There are hundreds of techniques for forecasting the future, or divination, some dating back before recorded history. Every known culture includes some form of prophesying and forecasting the future.There are hundreds of books, tapes, and videos available detailing the numerous forms of divination. And, there are many types of tools used for divining ritual and purpose. Here is a brief overview of the “main” forms of divination in use today. Each one links to a page with more information and resources.

CARTOMANCY (Forecasting with cards)

There is a wide variety of cards made especially for divination: Tarot (with hundreds of varieties to choose from), Rune cards or Cartouche (An Egyptian Symbolism System), Karma cards, Medicine cards (using animal symbolism), the Phoenix Deck for past life readings, Star + Gate (an exceptional psychological tool that is excellent for magickal and non-magickal people), and more. Plus ordinary playing cards can also be used for divination.

Divination cards have symbolic drawings or paintings on each card. They are laid out in particular patterns for the diviner to “read.” The reading comes from which cards are in what positions on the layout.

I-CHING

This ancient Chinese oracle most often uses three coins, thrown six times to form a “hexagram” of solid and broken lines. This hexagram has a meaning that is generally looke up in a reference book to answer the diviner’s question. This is best for questions other than those requiring simple”yes” and “no” answers. The I-Ching is for guidance in lifes problems and challenges, and for pointing the way toward solutions.

PALMISTRY

The lines in our hands hold special meaning. They reveal our past, present, and future. Palmists say our hands are the blueprint of our lives. A good palmist can be extremely detailed and accurate about our future, and the future of our loved ones. Palmistry takes into account not only the lines our hands, but the shape of the palms, fingers, knuckles, fleshy mounds, and a lot more.

SCRYING (Crystal Gazing)

The term “scrying” comes from the old English for “to reveal.” Scrying is the ancient art of clairvoyance (clear seeing) by concentrating on a highly reflective surface until visions appear. Generally a crystal ball, a bowl of water (sometimes inked), or a magick mirror are the most common tools for Scrying. Some scryers prefer water-clear crystal balls. Others prefer balls with occlusions (cracks and clouds).

DOWSING

Dowsing is divination using a pendulum, forked stick, or metal rod. It is most often used for answers to “yes” and “no” questions. It is easy to learn and can be done anywhere. Some people even bring their pendulums to the grocery store to choose ripe melons.

NUMEROLOGY

Numerology uses number representations of letters to give character analysis and to predict forthcoming cycles in an individual’s life. Usually the numerology formulas for the diviner’s name and birthdate are used to find the numberology numbers. From these numbers, coming cycles and events can be foretold. The meanings of the numerology numbers are generally looked up in a reference book.

RUNES

Rune divination originates in very ancient times. The type of Runes most commonly used in the western world are Nordic and Celtic. They comprise of stones or ceramic squares inscribed with the magickal alphabet of the Gremanic, Scandinavian, or Norse symbols. Runes are excellent for dream analysis, spells, talismans, as well as general answering general questions about the future and life’s challenges.