Bibliomancy, also known as sortilege, involves interpreting messages from randomly selected passages in books to gain insights into the future. While it shares similarities with other forms of divination, bibliomancy is unique in its reliance on the written word.
1. Books for Bibliomancy
Bibliomancy traces its origins to classical times, with records of texts by Virgil, Homer, and other ancient authors being used for divinatory purposes. Today, however, it is most commonly associated with modern religious books, such as the Christian Bible.
Of course, one does not need to limit themself to classical works or religious texts. Bibliomancy can be used with any book, such as a Harry Potter book or Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Mists of Avalon.
2. How It Works
The process of bibliomancy is simple. The practitioner, eyes closed and trusting in spiritual guidance, selects a passage by pointing a finger, pin, or silver knife at random within a book. The chosen verse is then interpreted to answer a specific question or predict future events. The practice is especially popular on New Year’s Day, as it is believed to reveal what the coming year holds.
3. Proverbs for Character
In the United States, a unique variant of bibliomancy has emerged, particularly for romantic inquiries. By consulting the first chapter of the Book of Proverbs, a person can discern the true character of a partner by reading the verse corresponding to their age.
4. Love Divination with the Bible and a Key
Another interesting form of bibliomancy involves a Bible and a door key, and is often used for love divination. It allows a girl to assess a suitor’s suitability. By inserting a door key between the pages of the Song of Solomon, binding and suspending the Bible with her garter or stocking, and having friends place their fingers on the key ring, the girl chants a verse from the Song of Solomon. If the Bible moves or falls, it signifies a favorable union. If it remains still, marriage is unlikely.
5. Finding Out the Truth
To discover if someone is telling the truth, you are supposed to hold a book of your choice in your hands and recite the following:
Spin words,
Tell tales,
Truth always
Prevails.
Open the book to a random page and, with eye closed, point to a passage. What it says is your answer.
