famous”, also Shravishthā “swiftest”.

In the constellation of Delphinus.

Lord: Mangal (Mars)

Symbol: Drum or flute

Deity: Eight vasus (Deities of earthly abundance)

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Makara – Kumbha

24 Shatabhishak, “requiring a hundred physicians”.

In the constellation of Aquarius.

Lord: Rahu (north lunar node)

Symbol: Empty circle, 1,000 flowers or stars

Deity: Varuna, god of cosmic waters, sky and earth

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Kumbha

25 Purva Bhadrapada, “the first of the blessed feet”.

In the constellation of Pegasus.

Lord: Guru (Jupiter)

Symbol: Swords or two front legs of funeral cot, man with two faces

Deity: Ajaikapada, one-footed aspect of Shiva

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Kumbha – Meena

26 Uttara Bhadrapada, “the second of the blessed feet”.

In the constellation of Andromeda.

Lord: Shani (Saturn)

Symbol: Twins, back legs of funeral cot, snake in the water

Deity: Ahirbudhnya, serpent or dragon of the deep

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Meena

27 Revati, “prosperous”.

In the constellation of Pisces.

Lord: Budh (Mercury)

Symbol: Fish or a pair of fish, drum

Deity: Pushan, nourisher, the protective Deity

Indian (sidereal) zodiac: Meena

This was a brief list of the 27 Nakshatras (constellations) in Jyotish, Indian Vedic Astrology.

What do you think of this occult knowledge? Let us know in the comment section below, subscribe for more and share the post!!!


Video version here:

Nakshatras, the 27 Lunar Mansions in Jyotish – Indian Vedic Astrology – An Introduction


Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

Elemental Energy and how to use it, check our course here: https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

Check our soundtrack here:
https://lennyblandino.bandcamp.com/track/nivuru-synthetic-waves

Websites:

https://www.alkemystica.com

https://www.lennyblandino.com

https://www.staciebronson.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1372429986896515


Links and References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nakshatra

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nakshatras

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhijit_(nakshatra)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asterism_(astronomy)

https://www.astroved.com/astropedia/en/nakshatra

Pics:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nakshatra#/media/File:Nakshatras.jpg

https://pixabay.com/photos/lagoon-nebula-messier-8-ngc-6523-11143

https://pixabay.com/photos/milky-way-galaxy-stars-night-sky-4416194

https://pixabay.com/photos/moon-moon-phases-sky-8006703

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30 Forms Of Divination You Did Not Know Existed

30 Forms Of Divination You Did Not Know Existed

Divination and the occult intersect as both explore hidden or mystical aspects of reality to gain insight, understanding, or influence. Divination focuses on seeking knowledge about possible timelines, hidden truths, or guidance through symbolic tools like tarot cards, astrology, rituals or scrying.

These practices often rely on interpreting subtle energies, archetypes, or otherworldly messages.

Divination fits within the occult as a tool or practice used to tap into these unseen realms, align with universal energies, and bridge the gap between the material and outer worlds. Together, they form a framework for exploring the mysteries of existence and personal transformation.

The Greek word “manteia”, meaning “prophecy/fortune-telling”, will be recurrent in the video for the suffix “mancy”.

Here is a list of 30 Forms of Divination you probably did not know existed:

Abacomancy, also known as Amathomancy, from the Greek “amathos”, “sand”.

A form of divination based on the interpretation of the patterns in dust, dirt, silt, sand or the ashes of the recently deceased. Reading the patterns is believed to give some insight into the future. Readers drop the dirt, sand, or ashes on a flat surface and start looking for a pattern that may represent symbols or pictures. They interpret these symbols and pictures to what is going to happen in the future. Some look for certain symbols that are seen over and over.

Acultomancy from Latin “acūleus”, meaning “needle”, is a form of divination that uses needles for readings.

Readers use 7 or up to 21 needles in a bowl with water in it.

Needles may also be dropped onto a flat surface that has been coated with powder or flour. Readers then look for the designs that the needles make in the substance.

Some of the main designs are lines. They may be broken, parallel, vertical, or horizontal in some fashion. The broken line may mean traveling or heading on a new journey. The parallel lines may mean money in the future, either given or taken away. The vertical lines are meant as guided roads to take. The horizontal lines may mean what the fate will be.

Aeromancy from Greek “aḗr”, “air”, is a form of divination that is conducted by interpreting atmospheric conditions.

Aeromancy uses cloud formations, wind currents and cosmological events such as comets, to attempt to divine the past, present, or future. There are sub-types of this practice which are as follows: austromancy (wind divination), ceraunoscopy (observing thunder and lightning), chaomancy (aerial vision), meteormancy (observing meteors and shooting stars), and nephomancy (cloud divination).

Variations on the concept have been used throughout history and the practice is thought to have been used by the ancient Babylonian priests.

The ancient Etruscans produced divination of the future based upon the omens that were supposedly displayed by thunder or lightning that occurred on particular days of the year, or in particular places.

Divination by clouds was condemned by Moses in Deuteronomy in the Hebrew Bible.

In Renaissance magic, aeromancy was classified as one of the seven “forbidden arts”, along with necromancy, geomancy, hydromancy, pyromancy, chiromancy and spatulamancy.

Aichmomancy, from Greek “aikhmē”, “spearhead”, is a form of divination somewhat similar to acultomancy in that it uses sharp pointed objects to show patterns to read.

Aichmomancy readers use pins, knives, forks, nails and handmade pieces of wood sharpened to a point. Readers drop sharp pointed objects onto a flat surface, find patterns and interpret them.

In the most ancient form of this divination a spearhead was spun in the sand. Several centuries later, during the Early Middle Ages, divination with pins became popular in Europe.

Readers used 7 pins and a table covered with a cloth. Pins were thrown over the table, and the patterns were read and interpreted.

Ailuromancy from Greek aílouros, ‘cat’, also known as felidomancy, is a form of theriomancy. It is divination using cats’ movements or jumps, to predict future events, especially the weather.

For example, if the cat turns its tail to a fire or any heat source, it foretells a possible change in weather, particularly the coming of heavy rain or frost.

Another example is if a cat curls up with its forehead touching the ground, it indicates that storms may happen in the near future.

Alectryomancy comes from the Greek alectryon, “rooster”.

It is a form of divination in which the diviner observes a bird, several birds, or most preferably a white rooster or cockerel pecking at grain (such as wheat) that the diviner has scattered on the ground. The observer may place grain in the shape of letters and thus discern a revelation by noting which letters the birds peck at, or the diviner may just interpret the pattern left by the birds’ pecking in randomly scattered grain.

In another version, the observer puts the bird in the center of a circle, around the perimeter of which is marked the alphabet, with a piece of grain at each letter. For each grain the bird pecks, the observer writes down the letter which that grain represents. The observer also replaces each grain as the bird eats it, so that letters may be repeated. The sequence of letters recorded will presumably contain a message.

Alomancy is an ancient form of divination. From ancient Greek “hals”, “salt”. The diviner casts salt crystals into the air and interprets the patterns as it falls to the ground or travels through the air. The diviner can also interpret patterns that are formed from the residue of a salt solution as it evaporates in a bowl.

One form of alomancy consists of the casting of salt into a fire, which is considered a type of pyromancy.

Alphitomancy from Greek alphiton, ‘barley’, is a form of divination involving barley cakes or loaves of barley bread.

When someone in a group was suspected of a crime, the members of the group would be fed barley cakes or slices of barley bread. Supposedly, the guilty party would get indigestion, while all others would feel well.

Alveromancy is a form of divination that involves interpreting the sounds or patterns made by objects, such as stones, pebbles, or metal, when they are thrown or struck together. It derives from the Greek root “alvero”,referring to sound or noise.

Objects such as pebbles, stones, or metals are cast, struck, or manipulated to produce sounds. The practitioner listens carefully to the sounds, their tone, pitch, rhythm, or the way they resonate. Interpretations are made based on the nature of the sound, its intensity, and any patterns perceived, often with a focus on spiritual or symbolic messages.

The type of sound and its clarity were believed to convey messages from the divine or supernatural realms.

Historically, this method was linked to shamanistic or ritualistic practices, as sound was considered a medium to connect with higher forces.

Anachitis, meaning “stone of necessity” is a stone used to call up spirits from water.

The stone was supposedly used in classical antiquity by the Magi for divination. Its use had fallen out of favor by the Middle Ages.

Anthomancy is a form of divination that involves interpreting the meanings and messages of flowers. It derives from the Greek word “anthos” (flower). This practice was historically used to seek guidance, predict outcomes, or answer specific questions.

Specific flowers are chosen for their symbolic meanings, such as roses for love, lilies for purity, or daisies for innocence.

The shape, color, scent, and arrangement of the flowers are examined. Falling petals or their patterns are often analyzed.

The answers are interpreted based on traditional meanings associated with each flower or their behavior during the ritual.

This practice was popular in ancient Greece and Rome, where flowers were seen as symbols of divine messages.

Anthropomancy from Greek “anthropos”, “man”, is a method of divination using the entrails of dead or dying men or women through sacrifice. As much as it may sound unbelievable to us today, records of this practice are found in Ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, Africa and South America.

Apantomancy is a form of divination using articles at hand or things that present themselves by chance. The diviner works him/herself into a state of trance until an object or event is perceived and a divination worked out. This form of divination was used in ancient Rome by the augurs.

A branch of apantomancy places special significance on chance meetings of animals. The superstition regarding black cats crossing your path comes from this form of divination.

Aspidomancy from the Greek word “aspis”, meaning “shield”, is a form of divination based on the interpretation of patterns on a shield.

Reading the patterns is believed to give some insight into events. Readers study the shield, looking for a pattern that may represent symbols or pictures. They interpret these symbols and pictures as clues as to what is going to happen in the future.

Aspidomancy can also refer to the method of divination of sitting on a shield and reciting incantations to summon an entity or enter a trance, in order to gain knowledge.

Astragalomancy, also known as cubomancy, is a form of divination that uses dice, specially marked with letters or numbers.

Historically, as with dice games, the “dice” were usually knuckle bones or other small bones of quadrupeds. Marked astragali (talus bones) of sheep and goats are common at Mediterranean and Near Eastern archaeological sites, particularly at funeral and religious locations.

Another branch compared to astragalomancy is pessomancy, a type of divination which uses colored or marked pebbles rather than numbered dice. These pebbles are either thrown out of a bag after shuffling or drawn from the bag at random.

The interpretation of the colors or symbols relate to issues such as health, communication, success and travel.

Axinomancy is an obscure method of divination using an axe, hatchet, or (rarely) a saw. Most methods involve throwing an axe into the ground or swinging it into a tree, and interpreting the direction of the handle or the quivering of the blade.

Another interesting method is heating an axe-head in a fire until it glows, and then interpreting the colors and shapes.

Some sources claim that Psalm 74 in the Bible refers to the use of axinomancy to predict the fall of Jerusalem, although in the text the reference to upright axes is not specifically for divination.

Belomancy is the ancient art of divination by use of arrows. The word is built upon Ancient Greek belos, ’arrow, dart’. Belomancy was practiced by Babylonians, Greeks, Arabs and Scythians.

The arrows were typically marked with occult symbols. Different possible answers to a given question were written and tied to each arrow. For example, 3 arrows would be marked with the phrases, God orders it to me, God forbids it to me, and the third would be blank. The arrow that flew the furthest indicated the answer.

Bibliomancy is the use of books in divination. The use of sacred books (especially specific words and verses) for “magical medicine”, for removing negative entities or for divination is widespread in many parts of the world.

A book that is believed to hold the truth is picked.

It is balanced on its spine and allowed to fall open.

A passage is picked, with the eyes closed.

Among Christians, the Bible is most commonly used, in Islamic cultures the Quran. In the Middle Ages in Europe the use of Virgil’s Aeneid was common. In the classical world the Iliad and Odyssey were used.

Cartomancy, maybe the most famous of this list, is fortune-telling or divination using a deck of cards. It appeared soon after playing cards were introduced into Europe in the 14th century. Practitioners of cartomancy are generally known as cartomancers, card readers, or simply readers.

Cartomancy using standard playing cards was the most popular form of providing fortune-telling card readings in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.

In English-speaking countries, the most common form is tarot card reading.

In the religion of ancient Rome, a haruspex was a person trained to practise a form of divination called Haruspicy, the inspection of the entrails of sacrificed animals, especially the livers of sheep and poultry. Various ancient cultures of the Near East, such as the Babylonians, also read omens with this method.

The Roman concept is directly derived from Etruscan religion, as one of the three branches of the Disciplina Etrusca.

Lampadomancy is a form of divination using an oil lamp or a torch flame.

The diviner reads presages from the movements of the flame. In yet another method, the diviner uses the lamp as a means of “attracting spirits to the flames”, in the hope of consulting them regarding future events.

Lampadomancy was a popular method of divination in ancient Egypt, where diviners would perform it at midday in a darkened room illuminated by a single lamp filled with oasis oil.

Literomancy, from the Latin litero-, ‘letter’ is a form of fortune-telling based on written words, or, in the case of Chinese, characters.

When practicing literomancy, the client puts up a subject, be it a single character or a name. The literomancer then analyzes the subject along with other information that the client supplies to arrive at a divination.

Some literomancers can read the curves and lines of a signature just as a professional handwriting analyst might, but uses instinct and divination techniques rather than applied analysis skills.

Lithomancy is a form of divination by which the future is told using stones or the reflected light from the stones. The practice is most popular in the British Isles.

In one popular method, 13 stones are tossed onto a board and a prediction made based on the pattern in which they fall.

In other methods, the stones are representative of various concepts: fortune, magic, love, news, home life and the astrological planets of Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, the Sun, and the Moon.

Metoposcopy is a form of divination in which the diviner predicts personality, character and destiny based on the pattern of lines on the subject’s forehead. It was in use in the Classical Era and was widespread in the Middle Ages, reaching its zenith in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Metoposcopy was developed by the 16th century Italian polymath Girolamo Cardano, considered to be one of the foremost mathematicians of the Renaissance.

Molybdomancy from Ancient Greek molybdos, ‘lead’, is a technique of divination using molten metal. Typically, molten lead or tin is dropped into water.

The resulting shape is either directly interpreted as an omen for the future, or is rotated over a candlelight to create shadows, whose shapes are then interpreted. For example, a bubbly surface signifying money, a fragile or broken shape misfortune. The shape of the lead before melting can refer to a specific area of one’s life. For example, it can be made resembling a ship for traveling, keys for career advancement and so on.

It can be found as a tradition in various cultures, including Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Germany, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Turkey.

Necromancy is the practice of communication with the dead by summoning their spirits as apparitions or visions for the purpose of divination, to foretell future events and discover hidden knowledge.

Necromancy was prevalent throughout antiquity with records of this practice in ancient Egypt, Babylonia, Greece, Etruria, Rome and China.

Rituals could be quite elaborate, involving magic circles, wands, talismans, and incantations. The necromancer might also surround himself with morbid aspects of death, which often included wearing the clothing of the deceased and consuming foods that symbolized lifelessness and decay such as unleavened black bread and unfermented grape juice.


Oneiromancy,
from Greek “oneiros”, “dream”, is a form of divination based upon dreams. Plants may also be used to produce or enhance dream-like states of consciousness. Occasionally, the dreamer feels as if they are transported to another time or place, and this is offered as evidence they are in fact providing divine information upon their return.

Throughout Mesopotamian history, dreams were always held to be extremely important for divination and Kings paid close attention to them.

In ancient Egypt as far back as 2000 BCE, they wrote down dreams on papyrus. People with vivid and significant dreams were thought to be blessed and were considered special. Ancient Egyptians believed that dreams were like oracles, bringing messages from the Gods.

Dreams occur throughout the Bible as omens or messages from God.

Onychomancy, from Greek onychos, is an ancient form of divination using fingernails as a “crystal ball” or “scrying mirror” and is considered a subdivision of palmistry.

It consists of gazing at fingernails in bright sunlight and then interpreting the “symbols” that appear on them.

The symbols are read in relation to chakra points, reflexology points or colors associated with planets.

Rhabdomancy is a divination technique which involves the use of a rod, wand, staff, stick, arrow, or the like.

One method of rhabdomancy was setting a number of staffs on the ground and observing where they fell, to divine the direction one should travel, or to find answers to certain questions.

Another type of rhabdomancy is dowsing using a wooden stick, usually forked.

Scrying, also referred to as “seeing” or “peeping,” is a practice rooted in divination and fortune-telling. It involves gazing into an object, hoping to receive significant messages or visions that could offer personal guidance, prophecy, revelation, or inspiration.

Unlike augury, which interprets observable events, or divination, which follows standardized rituals, Scrying’s impressions arise within the medium itself.

Methods of scrying often include self-induced trances using crystal balls, mirrors or even modern technology like smartphones.

What do you think of these 30 Forms of Divination? Did you experience them? Know of any others? Let us know in the comment section, subscribe for more and share the post!!!


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Links and References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_occult_terms

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abacomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abracadabra

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acultomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aeromancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aichmomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ailuromancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alectryomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alphitomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anachitis

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthropomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apantomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspidomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Axinomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibliomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haruspex

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lampadomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metoposcopy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molybdomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necromancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oneiromancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onychomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhabdomancy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrying

Pics:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abracadabra#/media/File:Cluny_-_Mero_-_Croix-Talisman_motifs_magiques_bas%C3%A9_sur_Abracadabra_-_VIe-VII_si%C3%A8cle-_Ag_niell%C3%A9.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abracadabra#/media/File:Abracadabra_triangle_(cropped).jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adept#/media/File:The_Immortal_Soul_of_the_Taoist_Adept.PNG

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aeromancy#/media/File:Shelfcloud.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ailuromancy#/media/File:Calico_Cat_Asleep.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alectryomancy#/media/File:Konstantin_Makovsky_-_Christmastide_Divination.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alomancy#/media/File:SeaSalt.JPG

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bronze_votive_shield.JPG

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalomancy#/media/File:Legio_XXI_Rapax_-_Astragal_-_Sechsel%C3%A4uten_2011_-_Lindenhof_2011-04-10_15-41-20.JPG

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sad_Axe.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rembrandt%27s_Mother_-_Rembrandt_Harmenszoon_van_Rijn.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartomancy#/media/File:Michail_Alexandrowitsch_Wrubel_001.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haruspex#/media/File:Votive_Relief_of_Haruspex_Caius_Fulvius_Salvis.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lampadomancy#/media/File:BrassOliveOilLamp2.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literomancy#/media/File:Image_taken_from_page_31_of_’China-_a_history_of_the_laws,_manners,_and_customs_of_the_people._…_Edited_by_W._G._Gregor._With_…_illustrations’_(11268580305).jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stones_Porto_DSCF0572.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Face_and_text,_%22Metoposcopia%22,_S._Fuchs,_1615_Wellcome_L0013998.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molybdomancy#/media/File:Bleigiessen-Vorgang.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necromancy#/media/File:Endor.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bible_primer,_Old_Testament,_for_use_in_the_primary_department_of_Sunday_schools_(1919)_(14801931183).jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onychomancy#/media/File:Onychomancy_finger_chart.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrow#/media/File:Two_arrows.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrying#/media/File:John_William_Waterhouse_-_The_Crystal_Ball.JPG

https://pixabay.com/photos/beach-sand-dunes-landscape-7153932

https://pixabay.com/photos/sewing-thimble-pins-safety-pins-661992

https://pixabay.com/photos/cutlery-forks-knives-restaurant-2464197

https://pixabay.com/photos/cat-kitten-feline-pussy-cloud-5098930

https://pixabay.com/photos/rooster-hens-chickens-birds-7056152

https://pixabay.com/photos/bread-loaf-artisan-artisan-bread-1510155

https://pixabay.com/photos/balls-metal-iron-texture-grooves-2165742

https://pixabay.com/photos/throw-stone-colorful-night-summer-6781567

https://pixabay.com/photos/light-ghi-lamp-dark-bokeh-night-1097599

https://pixabay.com/photos/cat-black-cat-outdoors-sit-sitting-2939726

https://pixabay.com/photos/sheep-meadow-white-farm-5352474

https://pixabay.com/photos/forest-stick-pile-wood-twigs-4882105

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Cycles of Time in Vedic Cosmology – The 4 Yugas – Part 1

Cycles of Time in Vedic Cosmology - The 4 Yugas - Part 1

Hindu Vedic texts describe four Yugas (world ages) in a Yuga Cycle—Krita (Satya) Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dwapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga—where, starting in order from the first age, each Yuga’s length decreases by one-fourth (25%), giving proportions of 4:3:2:1

As a Yuga Cycle progresses through the four Yugas, each Yuga’s length and humanity’s general moral and physical state within each Yuga decrease by one-fourth.

Each Yuga is characterized by varying degrees of virtue and vice, wisdom and ignorance, and dharma (righteousness) and adharma (unrighteousness).

1. Satya Yuga (The Age of Truth)

Satya Yuga, also known as the Golden Age or the Age of Truth, is the first and most revered of the Yugas. It is characterized by a time of truth, virtue, and divine presence. In this era, humanity is said to live in harmony with the divine, and righteousness prevails. The divine essence is fully manifest, and people are endowed with immense wisdom and spiritual purity. The moral and ethical standards are at their highest, and there is no need for religious practices or rituals since truth and righteousness are innate.

In this age, the human lifespan is said to be the longest, and there is no suffering or conflict. The concept of Dharma is fully realized, and the divine is perceived directly by all. The natural world is in its prime, reflecting the purity and perfection of this age.

2. Treta Yuga (The Age of Treta)

Following Satya Yuga is Treta Yuga, often referred to as the Silver Age. This period marks a gradual decline in virtue and an increase in the need for religious practices and rituals to maintain Dharma. Although righteousness still prevails, it is somewhat diminished compared to the previous age. In Treta Yuga, humanity begins to experience the emergence of moral and spiritual decay.

In this era, the lifespan of human beings decreases, and the divine presence becomes less direct. The need for sacrifices, rituals, and religious observances arises to uphold Dharma and compensate for the growing imperfections. The epic Ramayana is set in Treta Yuga, reflecting the narrative of divine intervention and the heroic struggle to restore righteousness.

3. Dwapara Yuga (The Age of Dwapara)

Dwapara Yuga, or the Bronze Age, represents a further decline in the moral and spiritual quality of humanity. During this age, virtue and righteousness are significantly diminished, and the human experience becomes more fraught with conflict and suffering. Dharma and adharma are in constant flux, and the balance between them becomes more precarious.

In Dwapara Yuga, the lifespan of human beings continues to decrease, and religious practices become more complex and ritualistic. The Mahabharata, another epic of the Vedic tradition, is set in this age, depicting the moral and ethical challenges faced by individuals and societies. The epic highlights the role of divine intervention and the consequences of human actions in the struggle to restore righteousness.

4. Kali Yuga (The Age of Darkness)

The final Yuga is Kali Yuga, often referred to as the Age of Darkness or the Iron Age. This era is characterized by the greatest decline in virtue and the predominance of adharma. In Kali Yuga, humanity experiences the greatest suffering, ignorance, and moral corruption. The divine presence is least apparent, and the human lifespan is the shortest.

The principles of Dharma are greatly obscured, and the world is marked by conflict, deceit, and chaos. Religious practices become increasingly necessary as a means to combat the pervasive ignorance and evil. Kali Yuga is believed to be the current age, and according to tradition, it will eventually lead to the end of the cosmic cycle, after which a new cycle of Satya Yuga will begin.

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuga_cycle

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Sri_Yukteswar_Giri

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satya_Yuga

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Yuga

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvapara_Yuga

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treta_Yuga

http://veda.wikidot.com/vedic-time-system#toc8

https://www.historicmysteries.com/myths-legends/kali-yuga/36125/

https://www.bibhudevmisra.com/2012/07/end-of-kali-yuga-in-2025-unraveling.html?m=0

https://www.dwapara-yuga.org

https://maypoleofwisdom.com/law-of-the-4-ages/

https://twospiritsonesoul.com/blog/are-we-living-in-the-kali-yuga

PICS:

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Four_Yugas_of_Hindu_Eschatology.svg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yugas.png

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yuga_Cycle.png

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:4_yugas.PNG

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yugas-Ages-based-on-Sri-Yukteswar_af.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kalki_(centre).jpg

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-hindu-style-goddess-8670920

The four ages of Hindu cosmology (Peter Hermes Furian / Adobe Stock)

https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/14lupco/which_of_the_yuga_cycle_model_between_these_two/

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-suffering-hell-dante-8425585

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Motion_of_Sun,_Earth_and_Moon_around_the_Milky_Way.jpg

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The Secret Meanings of Cups and Chalices in Esoteric Arts and Tarot

The Secret Meanings of Cups and Chalices in Esoteric Arts and Tarot

In esoteric traditions, symbols hold a potent significance, often acting as keys to deeper truths. Among these, the image of the cup or chalice resonates with profound mystical and spiritual meaning. Chalice comes from Latin calix ‘mug’, borrowed from Ancient Greek κύλιξ (kylix) ‘cup’ or goblet, meaning a footed cup intended to hold a drink.

In this essay we will briefly explore the symbolism of cups and chalices within three specific domains: Tarot, alchemy, and magic to further gain insight into the deeper currents of meaning that flow through these esoteric arts.

Cups in Tarot

The suit of Cups is one of the four suits in the Minor Arcana, alongside Wands, Swords, and Pentacles. The Cups in Tarot hold deep esoteric and occult significance, extending beyond their surface-level interpretations and are rich with symbolic meaning.

They are traditionally associated with the element of water, which in many mystical and spiritual traditions, represents the emotions, the unconscious or subconscious, intuition, the mystical, the hidden or occult, dreams, memories and the flow of life.

Water is a receptive element, absorbing and reflecting the environment around it, much like the way emotions reflect our inner and outer experiences.

Water is also linked to the concept of the feminine principle or the divine feminine in esoteric traditions. This principle is about receptivity, nurturing, and the ability to give life. In the context of the Tarot, the Cups represent these qualities within the individual and their experiences, emphasizing themes of emotional wisdom, nurturing relationships, and the intuitive understanding of oneself and others.

Water reaches into the depth of the unknown and into mystical realms. It can be unpredictable and is ever changing. It is unique in this way in that it can take a solid, liquid or gaseous form. Therefore emotions can fluctuate. Mood swings can happen with combinations of various cards in the tarot. A queen of cups with a 2 of pentacles could mean that someone’s mood is literally up and down.

In astrology, the water signs—Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces are easily found in the Page, Knight, Queen or King of Cups. On a high note, they are often associated with sensitivity, depth of feeling, intuition, compassion, empathy, kindness, healing, purification and psychic abilities, but on a lower note, they can also indicate deception, illusions, hidden truths, darkness, confusion, elusiveness and secrets.

These are qualities that resonate with the meanings of the Cups in Tarot. The fluidity of water mirrors the shifting nature of emotions and the depths of the unconscious mind.

Look at the King of Cups. What do you see here? Someone who has mastered his emotions? Is he a compassionate leader who can empathize with others? Or Someone that is repressing emotions? Is he hiding some kind of emotion? Would you trust him? What is he hiding underneath his throne of memory and emotion? and for how long can he keep those secret thoughts hidden in the depths?

Each card in the suit of Cups invites the reader to explore their emotional and spiritual life. The cups serve as vessels for experiences and feelings, reminding us that while emotions can be fleeting, the lessons they bring can fill the soul and spirit.

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Chalices in Alchemy

Alchemy, an ancient practice that predates modern chemistry, is rich with symbols and metaphors, often reflecting the transformation of the human soul. Chalices in alchemy are not merely physical vessels but are seen as symbols of containment, transformation, and spiritual attainment.

One of the most significant symbols in alchemy is the Holy Grail, often depicted as a chalice. The Grail is considered the ultimate goal of the alchemical quest, representing the Philosopher’s Stone—a metaphor for the completion of the Great Work and the attainment of immortality. The Grail is a vessel that contains the elixir of life, the quintessence of spiritual knowledge.

It is a symbol of purity and divine grace, a sacred object that can transform the base elements (both literal and metaphorical) into pure gold or spiritual enlightenment.

In alchemical texts, the chalice is often associated with the albedo stage of the Magnum Opus, or the Great Work. Albedo, or “whitening,” follows the nigredo, or “blackening” stage of putrefaction and darkness. It represents purification, the washing away of impurities, and the emergence of the pure spirit. The chalice, in this context, is the vessel that holds the purified substance, whether it be physical gold or spiritual wisdom. It symbolizes the alchemist’s soul, now cleansed and ready to receive divine illumination.

Let’s revisit the Tarot for a moment to see how these esoteric arts overlap – In Tarot, there is the Five of Cups: The Five of Cups often represents loss, grief, and the process of emotional purification. This card encourages the seeker to confront their shadow, to mourn the past, and to ultimately find a path to emotional healing and spiritual renewal. Esoterically, it reflects the alchemical stage of nigredo, or blackening, where the individual faces the darkness within.

In alchemical symbolism, An example of a chalice is the Chalice of Saint John. This image often shows a serpent emerging from a cup, a symbol of transformation and wisdom. The serpent, a creature that sheds its skin, represents renewal and the cyclical nature of life.

The cup, holding the serpent, signifies the containment and harnessing of this transformative energy. It is a reminder that true wisdom and enlightenment come from within, and the journey towards it involves a process of inner purification and transformation.

Chalices in Magic and Ritual

In magical traditions, chalices are often used in rituals and ceremonies. They serve as a focal point for spiritual energy and as a tool for invoking divine forces. The chalice is a symbol of the receptive, feminine aspect of the divine, often associated with the Goddess or the element of water. It represents the womb, the source of life and creation, and is used to contain sacred substances, such as wine or water, during rituals.

In Wiccan and other pagan traditions, the chalice is an essential element on the altar. It is used to hold wine, which symbolizes the blood of the Goddess, or water, representing the primordial waters of creation.

During rituals, the chalice is often consecrated and charged with magical intent.

For example, in the Wiccan ritual known as the Great Rite, when performed “in token” the Priestess holds the chalice, filled with drink and symbolic of the womb, and invokes the spirit of the Goddess. Her partner holds an athame, symbolic of the phallus and invokes the spirit of the God. After invocations are finished and the ceremonial dipping of the blade into the liquid is finished, the chalice is then blessed and shared with the participants, or coven members as a symbol of the unity between the divine masculine and divine feminine.

The chalice also plays a role in the ritual of the Eucharist in Christian traditions, where it holds wine symbolizing the blood of Christ. This ritual can be seen as a form of magical practice, where the chalice becomes a vessel for divine grace and the transformation of the mundane into the sacred.

The act of drinking from the chalice symbolizes the internalization of the divine and the acceptance of spiritual nourishment.

In ceremonial magic, chalices are often used in the invocation of spirits or deities. The magician may use a chalice to hold offerings or libations, which are then consecrated and offered to the invoked entities. The chalice serves as a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds, a receptacle for spiritual energies. For example, in the ritual of the Holy Grail, practitioners may use a chalice to symbolize their quest for spiritual enlightenment and the divine knowledge contained within it.

Real life Examples

We have already briefly discussed the esoteric meaning of cups and chalices in the tarot, alchemy and magic.

But many legendary chalices have captured the imagination and reverence of people throughout history, often entwined with legend, religious significance, cultural importance and mystery. Let’s look at some real life examples and famous legendary chalices that still hold allure today.

The Holy Grail

Arguably the most famous chalice in Western history, the Holy Grail is said to be the cup used by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper and later by Joseph of Arimathea to collect Christ’s blood during the Crucifixion.

The Holy Grail has been a central element in Christian legend, particularly in Arthurian tales, where it is depicted as a mysterious and powerful object sought by knights, most notably Sir Galahad, Sir Percival, and Sir Lancelot. The Grail symbolizes divine grace, spiritual enlightenment, and the ultimate quest for purity and immortality.

The Antioch Chalice

The Antioch Chalice, once believed by some to be the Holy Grail, is a silver cup that dates back to the early Byzantine era (5th-6th century AD). It was discovered near Antioch, modern-day Turkey, and is ornately decorated with figures that some scholars initially interpreted as the Apostles. However, later research suggests that it may have been used as an early Christian liturgical object rather than the actual cup from the Last Supper.

The Chalice of Doña Urraca

The Chalice of Doña Urraca, a richly decorated goblet from the 11th century, is kept in the Basilica of San Isidoro in León, Spain. The chalice is made of agate and adorned with gold and jewels. It is named after Doña Urraca of Zamora, an 11th-century Spanish princess who donated it to the church. Recent claims have suggested that this chalice might be linked to the legends of the Holy Grail, though these assertions are debated among historians and scholars.

The Ardagh Chalice

The Ardagh (arda) Chalice is a remarkable piece of early medieval Irish metalwork, dating back to the 8th century. It was discovered in 1868 near the village of Ardagh, County Limerick, Ireland. The chalice is made of silver with gold, bronze, brass, and lead embellishments and is decorated with intricate Celtic patterns. It is believed to have been used for liturgical purposes, specifically for dispensing wine during the Eucharist. The Ardagh Chalice is an important artifact in Irish cultural history and is currently housed in the National Museum of Ireland.

The Nanteos Cup

The Nanteos Cup is a wooden chalice that has been associated with legends of the Holy Grail. The cup gets its name from Nanteos Mansion in Wales, where it was kept for many years. The cup is relatively plain and has suffered considerable wear and damage over the centuries. Despite its humble appearance, various legends claim that it possesses healing powers. The cup’s history and authenticity as a relic of significant Christian history are uncertain, but it remains a fascinating piece of folklore.

The Valencia Chalice

The Valencia Chalice, also known as the Holy Chalice of Valencia, is housed in the Valencia Cathedral in Spain. It consists of a polished agate cup, believed to date from the 1st century BC or AD, with a base added later. Some Christian traditions hold that this chalice was used by Jesus at the Last Supper, making it a contender for the title of the Holy Grail. While definitive proof of its authenticity is lacking, the chalice is an object of veneration and is used by the Pope during special occasions.

The Chalice of Saint Remigius

The Chalice of Saint Remigius is a relic kept in the Reims Cathedral, France. It is said to have been used by Saint Remigius, the Bishop of Reims, during the baptism of Clovis I, the first King of the Franks, around 496 AD. This baptism is a significant event in the history of France as it marked the beginning of the Christianization of the Frankish Kingdom. The chalice is made of silver and is regarded as a precious historical and religious artifact.

These chalices are not only valuable as historical and religious artifacts but also as symbols of faith, devotion, and the quest for spiritual understanding. They continue to inspire stories, legends, and scholarly inquiry, reflecting the enduring human fascination with sacred objects and their mysteries.

In conclusion, the symbolism of cups and chalices in esoteric arts is rich and multifaceted. In Tarot, they represent emotional and spiritual experiences, acting as vessels for the soul’s journey. In alchemy, chalices symbolize the containment and transformation of spiritual essence, with the Holy Grail representing the ultimate quest for enlightenment. In magical traditions, chalices are tools for ritual and ceremony, symbolizing the feminine divine and the receptivity of spiritual energy. Across these traditions, the cup or chalice serves as a powerful symbol of the human quest for understanding, transformation, and union with the divine.

What is your experience with cups, or chalices? Do you have a favourite one you use for special drinks? Rituals? Or a favourite cups card in Tarot? Post your comments below and share the post!!!


Video version here:

The Secret Meanings of Cups and Chalices in Esoteric Arts and Tarot


Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suit_of_cups

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Grail

https://symbolopedia.com/chalice-symbolism-meaning

https://theculturetrip.com/europe/spain/articles/7-things-you-didnt-know-about-the-holy-chalice-of-valencia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanteos_Cup

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reims_Cathedral

https://clasmerdin.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-chalice-of-dona-urraca-is-this-holy.html

Dona Urraca: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qb-oIkbu3pE&t

Ardagh Chalice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCJEPLSNXNM

PICS:

https://pixabay.com/videos/fantasy-magic-book-mystic-magic-69642

https://pixabay.com/videos/lake-water-sunbeams-glitter-176798

https://www.pexels.com/video/father-at-a-church-6267388

https://www.pexels.com/video/hand-table-home-wine-4038356

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Paintings_of_Saint_John_the_Evangelist_with_the_poisoned_chalice#/media/File:Memling_St_John_and_Veronica_Diptych_reverse_right.jpg