Assignment One - Answers
 

Students -

Please post your answers to the first assignment here. Please put your group # and topic at the beginning of your message.

This thread is for answers to the assignment only. Please post any questions that you may have regarding the assignment in the original assignment thread, or feel free to PM or email me with questions.

Thank you.

I'm from group #1 dealing with the tarot. Here's my list of the pros and cons of using the tarot for reading the past.

pros
influences on present situations
gives specific answers in the past
reveals emotions, events, and actions
shows immediate past
shows far past

cons
Subject to reader's interpretation
might hurt those dwelling in the past

I really couldn't think of any cons. I hope this is ok.

Anubis RainHawk

Group 4: Celtic Ogham
Origins

Celtic Ogham is a much disputed alphabet. While there are examples of its use from an early date, few are of any length and many scholars doubt that it was ever used for extensive writing. Most of what is "known" about the ogham is from a relatively late date (compared to the age generally attributed to the ogham and the period it is believed to have been in use.) The "Book of Ballymore" and the "Scholar's Primer" are two of the more influential texts.

There is not a clear order or meaning assigned to each. The meanings and order may have changed over time, there may never have been a universal version of the ogham (instead, there may have been local versions), there may be corruption of the tradition due to lost information and misinformation or any combination of the previous. Furthermore, there are many forms "ogham" can take varying from the more familiar "tree-ogham" and its variations to bird-ogham, cow-ogham, human ogham, etc. I believe it is the Book of Ballymore which proclaims there to be 150 forms.

Scholars are divided on the source of the symbols themselves and the concept of an alphabet. Some claim Hebrew, some Latin, some Germanic Runes or particular Greek alphabets as a source for the alphabet. The letters may have been created as a simple code (slash marks upon a ridge) or to represent hand signals.

With the Celtic Romanticists and the modern revival of the druids, ogham was resurrected. However, much of the information on the ogham claimed from that time period is questionable because of what we would now consider poor scholarship or outright fraud. This is especially true regarding the correspondences attributed to each symbol/letter. We cannot claim to be certain whether these attributions would have made any sense to the ancients. This does not diminish its use as a divination, however. Whether ancients would have understood it as modern diviners do or not does not make it any less useful than a divination perfectly preserved from BCE 2000.

Group 4: Ogham
Meditation

It is possible to use ogham as a meditation tool. The most obvious use would be to simply meditate upon a specific symbol and the correspondences attributed to it. For example: B, birch, white, pheasant, etc. How do they support each other? How do they overlap? What is the overall picture created by them? Through this one can come to a deeper understanding of the individual symbol. Once one has such a conection to the symbol, one can meditate on the symbol to evoke that which the symbol represents.

A possibility for a more physical meditation is presented by the manual forms of the ogham. It is possible to use them in a manner similar to mudras.

Pathworkings remain a possibility, but the number of varients can make it problematic. The idea of a pathworking is to work with the symbols in an order in which each symbol builds from the previous and contribuites to an understanding of those which follow to eventually create a unified system. It is hard to say which orderings of the ogham suceeds in doing this. If one attempts to do an ogham pathworking, I would recomend keeping in mingd the possibility of re-ordering the system if it doesn't seem to be working.

Group 3 Crystal Ball
 

Divination
Crystal Ball Scrying---

Where the type of divination originated (if possible)
Crystal Ball Gazing -- Crystallomancy. Crystal balls are an ancient form of divination. Scrying with a crystal - spheromancy - is a specific form of crystallomancy (also known as catoptromancy). Crystallomancy refers to scrying using any reflective surface, such as a pool of water in the moonlight or a polished mirror.

What the most common use is for the type of divination (IE past answers, future answers, etc)
It would appear that you can use the crystal ball for most any type of answer search from what I’ve read.

Pro's and con's of using this type of divination for:
-Meditation
It seems from what I read that this tool can be used much like any other divinatory tool. Allows for focusing and concentrating.
-Answers about the future
Common information seems to be to be sure or the question and type of answer(s) you seek.
-Answers about the past
Be careful here is a common thought, there are some things you may not wish to know. Seems to be held as common opinion to have a thought of what you wish to know before going into the actual scrying so that you don’t receive or pick up unwanted visions.
-Answers about the present
Common information seems to be to be sure or the question and type of answer(s) you seek.

Examples of questions that you would personally ask when using this type of divination
Past Questions might would have to do with things from past which would influence how you think act or react now.
Past emotional or Traumatic experiences which may have an effect now.
Possible courses of action for all these.

Future Questions might be to consider all possible outcomes of a decision , Short range “forecast” …

Present Questions To aid in understanding or the ability to decide on current issues.

Q
 

This is the most recent work our group has. I will update this post when the other members complete their sections.


Group 4(-Ember,Aedyn,CanisFireBrand,Aleigh):

Celtic Ogham

Group 1:Tarot
 

Im going to need an extension or either need to drop this class.I had my answers on my pc,but over the week end I had major computer problems :fpcsucks and well lost all I had.And I havent had time to do any further research since.....Sorry for any inconvenience..

Group 4- Celtic Ogham
 

Pros and cons for Past and Present:
Like any other divination system, the Ogham can be used to seek past and present answers, but it is hard to find methods that included past answers. One traditional casting method called Colebreni involves just tossing the staves into the air and interpreting them according to how they fall. Colebreni assigns the staves that fall closest to the caster as indicating present influences, with ones further away indicating the future. This method apparently doesn’t give past answers at all. On of the advantages of this method for finding present influences is that the way the staves fall can show what influences directly affect each other, because the staves fall so they are touching each other. Another method called “Hand of the Tree” involves holding one’s hand over an object and “reading its vibrations”. I couldn’t find clear instructions on how this method works or how it would give past answers. However, I did find reference to laying out the staves in a method similar to Tarot, and this of course would give past answers, as well as present and future. As with any other divination method, Ogham depends on the interpreter, so the answers are only as good as the interpreter. One of the only major cons to this system, it seems, is learning the meanings of the different symbols. There aren’t really visual cues (such as the pictures in Tarot or the shapes in tea leaves) to help interpret them so it seems one would have to either instinctively feel the meanings or memorize all 24 symbols and all of their possible meanings.

Questions for use with Ogham:
One can use the same sort of questions with the Ogham as with Tarot or other methods. It seems to be more geared toward present and future influences, so it would be excellent for questions on things like career decisions, relationship decisions, “Should I or shouldn’t I?” type questions, and questions on what is going to happen in the near or distant future.


(I also found a little more info on the origins to add to what -Ember has already posted).

There is botanical evidence that the Ogham may not have originated solely in Ireland/England. In 1964 researchers from Cambridge University did a study to determine in which countries all 20 trees of the Ogham could be found growing naturally. Britain lacks two of the species, Ireland three. The only four countries where all of the species could be found naturally were Germany, France, Switzerland and Italy…mostly in the Rhine River valley. This suggests that the alphabet (or maybe just the use as hand symbols?)may have first been developed in this area and was then adopted-and the use became much more prevalent-in Ireland. If that's true it certainly would help explain why the Irish included tree species that don’t even grow in Ireland, and the Rhine Valley region was part of the Celtic world, so it seems like information could have been shared somewhat freely between the two regions. Source

I'm posting this separate from my group cuz it just doesn't seem like they're gonna get it done on time.

Runes

History - The name rune comes from Norse and Germanic words for "mystery" or "secret". It's orginal meaning is thought to have to do with a verbal idea, and later runes were created to visually represent those ideas. Each rune represents a mystery and has its own lore. They can also be used as an alphabet though. The oldest set of runes was a set of 24 called the Elder Futhark. It was later shortened to 16 and called the Younger Futhark. But there are also variations all over the region where Germanic languages were spoken.

Commonly used for: can be used for divining the past and future as runecasting is considered to be a method to establish direct communication between humans and the gods.

Pro/Cons: Runes can be useful for divining the past, present, and future as it is fundamentally connected with the Great Norns - Urdhr, Verdhandi, & Skuld or the past, present and future. In Germanic thinking the future is determined by the past and present and therefore it is necessary to know all three. So I would say that this method is good if you wish to see all the might impact the result but not necessarily if you only want the past, present, or future.

As each rune is considered to represent a "mystery" I think that they could certainly be used for meditation although I have seen no direct evidence to back this up.

Examples of questions: Good questions would be those asking about the past of a situation and what one might do to reach their desired goal. For example: The general direction of life, Is someone headed in the right direction?

Edit: whoops I forgot to mention my source - Runecaster's Handbook by Edred Thorsson.

Here is some additional information on runes. I am posting this for my group. Thanks to all who shared information :floating:


Runes
Group 2


The oldest known and most popular rune symbols include what is known as the “Elder Futhark”. The runic alphabet begins with the letters F,U,Th,A,R,K hence the name “Futhark” is attached to describing the sets the runic alphabet. Here is a brief description of the symbols of the Elder Futhark . The symbols themselves are based on these letters but look slightly different. Keep in mind, in a runic set, the “u” looks upside down and the “th” is looks somewhat like the letter “p”, or a thorn. The following are only short descriptions of the meanings.

F- “Fehu”-Success, Wealth It is associated with cattle

U- “Uraz”-Power, wisdom and knowledge. It is associated with Aurochs, a great oxen

Th- “Thurizas” –Protection. It is associated with Thorns that protect a plant.

A-“Ansuz” –Magic. It is associated with God and the divine.

R- “Raidho” Wheel, Motion. Associated with inner and outer journeys.

K- “Kenaz” Knowledge, Torch of Illumination. Associated with transformation.

http://msms.essortment.com/whatarerunes_rwth.htm



The twenty four runes of the Elder Futhark are divided into three groups of eight or (Aett). Eight represents the eternal and continuous spiral motion of the universe and of all evolutionary cycles, and holds the secret of balance. The number three is symbolic of the Trinity, an expansive number, unlimited and free, pointing the way to transmutation. The first aett is about creation. The second aett is about the human elements. The third aett is about reaching that higher frequency. Each Rune as well contains three aspects. The first is the symbol, or image itself. The second is the name, meaning and letter value, and the third the energy the rune embodies. In their entirety runes represent constantly changing and evolving universal forces.


http://www.amystical1.com/divinationrunemeanings.htm



Learning to Read
The first step in learning to read the runes must be to get to know the runes themselves. This doesn't necessarily mean memorizing interpretations out of a book, although the literal meanings of the rune names should be memorized as a starting point. Instead, take one rune each day, starting with fehu and ending with oþila, and meditate on it. There are several exercises you can do daily to aid in this: word association with the rune names, visualization, physical connection with the rune, etc.

http://www.tarahill.com/runes/runediv.html

Group 3-Crystal Ball

Here is a little information I found about the history and practice of scrying with a crystal ball:

Crystal balls

Keyword summary: divination, scrying

Crystal balls have long been regarded as a symbol of divination and a means of scrying, by both Eastern and Western traditions. When people first began scrying, they used reflective surfaces to gain knowledge and information about the future. As crystals were discovered, particularly clear quartz, they became the perfect scrying tool, due to their transparency and symmetry. Using a crystal ball in this way is referred to as crystallomancy.

Readers of crystal balls say that gazing into the centre can aid the ability to look beyond the physical world into the spiritual realm, to communicate with loved ones who’ve passed on, gain insight from spirit guides and see messages about the future.

North American shamans referred to quartz crystals as light-stones and believed they were "splinters from the Heavenly Throne." As such, they became a crucial element in their bid for clairvoyance. Druids also used crystals for scrying and traditional Scottish Highlanders called them "stones of power." As well as divination, crystal balls have also been used for healing. The Ancient Egyptians used crystal spheres as a means of concentrating the rays of the sun onto a particular area of the body that needed healing.

When choosing a crystal ball, use your intuition and be guided to one that feels right for you. Some people prefer totally clear and flawless items, whereas others feel guided to choose ones with small flecks or imperfections. The thing to remember is that it doesn’t matter what it looks like to other people, it’s how you feel about it and can relate to it that matters. If it feels right to you, than go for it! Take time to become familiar with your crystal ball before you launch into using it – a good way is by meditating whilst holding it and trying to connect with its energy.

Lol! Edited to remove a whole lot of redundancy:) I couldn't post the link, due to major puter troubles tonight. Sorry about the cut and paste-I just got back from a trip out of state.

Empress

Group 3-Crystal Ball

More history and scrying info:

Crystal Balls


For many people, when they hear the word, “crystal ball”, they think of the wicked witch in the Wizard of Oz casting evil spells while gazing into her crystal ball, or some hardened gypsy just waiting to read your future. While the crystal ball does have an association with witchery, crystal balls are also used in Feng Shui or simply displayed because of their beauty.

We will break this down into three sections to give you a better idea of use and power of the crystal ball. Many people use a crystal ball for scrying, which is also known as crystallomancy. This practice is generally used by psychics, sorcerers, and seers for seeing into the past, present, and future, while using the crystal ball. The power of the crystal ball is used to take you on a journey where you will connect with the spirits of friends and family

One of the first uses of the crystal ball can be traced back to the Druids. The Scottish Highlanders first discovered the powers of the crystal ball. In these times, the crystal ball was created from beryl. Crystal balls were very prominent in the middle ages and when the scryers were finished with the work of their crystal ball, they would often pass their cherished crystal ball to their apprentice.

In addition to the world of witchery, crystal balls are also a large part of Feng Shui. Japanese respect the crystal ball and consider it a symbol of purity and perfection. Artisans in Japan have created crystal balls for centuries. They believe the dragon to be the supreme symbol of power and first believed the crystal ball was formed from the dragon’s breath. Quartz is able to transmit heat although it is cool to the touch. For this reason, the Japanese believed the crystal ball was ice, unable to melt. In Feng Shui, crystal balls are a cure for the adjustment of “Ch’i” and are used to bring positive energy. Often, the crystal ball will be placed in a window to change the “Sha” from entering the home, or in other words, negative things from the outside would transmute to positive things on the inside.

The third category for the crystal ball is for the people that enjoy the beauty of a crystal ball and display them in a lit china cabinet. For these people, they do not consider the power of the crystal ball. To them, it is all about a beautiful artifact for their home or office. It is the shine and brilliance of the crystal ball that entices them.

Each color of the crystal ball is believed to have special powers. Here are just a few examples:

*

Rainbow Crystal Ball – Produces light and protection, wards off evil while promoting good in all things, and helps people relax and have positive dreams
*

Rose Crystal Ball – Brings love to relationships, promotes self love, and heals emotions
*

Green Crystal Ball – Provides strong protection and shields against negativity
*

Lavender Crystal Ball – Helps enhance sensitivity and builds self-expression for people who are shy, anxious, nervous, stressed, suffer headaches, or insomnia
*

Amethyst Crystal Ball – Promotes general healing and meditation and helps with insomnia, grief, and addictions
*

Malachite Crystal Ball – Reveals past life, present patterns of behavior, and heals issues and relationships
*

Amber Crystal Ball – Energizes, helps in births, and warms the heart
*

Aqua Aura Crystal Ball – Helps connect with angels

The crystal ball can be made from a number of materials. The most popular choices are quartz and rock crystal. However, there are also lab-grown crystals and glass balls. The natural crystals are obviously, natural and tend to be stronger. Regardless of the use for the crystal ball, the natural crystal is by far the most powerful and most preferred. However, the lab-grown crystals are often used for superconductivity, although they can be used for scrying and Feng Shui as well. Generally, the lab-grown crystal is without inclusions and costs much less, although they do make excellent crystal balls. Finally, the glass “crystal” ball is more difficult to read. Additionally, the glass is unable to store information or history and is not good for scrying. Typically, the brighter the crystal ball, the more power it posses.

Found at: www.bargainjims.com/crystal-ball.asp

Group 6
Candle Gazing

This is what I have found, there is some discussion about this form of Divination being Scrying and some saying it is Meditation.

LYNCHNOMANCY:
Divination from the behaviour of candle flames



Divination should always proceed any magical work. Doing a divination first can often bring up issues that sharpen the focus of the work. Knowing what forces are at play is critical, and if the working is of a personal nature, it can clarify what our primary needs and motives are.

Divination can be considered to have two primary classes; intuitive and objective. When using intuitive forms of divination the magician seeks visions. Intuitive forms of divination include dreams, crystal and candle gazing. Objective forms of divination depend on symbols associated with either natural phenomena such as the movement of the planets in Astrology or the random movement of objects such as dice in the case of Geomancy or cards in Tarot.


Candle gazing is the act of gazing into the flame of the candle and focusing one’s mind on the task to be done. It is a learned skill that takes a lot of patience and practice. The witch gazes into the flame without blinking, all the while with her mind focused on whatever he or she wishes to become a reality. The eyes begin to water, and the strain can be overwhelming at times, which is why practice in candle gazing is imperative. Overtime the witch will learn to control his or her body to become still and focused. A witch can say a mantra, either out loud or to his/herself to reach the desired outcome. Time spent gazing varies, depending on the witch’s ability.



Tarot cards, runes, candle gazing, crystal gazing, spirit writings and all the like are some of the magickal tools of scrying. Any means by which the future may be imparted unto you is a method of scrying.

Excellent work so far everyone! :)

I'm going to extend this for a few more days, just in case anyone else has any more information to add.

I will go ahead and post the next lesson and the lesson plan this week though.