By Tammy Thomas
Since the beginning of time, divination has been a way for people to glimpse into the future for the purpose of gathering information by mystical means. Whether interpreting signs in nature and dreams or using any object which allows for interpretation, divinatory practice has captivated our attention by harnessing the potential of foresight.
Divining has been a part of every historical period and culture, and is one of the primary practices used by shamans, seers, prophets as well as medicine men and women. These influential people were often called diviners, and were specifically trained in the practice and interpretation of their divinatory skills. Communicating with the supernatural, and seeking advice for people’s public and personal lives was an essential part of their role.
One of the classic techniques used by shamans in the far north was the practice of placing a dried caribou scapula in a fire and asking the spirits for the location of the migrating herd of caribou. The cracked and blackened scapula was then pulled from the fire and read by the shaman like a map. Time and again the herds were found in the place shown on the scapula and the tribe would survive another winter.
Of course, our 21st century queries about finding food differ greatly in that we don’t need to divine the location to the nearest supermarket or restaurant…we simply ask Siri, and then in typical 21st century fashion, become annoyed with too many choices!
Still, in the modern world average people practice various forms of divination all the time without even being aware of it. Consulting a daily horoscope, flipping a coin or even asking Alexa to decide barely makes a blip on the supernatural radar for most folks. However, when changes, challenges and uncertainties fill our lives, divination can help to discover answers by illuminating our choices. And like the Shamans in the far north, this help can come from sources in everyday life which show “divine will” in response.
Spending time in nature with a question in mind, and quietly observing what grabs your attention, be it a squirrel who crosses your path, a bird flying overhead or even a sudden gust of wind can reveal a hidden message when interpreted through the lens of metaphor. Spirit will speak to us in a thousand different ways, and from just as many sources if we are willing to listen. So even something as innocuous as stepping on a gooey wad of gum when brooding about your job dissatisfaction or hearing your favorite happy-dance song while on your way to view the house you will one day own can be powerful portends.
Divinatory tools such as tarot cards, I-Ching, runes and pendulums are also a dynamic way to find answers to the questions that sometimes elude us. Common inquiries like: “How can I meet someone to share my life? Is this a good location for my business? or what is the best way to improve my health?” can be brought into focus through divining. In doing so, our social, personal and work-related questions can be highlighted and our conflicted emotions understood to make the best decision.
In Shamanism, helping spirits in the form of power animals, spirit teachers and ancestors all help to uncover guidance from the spirit realm. Shamanic divination methods can help us to see big truths about our past, present and future, which opens the door for healing and inner wisdom. Divination in all its forms allows for the opportunity of insight and perspective. As we tune into our true nature and change disempowering beliefs, we ignite our purpose, and rediscover the gifts we brought with us into this lifetime.
· Shamanic Divination classes are taught twice yearly. Check calendar for dates and info. (Introduction to Shamanism is a prerequisite for this class)
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