The Art of

Divination
Practices from
around the World
Konecky & Konecky
72 Ayers Poi nt Rd .
Old Saybrook, CT 06475

Copyright © Marabout 2003

Translated from French by Rosetta Translations

Translation copyright © Konecky & Konecky, l ie. 2005

Th is work published by special arrangement with

Hachette I l l u strated.

All rights reserved. N o part of th is book may be

reprod uced or uti l ized i n any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopyi ng and
record i ng, or by any information retrieval system,
without perm ission i n writ ing from the publisher.

ISBN: 1 -56852-5 1 1 -7

Pri nted and bound in China

 Didier Blau

The Art of
Divination
Practices from
around the World

Illustrations by Linh Thai Duy

101
KONECKY&KONECKY
 Fo rewo rd

S
i nce the dawn of time, men and women al l over the world have tried
to fathom the mystery of the futu re . "M essengers" such as shamans,
magicians, priests, druids or soothsayers weave a l i n k between the gods
and human bei ngs, as wel l as between the forces of the un iverse and thei r
influences on our l ives, our actions, a n d consequently our desti nies.

Each of the methods of d ivi nati on presented in th is book has been

adapted to the modern world so that you can easily make use of it i n
you r everyday l ife and find answers t o the questions that you are aski ng
you rself today

Each of these methods has its own manner of th inki ng, its own trad itions
and sym bols, and its particular way of proceed i ng. Each one wi l l appeal

4
to you i n its own way and answer certain questions. With time and prac­
tice, you w i l l d iscover which ones suit you best and are most effective at
respond i ng to you r concerns. You wi l l develop you r sensitivity, you r imag­
ination, and you r ab i l ity to recogn ize and respect you r feeli ngs.

Approach the oracles with del icacy and good wi l l . Finally, you must be
aware that to preserve the i r val ue, the arts of d ivi nation must not be
"practiced" too often .The maxi mum should be one q uestion per person
per day

N ow you can start practici ng! For others and for you rself, become the
"messenger" who combi nes wisdom and i ntu ition, l i n ki ng heaven and
earth.

s
Divination around the world

The Ogham
page 10

Numerology
page 182
Darb er-Raml
page 66

• Jogo dos buzios

page 196
 Nordic runes
•
page ISO

Colors
The I Ching
page 118 •

. ' .\ ,-, :i� .�t:\ . page 160

Tarot
page 78
Mo

• �c �f ,
a ient Egypt
• page

•
SO

pa 36 Mahabo
�age 208

Venda tablets
page 24
•
Zulu
divination
page 132

7
 Divina tion around the world

The Ogham of the Ce lts i nvo lves D a rb e r- R a m l, the o racle of the san d ,
choosing a tree, whose sym bol gives you i nvolves d rawing a sym bol that reveals
g u i dance about yo u r situat i o n as it wheth e r the omen fo r the future is
presents itself favorable.

Ven d a tabl ets rep resenting the The Ta rot (someti mes known as the
m e m bers of a fam i ly are parti c u l arly Tarot of M arse i l l es) and its arcana
good at resp o n d i ng to ro mantic describe the mental state of the person
questions. aski ng the q uestion, the situation as it is,
and how it wi l l develop.
The o racle of a n c i e nt Egypt expresses
yo u r strengths and weaknesses as we l l The choice of a symbol i n the To nalamalt
a s reveal i ng t h e o utco m e o f yo u r or Aztec Book of Destiny wi l l establish
situation. the prediction for the future according to
the area and the question asked.
M o, a Tibetan trad iti o n , conj u res u p a
poetic i m age that answe rs yo u r C o l o rs
and the i r associations deal with
questions. romantic relationshi ps, you r mental state ,
that of you r partner; and what u n ites you
or what separates you today.

8
 Divina tion around the world

I n Z u l u d ivi n ati on, numbers and sym bols The Jogo dos buzios is the mouthpiece
give recommendations on you r situation of the Orixas.These Brazil ian gods reveal
and its developments. whether you are benefiting from special
favorable protection for you r proj ects.
In the No rd i c ru nes, the letters of the
ancient Saxon a l p h abet, each letter Mahabo, the Burmese art of d ivinatio n ,
emanates a special force and a pred iction looks at t h e day o f t h e week on w h i c h
fo r the future of yo u r ro m antic you were born a n d t h e t i m e a n d day on
relationshi ps. wh ich you are aski ng the questi on. It tells
yo u wheth e r the t i m e i s favo rab l e fo r
The I C h i ng, an age-old Chi nese oracle, acti on.
clarifies yo u r situation and suggests the
best way of behavi ng. Ku m a l ak, the Kazakh stan art of
d ivi n ati o n , stu d i es the m e ntal state of
Numero l ogy is based on the sym bolism the questi oner as wel l as the q uesti oner's
of the n u m bers of yo u r date of b i rth, fee l i ngs, situation, and destination.
wh ich determ ine the trends of the next
n1ne years.

9
C e l t i c wo r l d stre t c h e d fr m
Gaul as far J Scotian�, including
I
I reland, Wales, and Spanish Gali-
cia. The Celts read the future i n
d reams, the shape o f clouds, the
fl i ght of b i rds, t � e skeleto n s of
an ir"?als, and i n the O g ham, the
"secret langua e of the poets."
The C e lts be eved that trees
were the re ptacles of cosm ic
forces. By
 Co n s u lti n g th e orac l e

The Ogham requires twenty wooden sticks about three inches

long and a little under half an inch thick. If you can, make them your­
self, since then they will be more charged with your own energy. Mark
each one of them with the Celtic name of a tree, and then put
them in a bag.When you have asked your question, take one stick out
of the bag. You may also proceed without asking a particular ques­
tion, in which case the oracle can be interpreted in a general sense.

Alternatively, use the wheel on the oppos ite page as fo l l ows:

1
Put your finger on a tree at random.

2
Choose a number between I 0 and 30 and count this number of
squares, clockwise or counterclockwise as you wish.

3
The tree you finish on is the oracle. Look up the associated symbol
in the following pages and read the guidance it gives.

12
 The Ogham, the Celtic a rt of d ivina tion

20 I
19 2

� 17
18 3

4
�
' 16 s �
15 6

14 7

13 8
12 9
11 10

13
 I nte rp retati o n s

l Beithe 2 Luis
BIRCH ROWAN

Famous for its beauty i n spri ng, the birch I n Celtic trad ition, the fru its of the rowan
tree sym bol izes a begi n n i ng. It i nvolves tree are the "food of gods," and the tree
e n e rgy, vital ity, and rising fo rce . It m ay has magical properties. It acts as a pro­
indicate the start of a project, the begin­ tect i o n aga i n st ench antm e nt and evi l
n i ng of a u n i o n , o r the bi rth of a ch i l d . spel ls.This sym bol cal ls o n you r i ntuition.
T h e b i rch acts a s a p rotection because You must be perceptive and perfect you r
it bri ngs l u ck, good fo rtu n e , and the knowledge o f the situation i n which you
promise of improvement What is good fin d yo u rself. Then act, and yo u wi l l
w il l happen, and what is bad wi l l go away. achieve the success you hope for:

Guidance Guidance
An i m p o rtant ch ange i s about to hap­ The rowan evokes the hidden forces that
pen, but you must not be afraid of it Rid are with i n you. Be carefu l not to be over­
you rself of what n o l onger meets yo u r come by the i m p ressions and i ntu iti ons
needs and have faith i n the futu re. Do not that you are experienci ng. Do not doubt
lag beh ind this movement, but precede it you rself, or others will doubt you too.
Good news is com i ng you r way.

14
 The Ogh a m, the Celtic a rt of divina tion

3 Fern 4 Sail
ALDER WiLLOW

The special characteristics of the alder I n Celtic trad iti o n , the w i l l ow tree was
tree are that it does n ot rot i n wate r, used by witches as a medici nal plant that
and that when you cut it the wood turns they boi led i n their magic cau ldrons.The
red. It is the sym bol of strength and per­ wi l l ow grows near water; sym bol of the
�everance.T he situation i n wh ich you find unconscious. It therefore i nvolves imagi­
yourself needs tenacity and determ i na­ nation, an i ntu itio n of the strengths that
t\m.You m u st remain fi rm and l oyal to you have with i n yo u but of w h i c h yo u
your principles and follow a more trad i­ are not yet aware. lt is with i n you rself or
tional p � er than an original one. with i n you r fam i ly circle or among your
Even if there I S competition, you will end c l o se fri e n d s that yo u wi l l find the
u p the winner; but o n ly if you remain true answers to you r questions.
to you rself
Guidance
Guidance You have a whole world i nside you wait­
You must be certain of you r roots and ing to be d iscovered, and you must move
you r foundations, or everyth ing wi l l col­ i n that d i rect i o n . Be perceptive and
lapse i n the med i u m term. Yo u need to s h rewd , o r eve n c u n n i ng if necessary.
know when to change and when to pre­ Then, i n you r present situati on, you will
serve the status quo. Do n ot be afrai d be able to deal m o re eas i ly with the
o f defeat or fai l u re. Remain honest and unexpected dangers that could arise on
gen u i ne. Act with clarity. your path.

IS
 The Ogh a m . the Celtic a rt of d ivina tion

S Nnoin 6 Huath
AsH HAWTHORN

The ash tree represents the l i n k between The hawthorn with its sharp thorns that
you r inner world and the external world. tear clothes does not have a good rep­
But it warns yo u to be carefu l . I n deed, utation i n Celtic trad iti on, and its omen
yo u have a te n d e n cy to bel i eve that is not favorable.You have let you rself go.
th ings are as you see them. I n you r situ­ or yo u have comm itted excesses; n ow
ati o n appearances are deceptive . Yo u you are moving from "too much " to "too
must exercise clear judgment looki ng at l i ttle," and th is may refer to material mat­
the situation as a whole and not only at ters or to emoti onal ones.The hawthorn
the detai ls. Yo u m u st u n d e rstan d h ow also i n d i cates a lack of self-esteem o r
you r actions lead to reactions.There is a t h e unconscious sabotage o f you r proj­
close relationsh i p between the two. ects.

G u i dance G u i dance
Don't act yet. For the moment you must Yo u must rid yo u rself of what is weak­
cut yo u rself off fro m the wo r l d , with­ ening you or break you r bad habits. Iso­
d rawing a l ittle and d i stan c i ng yo u rself lati on and sol itude are essential before
from th i ngs. Yo u wi l l then have a wider you can start agai n . Do n ot act yet;
view ofthe situation, which wi l l be a guar­ remain patient and keep you r problems
antee of you r success. to yo u rself. I f yo u can reappraise yo u r
situati on, you wi l l ach i eve success. Oth­
erwise, bad l uck wi l l pursue you .

16
 The Ogham. the Celtic art of divination

7 Duir 8 Tinne
OAK HOLLY

Symbol of power and stability, the oak is Always on the defensive, holly pricks
the tree of the druids, the great vessel anyone who gets too close. If your situ­
receiving and storing cosmic forces, the ation is not happy, you are feeling the
sign of a heroic destiny, generous actions, effects of your bad actions in the past.You
and a noble heart.The situation in which are now forced to unite opposing forces
you find yourself requires strength of in order to find the proper balance.
character and endurance. Great joy
awaits you, if you behave openly, natu­ Guidance
rally, and honestly. Like holly, which remains green through
the winter; you must remain firm in
Guidance adversity.There are problems to be over­
Now is a time for synthesis, to gather come, and that will give you real strength.
under your mantle all the people and But for the moment. do nothing. You
forces that were scattered until now. If need to know more; you are not well
need be, don't hesitate to take control enough informed, and you lack precise
of operations, assuming the role of directions and objectives. In particular; if
leader. it is a problem of legal action or money,
you should remain on the defensive.

17
 Th e Ogh a m . th e Cel tic a rt of d ivina tion

9 Call 10 Queirt
HAZEL APPLE

The hazel tree is an exce l l e nt o m e n With its d e l i c i o u s , j u i cy fru it. the apple
because i t represents creativity. I t sym­ tree i s the sym bol of eternal youth . It
bol izes a source of beauty and pu rity. It expresses beauty, perfection, and l ove .
re l ates to co m m u n i cati o n , language , The situation in which you find you rself is
i d eas, and knowledge . The situat i o n i n much to you r advantage .Yourtask now is
which you fi n d you rself enables you to to harmon ize what must be, to balance
teach someth i n g to other peo p l e , but the forces aro u n d yo u , and to l o o k fo r
also to learn someth ing from them. You beauty and perfection in everyth ing you
have good j udgment, you are i n control do, in all aspects of everyday l ife.
of the situation, and you can act as ref­
eree and conciliator. Guidance
The apple tree i nvites you to l ive i ntense­
Guidance ly. to l ive l ife to the fu l l . D o n 't take o n
You are capable of givi ng much to those too much, don't try t o do everyth i ng at
aro u n d yo u . Tal k, l i sten , com m u n i cate the same time, but fo l l ow a si ngle path,
you r knowledge . express you r ideas. and weigh i ng u p you r efforts and letting you r
fo l l ow yo u r i ntu iti ons. Otherwise yo u r heart speak out. Yes. you r best assets are
creativity wi l l d ry u p . a n d yo u r tal e nts to be found at the bottom of you r heart.
wi l l cru m bl e away and beco m e scat­
tered.

18
 The Ogham, the Celtic art of divination

11 12 Gort
ViNE IVY

It hooks on, it clings, and it climbs ... Ivy

The vine symbolizes wine.lt is not a mat­ is the symbol of inner strength and
ter of losing consciousness but of tenacity.The situation in which you find
becoming aware .The vine removes inhi­ yourself is developing.You are in the
bitions, freeing you from logical and
process of changing your habits, your
rational thought processes. It brings
lifestyle or your medium-term
peace of mind, thus allowing you to find
objectives. But this will take time. It will
the solutions to your problems within
require patience and, in particular
yourself. It is a sign of good omen as long
courage, combined with great
as you opt for simple ideas, living sober­
determination. In this way the
ly without tr ying to impress or imitate
transformations you are looking for will
others.
become reality

Guidance
You are enthusiastic, but be sure to keep Guidance
your feet on the ground.Don't let your­ Throw yourself fully into what you are
self be carried away by projects and doing. Concentrate on the goal you are
desires. Do not go to the other extreme; aiming at and the means of achieving it.
in other words, do not become lazy or Know what you want, draw up a plan in
too self-indulgent. For the time being, advance and stick to it. Like the ivy, cling
patience is strongly recommended. Be to what you want.
objective and remain alert.You will prob­
ably meet someone who will help you.

19
 The Ogha m . the Cel tic a rt of divina tion

13 14 Strait
REED BLACKTHORN

The reed that grows near lakes and the In Celtic trad iti on the blackthorn has a
sea sym b o l izes harmo ny. It is a sign of bad re putation, being the shrub of evi l
growth, good health, and wel l-bei ng.The s p e l l s . I t sym b o l izes fo rces that are
time has come to u n ify the various points stronger than you , problems, and physi­
of vi ew, to regro u p what is scattered, cal o r psyc h o l ogical constrai nts. In the
and to fi nd the point of eq u i l ibri u m . It is c u rrent situat i o n you d o n ot contro l
in th is relational context, with you r fam­ events or people. You do not even con­
i ly, you r partner or you r close circle that trol yourself. . . You must move from the
you can now modify what already exists negative to the positive , from a restrict­
and improve you r relationshi ps. You can ed way of l ife to a new-found freedom.
i n fl uence events and peo p l e . Th i s is a
good omen. Guidance
Yo u are ruled by o uts i d e fo rces and
Guidance u nable to act freely.You need to become
Yo u m u st gu ard aga i n st anxiety and aware of th i s . Yo u m u st exorc i se yo u r
u n bridled i m ag i n ati o n . Yo u m ay be anxieties, put yo u r problems i nto per­
absent-mi nded and stray from the right spective , and show com passion towards
path, to the point of not knowing what yo u rself. Learn to recognize what yo u
yo u want any m o re . C o l l ect yo u r fear. Then everyth ing wi l l be easier.
tho ughts, cal l u p o n oth e r peo p l e , and
look for common goals.

20
 The Ogh a m, the Celtic a rt of d ivina tion

lS Ruis 16 Ailm
ELDER FIR

In Celtic trad ition, the elder tree is asso­ The fi r tree is seen as an exce l lent omen.
ciated with the c o l o r red , the c o l o r of In Celtic trad iti o n a branch i s p l aced
its fru its, w h i c h are used to prod uce a under the bed of a newborn baby. The
dye . Red i s the c o l o r of p rogress and fir represents good health , ene rgy, and
actio n . For you , it is the transiti o n from strength because it remains green all the
o n e state to anoth e r, a natural ch ange year ro u n d . The situation i n which yo u
that is begi n n i ng to take p l ace. Fro m a fi n d yo u rself demands mental stre ngth
psychological point of view, it represents and objectivity, but above all it req u i res
the passage fro m l ack of c o n cern to clarity. Now you can rise to a leve l where
m aturity. O n a m o re p ractical l eve l , it yo u wi l l gain a clear view of the prob­
cou ld herald a move or a journey. lem to be reso lved.

G u idance G u i dance
What i s old wi l l go away, wh i l e what is Weakness turns i nto strength, and your
n ew wi l l arrive . Yo u m u st n ot o n ly fo l ­ situation i m p roves. But be carefu l , yo u
low but also precede th is evolution. Do must exercise a degree of contro l over
n ot try to s l ow down th i s m ovement; others. Are you really capable of doing
do not cling to what is disappeari ng. Oth­ so? Is th is really what you want?The dan­
erwise yo u m ight stagnate . The elder is ger contained in th is message l ies i n exer­
tel l ing you that the times are changi ng. cising power without obj ectivity.

21
 The Ogham, the Celtic a rt o f d ivina tion

17 Onn 18 Ur
GORSE H EATHER

With th i s sym bol it is a m atte r of col­ Growing on moors, heather is the sym­
lecti ng together elements or people i n bol of imagination and i ntu ition, as wel l as
order t o tu rn them i nto someth i ng bet­ of d reams, romance, and great outpou r­
ter. In you r situati o n you must create a i ngs of the soul. The unconscious takes
synthesis. You must bring together peo­ p reced ence over consci o u s n ess, wh i l e
ple, materials, ideas, and information. Cal l what yo u fee l d e e p d own with i n you
upon trustworthy peop le, try to under­ must come out and be expressed. It is a
stand and harmonize you r relationshi ps, powe rfu l fee l i ng, m o re powerfu l than
and, i n particular; do not act selfishly, for you are-it is a passi o n ! You do not have
you r own benefit o n ly. a choice: you must do what you love to
do. Opportu n ities w i l l soon come you r
Guidance way a n d wi l l drive you i n that d i rection.
It is not the time to take on too much.You
have exce l l ent tru m p cards that m ight Guidance
lead to a rad ical change in you r way of Here the danger would be losing you r­
looking at l ife . But you must th i n k of the self i n m i nor problems instead of doing
com mon good, moving towards what is what you l ove to do. Yo u m u st act o n
good and beautifu l and distancing you r­ you r pass i o n s and n ot a l l ow yo u r pas­
self from what is ugly, sad , and unhealthy. sions to act on you . You need to express
you r inner self

22
 The Ogham, the Celtic a rt of d ivina tion

19 E d ad 20 I dad
ASPEN YEW

With its leaves rustl i ng in the wind, the The beautifu l evergreen tree that is the
aspen tree represents an obstacle to be yew h as p o i s o n o u s fru its. It is the tree
overcome . You are having difficulties or associated with cemeteries, and its sym­
problems in you r everyday l ife , but you bols are those associated with death and
m u st be d ete rm i ned to fi ght evi l . T h i s transformation. The yew represents the
i n c l udes t h e evi ls that are o utside yo u , earth, roots, our forebears, those thi ngs
but above all those that are with i n you : that l i n k us to o u r ancestors and what
bad habits, narrow-mi ndedness, t h e fear they have passed on to us. H ere , death
of not matching up to what is expected does n ot signify the end of l i fe but the
of you , the fear of fai l u re , and so on . T his passage from one state to another, a nar­
sym bol says that you have the abi l ity to row, difficult journey.
overcome negative situations.
Guidance
Guidance The cu rrent situation i nvolves a lack of
Obstacles and resistance are beco m i ng comfo rt, a l oss, fru stration o r a fee l i ng
apparent, but you can overcome them. of sad ness. Yo u m u st be fu l ly aware of
The aspen acts as a p rotect i o n , an the transformations that are taki ng place
e n c o u ragement. But be carefu l n ot to in yo u r l i fe . O n l y then wi l l you be able
help those who are opposing you . . . to move forward .

23
a n i mals, a n d h u man b e i n gs. The
Ve n d a peopl e of Z i m babwe u s e
an i mal b o nes, woo d e n tablets, o r
fl at sto n e s to fo recast the fu t u re .
The fo rces o f natu re that t h e
soothsayer cal l s u p o n-Rai n , F i re ,
W i n d , and Earth-are reflected i n
t h e ties that link the members of a
f":unil•�t• the Moth e r, the Father, the
 Co n s u lti n g th e o racl e

l
Get four pieces of wood, flat stones or pebbles (or cut out four
pieces of cardboard, each about two inches square). On one side
only, draw the following symbols:

The Son

The Father

The Daughter

The Father Water; rain, seed, the life force.

The Mother Fertile earth, the home, protection.

The Son Fire, lightning, instinct, passion.

The Daughter Air; wind, dispersal, charm.

26
 Venda ta blets

2
If possible, go and sit outside on the ground. Put your question or
ask the questioner to say it, out loud or silently.

3
Take the four symbols in your hands.
Squat down and concentrate for a few seconds. If you are using
wooden tablets or flat stones, throw them on the ground. If using
pieces of cardboard, throw them up in the air.

4
Study the result. T he symbols that are hidden (face down) are
"asleep" and these are removed. Look at the text that relates to
the combination of symbols (or the single symbol) that are "open"
or face up.

Example
"Open" symbols: Rain and Wind.
This combination:'The Father and the Daughter."

27
 I nte rpretati o n s

The Father The Mother

THIS TABLET STANDS FOR T H E RAIN WATER THIS TABLET STANDS FOR T H E NOURISHING,
THAT FERTILIZES THE EARTH, GIVING THE FERTILE EARTH, FAM ILY LIFE, AND THE HOME.
POWER OF LIFE, OF CREATION, STRENGTH, IT REPRESENTS A MATURE WOMAN O R A
POWER, AND R I C H ES. IT REPRESENTS A WOMAN WHO IS EXPECTING A CHILD..
MATURE, PROTECTIVE, WISE MAN ..

Omen
Omen For the time being do not undertake
Excel l ent i n all areas.The time has come anyth ing or start anyth ing new. Listen to
to take on responsi b i l ities, to act with the world around you , attend to details,
cou rage and fi rmness, and to know pre­ and protect those around you . People
cisely what you want. If you do these need you , you r advice, and you r time.
th i ngs, you wi l l certainly succeed! N ow is not the time to act but to wel­
come, to nourish, and to create .
If yo u r q u estion is abo ut love
You control the situation and it is u p to If you r q u esti o n is abo ut l ove
you to act. Therefore express you r pas­ It is not up to you but to the other per­
sion, take the in itiative , show the way, son to choose a d i rection or take a
and say what you want. You r partner decision. You must fo l low rather than
wi l l understand you and fol low you. take the lead. For the moment, be
• If you are a man, you have to make patient, receptive , and malleable. Soon
the first move . you r hopes wi l l be fu lfil led.
• If you are a woman, the oracle pre­ • If you are a man, the oracle pred icts
dicts that you w i l l meet a matu re man that you will soon meet a mature
or one older than you . woman or one who is older than you.
• If you are a woman, you can expect
fam i ly happiness or the prospect of a
birth.

28
 Ven da tabl ets

Th e Son
THIS TABLET STANDS FOR FIRE, ENTHUSIASM, THIS TABLET STANDS FOR AIR, WI N D,
WARMTH, AND E N ERGY. IT REPRESENTS A MOVEMENT, AND DISPERSAL, BUT ALSO FOR
YOUNG MAN. CHARM. IT REPRESENTS A YOU N G G I RL, A
YOUNG WOMAN, OR A CHILD.

Omen
Fire animates you. You are l i ke an ado­ Omen
lescent, excited and i m patient. You need Th is represents grace, beauty, and ease,
to develop, change and become i nde­ attraction and pleasure . You r role is to
pendent. In th is situation, you must bring harmony i nto the world around
accelerate the pace. Take a few risks you and to create connections. You r
and be wi l l i ng to shake th i ngs u p. freshness, i n n ocence, a n d joie de vivre
wi l l make the situation develop.
If you r q uesti o n is abo ut l ove
You are enl ivened by the fire of you r If yo u r q uesti o n i s abo ut l ove
emotions. N ow take the situation i n Jou rneys and opportu n ities for new
hand a n d make t h e fi rst move. Kick encounters and friendsh i ps are com i ng
start a relationsh i p by putti ng you r you r way-u nless you r fee l i ngs are too
cards on t h e table. Th is is t h e sign o f a n scattered, or you r faithfu l n ess is put to
i ntensely romantic but un bridled rela­ the test.
tionsh i p. • If you are a woman, you have numer­
• If you are a man, be carefu l not to ous tru m p cards; you r charm is u nde­
lose you r head. n iable.
• If you are a woman, th is tablet pre­ • If you are a man, there wi l l soon be
dicts the arrival of a young bachelor: an encounter . . .
a new partner is approaching . . .

29
 Venda tabl ets

The Father The Father

and the Mother and the Son
WATER A N D EARTH, T H E TWO PRIMORDIAL WATER AND FIRE, THE TWO MALE ENERGIES,
FORCES, U N ITE AND BECOME FERTI LIZED. ARE HERE COMBIN ED, GEN ERATING STEAM
T HEY PRODUCE ENERGY AND OFFER THEIR AN D MOTIVATION. T HEY DRIVE YOU TO DO
EXPERIENCE OF LIFE. A LOT, PERHAPS EVEN TOO MUCH!

Omen Omen
You are goi ng to give or receive sensi­ A force is sweeping you along irresistibly
ble advice and make an important deci­ An interesting project a task that is hard
sion. It wi l l lead to the successfu l con­ to complete successfu l ly or a com peti­
clusion of your projects and the real iza­ tion is loomi ng. There is a risk of going
tion of your wishes. You projects wi l l too far or causing tension. You must con­
develop a n d fiourish. trol the situation, ensuring that each per­
son remains in their place and does not
If you r q u esti o n i s abo ut l ove encroach on the other's territory
Father and Mother; the fu ndamental
couple, pred ict an encounter; a union, I f you r q u esti o n i s abo ut l ove
or a new eq u i l i bri u m . There wi l l be an Is it a struggle for power; a challenge
improvement i n you r re lati onshi ps, fam­ between su itors, or a matter of jealousy
i ly harmony, sensual satisfaction, and or infidel ity? Whatever it may be, your
sexual development or even the birth emoti onal situation is about to change .
of child! Everyth ing wi l l go wel l as long as the
partners feel free in their thoughts and
actions, and they can maintai n their
i ndependence.

30
 Venda tablets

The Father The Mother

and the D aughter and the Son
WATER A N D A I R COMBINE T H E POWERFUL I N T H I S COMBI NATION, T H E FIRE A N D ITS
ENERGY OF THE FATHER AND THE LIGHTNESS EN ERGY MUST NOT BURN THE EARTH AND
OF THE TEENAGE GI RL. EXHAUST IT, AND THE EARTH MUST NOT
SUFFOCATE THE FIRE OF ACTION.
Omen
Excellent news! Someth i ng original and Omen
unexpected is com i ng you r way. A new Energies are present but they are d iffi­
l i fe , new id eas, new co ntacts and cult to chan nel. This is the sign of
encounters . . . This response is benefi­ expansion, requ i ri ng that you contro l
cial i n all areas. the situati on by assessing you r proj ect
before acting, and carefu l ly balancing
If you r question is about love periods of action and periods of rest.
The wind is blowi ng, wh ile the moisture Be carefu l , i m patience could get· you
in the sky is regenerating the atmos­ i nto trouble.
phere and you r state of mind. The way
in which you see thi ngs and people is If you r question is about love
begi n n i ng to change. If you r present There is every chance that you will suc­
situation does not suit you, you can be ceed if you do not go over the top
sure that thi ngs won 't stay the same for through you r i m p u lsiveness. But all the
long! Do not remain fixated on one same, don't curb you r enth usiasm! You
thought or on one person. You wi l l soon must fi nd the right balance between
change you r surroundings, your pace , pass ion and wisd o m , and between
you r habits, or even . . . you r partner! i ntel lectual and sensual i nterests. There
wi l l also be the opportu n ity of an
encounter duri ng a journey or a move.

31
 Ven da tabl ets

The Mother The Son

and the Daughter and the Daughter
EARTH A N D A I R HAVE JOINED TOGETHER TO S I N C E AIR FANS F I R E , T H I S COMBINATION
PRODUCE A LIGHT, SLIGHTLY FRIVO LOUS D EMONSTRATES THE SPONTAN EITY A N D
ATMOSPH ERE; I N D EED, THERE IS A LACK OF ENTHUSIASM O F YOUTH B U T ALSO ITS
ENERGY AND MOTIVATION. IMPATIENCE, IMPETUOUSNESS, AND LACK OF
EXPERIENCE.
Omen
If there are no problems, there is no Omen
need for action. Don't ask you rself too You have enth usiasm, energy, and moti­
many questions, take good care of vation. You wi l l successfu l ly complete
you rself, and have a great time where you r project as long as you curb you r
you can. But watch you r tongue to enth usiasm, th ink before you act, and
make sure you do not give away you r see thi ngs in the longer term. In the
secrets! present situation noth ing is i m possible,
and there is no major problem. Time
I f you r question is about love wi l l work in you r favor:
Th i ngs that are i nteresting from a senti­
mental and sensual point of view are If you r question is about love
about to happen: an encounter; an You seem very excited and exh i larated
exchange or a l iaison, and perhaps also by someth ing or someone, or by a love
envy, jealousy, or gossip. Do not let affair that is just starti ng. Above all do
you rself be influenced by what others not spread you r feel i ngs too th i n ly. For
say, do not try to look l i ke somebody the moment, th is relationsh i p appears
else. Remain you rself Tlien you wi l l be to lack matu rity, but with time the situ­
appreciated. ation wi l l improve , and what you hope
for wi l l come true.

32
 Ven da tablets

The Father, The Father,

the Mother the Mother
and the Son and the D aughter
DISHARMONY! FIRE BU RNS T H E EARTH AND T H E PRESENCE OF AIR, T H E DAUGHTER, IN
WATER OVERFLOWS TO EXTI NGU ISH THE THIS COMBI NATION CREATES I NSTABILITY,
INFERNO . . . U NREST OR ARGU MENTS.

Omen Omen
Th i s com b i nation represents the This represents a relati onsh i p problem,
reth i n ki ng of a situation, .a d ream, an i l l u ­ a confrontation, a role reversal that
s i o n or an unconscious fear. B e carefu l ! d i m i n ishes legitimate power and h ierar­
Someone or someth ing seems t o b e chic authority or u psets the natu ral
rated too h ighly or, on t h e contrary, order of th ings. Before you can act it is
neglected. You must reassess the situa­ important that each person regai n his
tion more carefu l ly before you act or or her place, eq u i l i bri u m , or role.
start work on the project that you are
planni ng. If your question is about love
The situation is comp l i cated; you r feel­
If you r question is about love i ngs are confused, or the other person's
Tensions, arguments, frustration or a are vague. There is a lack of compre­
lack of clarity in the liaison . . . you r rela­ hension, an argument, an i ncident, a
tionsh i p appears u nbalanced, there are grain of sand that grates or, where
questions worryi ng you, or loneli ness applicable, the temporary halt or defin­
weighs heavily upon you. For the time itive end to a relationsh i p. Be clear­
bei ng, do not ask from the other per­ sighted about the other person and
son what you yourself are not capable yourself. For the time being do n ot take
of givi ng, but build on what already any decision; do not go any further than
exists. the situation req u i res.

33
 Venda tablets

The Father, The Mother,

the Son and the the Son and the
D aughter D aughter
FAN NED B Y THE W I N D, FIRE MAKES T H E EARTH, AIR AND F I R E . . . H E R E IS A D RY,
WATER BOI L, W H I C H WARMS A N D PURIFIES BRITTLE COMBINATION
THE AIR.
Omen
Omen Weakness, lack of honesty, d i s i l l usion, or
Th i s i s a very good d raw, part i c u l arly decepti o n ? S o m eth i ng o r someone is
from an i ntel lectual, relational, and spiri­ escap ing yo u , and for the moment you
tual p o i nt of vi ew, rather than a p u rely are n ot in co ntro l of events. Rem a i n
material ist one. Do n ot try and be l i ke clear-sighted a n d very carefu l i n yo u r
someone else; be true to yo u rself and relationshi ps.
fo l l ow you r own i ntuition.Th is will guide
you more rel iably than anyone else wi l l , If you r question is about love
and you r projects wi l l succeed. You have been abandoned, d i sappo i nt­
ed or offended and yo u r thoughts are
If you r question is about love gloo my. Yo u are m i ss i n g someth i n g o r
Yo u can, i n deed yo u m u st. h ave confi­ someone. Before y o u can su cceed yo u
dence i n you rself, yo u r fee l i ngs, and the must exam ine your conscience .You must
stre ngth of yo u r l ove . I d eas, p roj ects, appreciate and love you rself more . It is
friendshi ps, and encounters wi l l fiourish. o n ly o n th i s co n d ition that others wi l l
Yes, you wi l l be appreciated, people wi l l l ove yo u . Befo re anyth i n g e l s e , regai n
fol low you . . . a n d people will love you. yo u r auth o rity over you rself and exert
self-control.

34
 Venda tablets

The Father, the All the symb ols

Mother, the Son are hidden
and the D aughter THIS DRAW EXPRESSES A LACK OF EN ERGY
AND MOTIVATION, OR ENVY.
ALL FOUR ELEMENTS A R E GATHERED HERE.
THIS REPRESENTS PERFECT HARMONY WITH
Omen
EACH ELEMENT ADDING TO THE OTHERS. IT
The answer to you r question I S " no."
IS THE UNION OF LOVE AND KNOWLEDGE,
Yo u are moving in the wrong d i rection.
OF STRENGTH AND WISDOM.
You must rest you r body and m i n d i n
order t o recover you r strength . Assess
Omen the situation and review certain aspects
The answer to you r question 1s "yes, of you r projects. You wi l l make another
everyth i ng is fine and wi l l become even d raw of the oracle later.
better. You have d rawn the best possi­
ble combination ofVenda tablets! If you r question is about love
You r thoughts are complex, obscure
If you r question is about love and secret. You are h i d i ng someth i ng
You r feeli ngs are about to grow and from someone or more probably from
blossom, and the omen for a union is you rself. Un less you r questi on is no
favorabl e . If you are part of a couple, a longer relevant . . .
new phase is about to begi n . You r
bonds are becoming stronger, a n d sex­
ual ity and sensual ity are awakeni ng. For
the unattached, th is response presages
a future encounter . . .

3S
 Co n s u lti n g th e o racl e

1
Car ve or draw the names or symbols of the magic powers on
twenty flat stones, pieces of wood or, if not available, squares of card­
board.

2
Sit on the ground with the stones or pieces of wood, or sit at a
table with the cards.

3
Take the twenty stones, tablets or cards in your hand.

4
Ask the questioner to put the question either out loud or silently
If you are asking a question yourself, say it out loud.
If there is no particular question, you can interpret the oracle in a
general sense.

s
Put the stones or pieces of wood in a bag. If you are using cards, place
them on the table.

6
Take three symbols at random.
The first expresses your strengths.
The second reveals your weaknesses.
The third indicates the solution to the situation.

38
 The oracl e of Ancient Egypt

If you prefer to use the wheel below:

Put your finger on one of the numbered squares at random, then

count 9 squares in the direction of your choice, and finally write down
the number of the symbol found. Repeat the operation a second
time, then a third time in order to obtain the three symbols.

�
20 1
19 2
;··�!.·
18 3
17 4

16 s

lS 6

14 7
13 8
12
11
�
•
•

39
 I nte rp retati o n s

1 Osiris 2 Isis
Goo OF FERTILITY SISTER AND WIFE OF
AND GROWTH GODDESS AND MAGICIAN

Fi rst: Strengths Fi rst: Strengths

Yo u h ave a balan ced m i n d , s p i ritual You r positive attributes are compassion,
strength, and a sense of responsi bil ity and devotion, and gentleness. Like a mother
justice. In the image of Osiris, the father; cari ng for her children, you should look
you are a person others can rely on, and after those around you.
you have a certain authority.
Second: Weaknesses
Second: Weaknesses You do not feel really concerned by the
Osiris is a very positive sym bol and has situati o n , yo u r h e l p is not go i n g in the
no particular handicap or weaknesses. right d i recti o n , yo u lack perseveran ce,
or you are too possessive.
Thi rd: Solutions
Th is is a good omen since Osiris repre­ Third: Solutions
sents all that germinates, grows, and blos­ Love, sincerity and assistance to others.
soms.Yo u r proj ects wi l l be successfu l if You must th ink more about others than
you proceed with gentleness and firm­ about you rself Isis promises satisfaction,
ness and you trust you r own j udgment. especially if you r q uestion i nvolves a birth,
you r children or you r role as partner.

40
 The oracle of Ancient Egypt

3 Horus Bastet
T H E SON OF OSIRIS A N D ISIS, GODDESS OF DANCE A N D JOY,
THE EMBODIMENT OF POWER ON EARTH PROTECTOR OF THE HOME.

First: Strengths Fi rst: Strengths

Yo u r cou rage , yo u r charisma, and yo u r Bastet represents grace and beauty.Yo u r
mental power are stre ngths yo u can stre ngths are yo u r personal ity, yo u r
c o u nt on. Yo u are l iving up to yo u r fu l l enj oyment o f l ife , and you r abi l ity to fol­
potential. low you r i ntu ition.

Secon d: Weaknesses Second: Weaknesses

Be wary of any d e s i re fo r vengean ce , Guard against ind ifference, su perficial ity,
eccentri city, pass i o n o r aggressiveness anxiety, or sad ness wit hout reason.T here
because th i s wo u l d l ead to d i scord , a i s the risk of cutt i n g yo u rself off fro m
tense or com p l icated situation. the world or of losing i nterest i n it.

Thi rd: Solutions Th i rd: Solutions

Good o m e n . There i s a battle you wi l l You are protected, especially from a spir­
wi n , a recovery, a new fam i ly harmo ny, itual p o i nt of vi ew. C u rre nt p ro b l e m s
or the presence of a partner with unde­ wi l l d i sappear a n d pleasu re wi l l return . . .
niable charm! You wi l l make the most of it.

41
 The oracle of Ancient Egypt

S Th oth 6 Hathor
G O D OF KNOWLEDGE, T H E INVENTOR GODDESS OF LOVE
OF WRITING, PATRON OF SCRIBES. AND SENSUALITY

Fi rst: Strengths First: Strengths

Your intelligence and the way you Your charm and your ability to make the
express it through words are your main best of yourself are definite assets, but
assets.It is through study, respect for the you are also well-grounded.You know
law, and refiection that you will achieve what you want and what you don't want.
success.
Second: Weaknesses
Second: Weaknesses You are easily intimidated, you have an
You must guard against vanity and pride. inferiority complex, and you are indeci­
Talk no more than is necessary, unless sive.These traits could put you in a bad
people have judged you wrongly, or you position, unless they arise from your
have judged others wrongly. desire to live easily, in a relaxed manner;
one day at a time.
Thi rd: Solutions
This response is a favorable one, partic­ Thi rd: Solutions
ularly if your question is about studying An omen of blossoming and satisfaction,
or some other intellectual program. If especially in love.T here is pleasure in
you can be patient, for tune will smile store for you that you can share with
upon you and the unexpected will play others. Hathor is the goddess of sensu­
a beneficial role. ality ...

42
 The o r a c l e o f Ancient Egypt

7 N ep hthys 8 Ptah
WIFE OF SETH, SHE PARTICIPATES ARCHITECT OF T H E UN IVERSE,
IN THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD PATRON OF CRAFTSMEN AND SCULPTORS

Fi rst: Strengths Fi rst: Strengths

Your stren gt h lies in what cannot be Ingenuity, creativity, and dexterity are
seen. It is your sensitivity to people and your trump cards. This involves creating
situations , your reserve, your inner calm , something tangible, visible, and material.
and your silence that will guide you in You are on the way to constructing
the right direction. something.

Second: Weaknesses Second: Weaknesses

You have hidden fears or anxieties that Is it the refusal to accept responsibility,
you are unable to express. Do not be to contribute to the community, the fear
taken in by illusions and false hopes, of doing wrong , or of not being up to
because in your situation you know less things? Whatever the case may be , your
than you think! mind is not seeing things in a positive
light.
Th i rd: Solutions
A change cannot be made effectivelyT he Third: Solutions
situation is not clear. your intentions are Your situation will develop because your
vague , and the answers are still con­ mind is open to progress. You are going
cealed.You must learn to see the situa­ to build a solid foundation and make
tion more clearly progress, if you learn from the lessons
of the past and remember them.

43
 The o racl e o f Ancient Egypt

9 10
GUARDIAN OF TOMBS, RULER OF T H E DESERT
PATRON OF EMBALMERS AND OF DARKNESS

Fi rst: Strengths Fi rst: Strengths

You are protected by mysterious forces You are facing opposition, difficulties or
that guide you in the right direction in upsets. However it is not the others or
spite of the pitfalls and ambushes­ outside conditions that are the cause of
unless it is you who is acting as a guide your problems, but yourself!
to others.
Second: Weaknesses
Second: Weaknesses T here may be a jealous, envious person
You lack tact, diplomacy, and a sense of with bad intentions towards you, whose
humor; or you have taken a wrong turn. infiuence is harmful to you. Or perhaps
Someone is playing tricks on you. it is you who is jealous or envious.

Third: Solutions Third: Solutions

Movement, travel, and discoveries . . . Be T he project you are working on cannot
prepared for action even if it appears be carried out. You must question every­
difficult or uncer tain. Anubis will guide thing that no longer fits the present situ­
and protect you. ation. You must destroy in order to
rebuild on sounder; more solid founda­
tions.

44
 Th e oracle of Ancien t Egypt

11 Sirius 12 The Lotus

SACRED STAR WHOSE RISING ANNOUNCED IMAGE OF T H E BIRTH OF THE SUN
THE FLOODING OF THE NILE EMERGING BETWEEN ITS PETALS

Fi rst: Strengths First: Strengths

Sirius represents physical strength , T he lotus, the sacred flower of Egypt, is
endurance , a spirit of adventure , and the an invitation to meditation and spiritual
awareness of the importance of acting development. Your strength lies in the
for the com mon good.You want to uplift peaceful way in which you allow situa­
yourself and shine , which is a good sign. tions to unfold.

Second: Weaknesses Second:Weaknesses

Torn between obstinacy and sloppiness , Like your mind , your body is experienc­
between aggressiveness and submission , ing restlessness , anxiety, and nervous­
you are still searching for the right direc­ ness. You are withdrawing into yourself
tion. Watch out for physical and verbal and preventing your deep inner self from
violence , and don't let yourself be over­ expressing itself Guard against introver­
come by a persecution complex. Sion.

Third : Solutions Third : Solutions

T his is the sign of a sudden, unexpected It is only by relaxing your inner tension
change in the way you look at the situa­ and living a healthy lifestyle that you wi l l
tion.Take a longer view, stand back, and achieve your aims. Learn n o t t o worry,
open your mind to innovation. If you do learn to feel safe , and be reassured that
so you are sure to achieve success. in the end everything wil l be all right.

45
 The ora cle of Ancient Egypt

13 Th e Crook 14 Uraeus
SYMBOL OF PROTECTION,
and the Flail ASSOCIATED WITH THE SUN GOD
EMBLEMS OF THE PHARAOH'S AUTHORITY

Fi rst: Strengths Fi rst: Strengths

With discipline, a sense of leadership, and You are perceptive, skilful , and wise , and
natural authority, you have all you need this helps you to control events. Your
to change your situation. But perhaps strengths are considerable, and you
you are not aware of this? should be aware of this.

Second: Weaknesses Second: Weaknesses

You lack tolerance and forbearance, or Be carefui.You are playing against forces
you are using force to control or even stronger than you, you do not see the
dominate the situation, regulating the danger, you are pressed by time , or you
behavior of others. Don't try and do are overcome by passion.
everything yourself.
Third: Solutions
Third: Solutions For you it is all or nothing! If your inten­
A good omen for taking on responsibil­ tions are pure and devoid of selfishness,
ities or for making important decisions. you will achieve great success. On the
If you feel capable of it, accept a leading other hand, if you only act for yourself,
role; otherwise leave the command of you will fail.
operations to others.

46
 The ora cle of Ancient Egypt

IS The Solar 16 The Twins

CHOU, G O D OF T H E AIR, AND
Disc HIS SISTER AND WIFE TEFNOUT,
SYMBOL O F THE UPLIFTED SPIRIT
GODDESS OF THE CLOUDS

Fi rst: Strengths
Inspiration, wisdom, ideas to carry out . . . Fi rst: Strengths
You are trying to grow, to raise yourself You have many talents, especially regard­
up, or to develop a new lifestyle more ing associations, unions, and encounters.
in line with your deeper aspirations.This You work effectively as part of a team ,
is a good omen. enjoy family life , and adapt well to your
environment
Second: Weaknesses
Be careful , you are accepting certain Second: Weaknesses
ideas as if they were true without hav­ You have difficulties in expressing your
ing thought about them. Pause for a feelings , exchanging ideas , or being part
moment and look at the situation more of a group. Be careful not to be too self­
objectively Otherwise you will fail to see ish or too individualistic, otherwise you
the truth, and in the end you will be dis­ will remain an outsider.
appointed.
Third: Solutions
Third: Solutions An excellent omen for those who want
The aim is not to stabilize but to trans­ to join with others and harmonize their
form. The omen is excellent for starting relationships. You will achieve success , if
a project, traveling, and rising above dif­ you agree to become part of a group
ficulties.Your efforts will be crowned with or a couple.
success.

47
 Th e o r acle of Ancient E g ypt

17 The Sp hinx 18 Th e Sc arab

LION WITH A HUMAN HEAD, SYMBOL OF THE SUN GOD AT SUNRISE
BENEVOLENT GUARDIAN. AND, BY ASSOCIATION, OF THE PHARAOHS

First: Strengths Fi rst: Strengths

Patience is your main asset. Know how to T his symbol bodes well, if you are trying
wait for the right time to act and keep to change a situation, to start again from
what you feel to yourself . . . Silence is scratch, or to set off again on the right
golden! foot. T he scarab symbolizes a revival , a
renaissance.
Second: Weaknesses
You have committed an indiscretion , you Second:Weaknesses
have displayed indifference towards oth­ You have made a rather unwise change,
ers, a mystery must be solved, or perhaps you have been negligent, you have
something is happening behi nd your destroyed a situation, or you are feeling
back. resentful. Now you are face to face with
yourself.
Thi rd: Solutions
It is no use discussing things or arguing Third: Solutions
about them. For the time being, remain Changes in your lifestyle, an upheaval, or
discreet about your intentions, making a new departure may be in the offing.The
sure you keep your secrets to yourself. prospects are good for those who are
Observe, but say nothing. Only time will willing to live differently and to act in an
provide an answer to your questions. unconventional way

48
 Th e oracl e of Ancien t Eg ypt

19 The Pyramid 2 0 The Ankh

SYMBOL OF THE DEVELOPMENT THE CROSS OR KEY OF LIFE, THE
OF THE SOUL THROUGH TIME EMBODIMENT OF THE BREATH OF LIFE

Fi rst: Strengths Fi rst: Strengths

Seeing things in the long term, keeping a Living and loving . . . this is what this sym­
firm hold of the situation . .. this is what bol represents. All you have to do is live
you must do achieve your aim.T he objec­ for love, and love in order to live.
tive is not to transform things but to sta­
bilize and even strengthen them. Second:Weaknesses
You have rejected or neglected some­
Second: Weaknesses one, refused love or sought to find love
You have been negligent and happy-go­ without giving it.You have the key, but you
lucky, or you have tried to maintain the cannot find the keyhole! Now you must
status quo against all odds. Get out of pass through a narrow door.
your rut, even it feels comfortable.
Third: Solutions
Third: Solutions A beautiful omen! It speaks of an
A good omen provided that you stay encounter, blossoming sexuality, a warm
the course and try to build solid, lasting relationship, a marriage, and a birth.Your
bonds. Whatever the area concerned , friendships and romantic relationships
ever ything that relates to long-term will flourish.
prospects is favorable.

49
D u ri n g the i r med ita­
t i o n s , T i betan lamas
recite six syl lables,
each o n e beari n g a
fo rc e or

space; RA re p resents
powe r ; PA i s peac e ;
TSA i s destruction•
 Co n s u lti ng th e o racl e

1
Find a die.

2
Ask the question or have someone else ask it.

3
Close your eyes and meditate for a little while. Let thoughts flow into
your mind and let them flow out again as if they were j ust passing
through.

4
T hrow the die. M atch the number thrown with its syllable as
follows:
• •
• is AH e I. S RA
•
• is PA

• •
is TSA • •
. is NA : : is D H I
• • � . •_,

s
Throw the die again to obtain the second syllable.

6
Then read the image that corresponds to the combination of the
two syllables.This is the answer to your question.

S2
 Mo

AH RA PA

TSA NA DHI

Exam ple
• •
First throw: • e1 = TSA.

Second throw: = AH

�?
•

The answer to the question is: 'ts-f TSA A H .

,

Look at the TSA pages. There you will find the combination
TSA A H , "The white sunshade of good fortune."

S3
 I nte rp retati o n s

AH AH AH PA
THE CLEAR SKY THE MI LKY RAYS OF THE MOON

Like a cloudless, clear blue sky, your heart T he moon is rising, and a milky light is
must be absolutely pure and devoid of filling the night.This omen deals particu­
resentment, jealousy, or envy. Don't ask larly with love, sensati ons and feelings.
anything, don't play any role, just let things You must act gently and peacefully in
happen.Don't try to hold someone back areas that require tact or ar tistic skills.
or keep a situation from changing. In this T here will be no struggle; no radical deci­
way your projects will come to fruition. sion need be taken. Be tolerant and con­
Indeed, the answer to your question is ciliatory especially towards yourself.
"yes." Your health, your family, and your Learn how to reassure and appreciate
traveling are protected, and you need yourself. . . love yourself. In this way you
not fear any obstruction. will achieve well-being.

AH RA AH TSA
THE FLAMING RAYS OF THE SUN T H E SPARKLING STAR

When the rays of the sun appear; they Like the star; which shines for a long time,
clear the fog and bring out the colors of you must not waste your strength or
life.T he omen is good because the ques­ concern yourself with things that are not
tions you are asking yourself will be worth the trouble.T his omen is positive
answered, and confused situations will and par ticularly favors journeys and
become clear. There is no need to be m oving. It is not a question of seeing a
anxious, since your family, health, and tangible result in the im mediate future
friendships are protected.New paths are but of maintaining the right frame of
opening up, and your confidence is mind.Remain open to opportunities.You
returning, as is your clear-headedness. will succeed in your enterprise as long
You need fear no obstacle; rely on your as you are responsive , inquisitive and
own strengths, and you will succeed. adaptable.

S4
 Mo

AH NA
THE GROUND COVERED WITH GOLD

The earth produces magnificent fruits, if

you cultivate it with care .You will succeed
in your enterprise as long as you do not
expect immediate results. Give priority
to patience and steadfastness. Look at
the development of the situation in the
long term .Travel or impulsive actions are
not involved. Continue on your way with
determination, and a little later you will
reap what you have sown.

AH DHI
THE SPARKLING DIAMOND

It is not in the outside world that you

will find the answers to your questions
but deep within your own mind, which
must peaceful and serene. You must be
in agreement with yourself, your words
must follow· your thoughts and your
actions must follow your words. Then
everything will be all right.You will receive
good news, and you will achieve success.
T his omen is par ticularly favorable to
students, artists, and writers.

ss
 Mo

RA AH RA PA
THE SHINING LAMP THE DEMON OF DESTRUCTION

T he lamp radiates its light through the This omen is clearly unfavorable. Your
darkness and then makes it possible to mind is not pure, your thoughts are not
distinguish good from evil. For the healthy, and you are moving in the wrong
moment your mind is confused and in direction. H ere you are not trying to
the dark, and you cannot find a solution build but to destroy. T here is envy, jeal­
to your problems. Don't expect any help ousy, and resentment. If you do not
or encouragement-only you can clear change your frame of mind , you will not
the m ists so as to see the situation more get anywhere . All you will achieve will
clearly.This omen is favorable provided be the destruction of relationships or the
that you see people and things as they failure of your project. Don't let yourself
really are and not as you would like them be dragged downwards but aim high in
to be . . . an unbiased manner.

RA RA RA TSA
FAT ON THE FIRE THE ALL-POWERFUL KING

T his is a very favorable omen that This is an oracle of good omen for fling­
expresses joy and contentment. You will ing yourself into a fight, for acting force­
soon reach the objective that you are fully and with determination, because
pursuing, your desires will be satisfied , your strength is increasing. It will be
and you will shortly receive encourag­ advantageous to make decisions, accept
ing news. If you are sad, hide it, and if you responsibilities , or seek to acquire
are happy, show it. It is your enthusiasm , authority. It will be unfavorable to hesi­
the desire to share your j oy, and the tate, move backward, or avoid taking
need to make others happy that will lead risks. T he forces that are in you must be
to contentment. expressed, otherwise they will rapidly
diminish.

S6
 Mo

RA NA
THE UNWATERED TREE

A tree that is not watered produces no

fruit. T his image indicates that your mind
is not irrigated by good intentions.You
are influenced by someone, or perhaps
you are try i n g to imitate others. T his
means you are not fol lowing your own
path.T his is not good.As far as your ques­
tion is concerned, the prospects are dim.
Your wishes are confused, you are delud­
ing yourself, and you are pursuing a
dream. Can you ever reach it?

RA DHI
THE GATE TO FAVORABLE VISIONS

T his is a beautiful omen! Your mind is

turned towards that wh ich is positive. It
does not involve projects to be carried
out or decisions to be taken. It is your
imagination that wil l lead you on the road
to success. All you need to do is to visu­
alize your objectives, making them con­
crete in your mind, and they will become
a reality in your l ife. You will helped by a
kind person or a friend.

S7
 Mo

PA AH PA PA
THE JAR OF NECTAR THE OCEAN OF NECTAR

T he omen is favorable so long as you T he conditions are very favorable and,

make friends with peaceful, conscien­ like the ocean, your possibilities are
tious people whose relationship with numerous, almost endless. Material and
you is not based on force. You will bring professional areas are favorably situat­
your project to a successful conclusion, ed. It is the right time to ask for a raise
although it may not be as satisfactory as or a promotion or to invest money in
you might have expected at the begin­ an enterprise . On the other hand, the
ning. T his oracle is especially favorable if omen for romance is less favorable,
your question is about finances or friend­ because you are acting only for your own
ship. benefit.

PA RA
THE DRIED-UP SPRI NG
PA TSA
T his oracle speaks of pointlessness. Your T H E STORM
objectives do not measure up to your
powers, your mind is confused, and you T he wind is rising, and currents are rag­
are sad or disappointed, or you have a ing! T he omen is negative. Your mind is
very blinkered view of the situation.The tormented. You no longer see things
omen is rather discouraging, especially clearly, you are wrong about what oth­
concerning romance or friendship. ers are thinking, or you are dealing with
Change your way of looking at things, people with a bad influence on you who
be generous and disinterested, and judge and condemn you. For the
water will fl ow from the spring once moment, do not act and do not make
more. any decisions.Wait until you have recov­
ered your peace of mind before carry­
ing out your project.

S8
 Mo
•·

PA NA
THE GOLDEN LOTUS

T he lotus, the sacred flower of the Bud­

dhists , is an excellent omen.Your good
intentions are increasing , your situation
is becoming clearer, you are regaining
your strength, and the help you are given
is more effective. Your wishes will be
granted and, gradually, you will achieve
success and well-being. If your present
situation is not yet ver y good or ver y
stable , be confident that everything will
get better and better:

PA DHI
THE SOURCE O F HAPPINESS

:; ..r:

¥
The source of happiness exists .. . it is
within you. It is not "somewhere else"
or "later" that you will be happy, it is here
and now. If you appreciate what you
already have, if you do not try and cling
to someone or to a situation , and if , in
addition, you know that ever ything
comes to an end, good things as well as
bad , you will have found the source of
happiness.

S9
 Mo

T SA AH TSA PA
THE WHITE SUNSHADE PAPER IN THE WIND
OF GOOD FORTUNE
" How to catch a piece of paper that is
" Flowers always bloom at the right time." swept away by the wind? Who is capa­
Your questions, your fears, and your anx­ ble of doing that?" For the moment, you
ieties are without real foundation.Don't are not. Indeed, your mind is exposed
worry about the current situation. Every­ to all weathers, shaken by a thousand
thing needs time to mature and devel­ impressions, and influenced by evil peo­
op, and it is no good trying to speed ple. You cannot reach the objective you
things up.There is neither a decision to have set yourself because it does not
be made nor any energetic action to be suit you. A separation is likely
taken; take your time and live only in the
moment.

TSA TSA
TSA RA THE GLORIOUS BANNER
THE SWORD OF FLAME
T he situation you are finding yourself in
You have numerous talents, in particular is good, and the time has come to
great powers of persuasion.T he omen express your potentiai.Action is a source
is favorable, and your projects will be sue­ of success.The omen is good for visiting,
cessful as long as you use these powers. traveling, or moving. Look for social suc­
N ow is a good time for knocking on cess, renown, or the announcement of
doors, declaring your love, expressing r
happ ews such as a marriage or a
your desires, taking decisions, and arm­ birth..
ing yourself for a fight. You have the
power to influence events, so use it.

60
 Mo

T SA NA
THE TREE STRUCK BY LIGHTNING

The omen you have drawn is not favor­

able. It involves obstruction, difficulties
that cannot easily be surmounted. The
situation is not to your advantage.There
are tensions around you, and your part­
ner does not understand you.Your mind
is confused, and your heart is heavy. Do
not continue with your project in this
condition. Don't compound m atters;
examine your own mistakes before crit­
icizing others.

T SA DHI
THE HOUSE OF
GOOD NEWS

You are reaching the top of the moun­

tain, and you can see the house of good
news.This is a very favorable omen , your
wishes will be granted, your work will
be done, and your romantic attachments
will get stronger. Look no fur ther than
what is within your reach, and be pre­
pared to welcome this good news.

61
 Mo

NA AH NA PA
THE MOUNTAIN OF GOLD THE JEWELED SHIP

T he mountain of gold symbolizes stabil­ This is a very favorable oracle , synony­

ity. If your question is about a social posi­ mous with prosperity.Your frame of mind
tion, it will be secure, if it is about a is positive , and this promises well-being
romantic relationship, it will be a faithful and satisfaction. Expect material riches,
one, and if it is about financial gain, it will pleasure , and happy moments to share.
be considerable. Your decisions must be The soil is fertile , and there is no enemy
firm and your mind resolute. There is to be feared. For the moment, appreciate
nothing you have to change; your men­ what you have, and do not try continu­
tal stability will lead to success. ally to increase your possessions.You will
simply secure what is yours by right.

NA RA
THE DEMON OF DESIRE
NA TSA
Your mind is ruled by demons. You are T H E MOUNTAIN OF SA
driven by envy, a desire for power, sexu­
al passion , or the need to accumulate You are like a mountain of sand, high per­
material possessions. In Buddhist philos­ haps but definitely unstable.AII the more
ophy this can only lead to mistakes, mis­ so now that the wind is blowing. T he
takes for which you must now pay.As you omen involves a reduction or a deterio­
only have your own interests at hear t , ration. Your relationships are crumbling,
you behave selfishly, you build barriers, your position is weakening, your savings
and you are facing obstacles that you are dwindling , or you are putting your­
have created yourself. self down. The oracle is rather negative.
You have made bad choices or you are
following a course that is not right for
you. Reappraise yourprojects or, better
still, reappraise yourself.

62
 Mo

NA NA
THE RED CASTLE

Whether it be a romantic relationship

or a social position, you are in the
process of building something, and you
are going in the right direction. T he ora­
cle is positive for acquiring money or
influence and enriching love and friend­
ship , but it is unfavorable for traveling ,
leaving a job or asking for help from your
superiors. Perseverance and effort will
help you achieve your objective.

NA DHI
THE TREASURE

Drawing the NA D HI oracle is like open­

ing a treasure chest. It speaks of satisfac­
tion and success. Your efforts will pay off,
your projects are placed under favor­
able auspices, and you will obtain excel­
lent results. Do not give in to impatience ,
do not focus on a single point but remain
confident and calm.Then you will be able
to open the treasure chest . . .

63
 Mo

DHI AH
THE WAY O F BUDDHA
2g DHI PA
THE LUMINOUS FISH

Following the way of Buddha is to under­ T his oracle speaks of mental and physical
stand that nothing is forever. that noth­ agility. Like the fish that moves easily in
ing can ever be taken for granted. It the ocean, your mind must be sharp,
means not trying to cling to things out aler t, and receptive to the signals sent
of fear of losing them. On the contrary out to you.Here the omen is positive in
you must let yourself go with the flow all fields as long as you do not upset any­
of life and live for the moment. Follow­ one and remain flexible and diplomatic.
ing the way of Buddha means never judg­ Be careful not to lie to yourself
ing or criticizing other people or yourself
In this way you will achieve great suc­
cess, and your wishes will be granted.

DHI TSA
PLEASANT MUSIC
DHI RA
THE FLOWER GARDEN T his oracle is a good omen.You will hear
pleasant voices and sweet sounds of
This oracle speaks of beauty, pleasure, music . T his voice may be that of your
and love. It is particularly auspicious for beloved who fulfils your expectations
relationships.Your intentions are good; or that of a superior who talks to you
you are looking for union and harmony. with kindness.T here is good news com­
You have every chance of achieving your ing your way. T he oracle is par ticularly
objective provided you do exactly what positive about ever ything concerning
you want. Follow your intuition. Learn study, writing, communication , foreign
how to speak to yourself and listen to languages, and exchanges of ideas.
yourself T hen you will be able to enter
the flower garden.

64
 Mo

DHI NA
THE CHARIOT'S WHEEL
�g
T he wheel goes round , the chariot is
advancing, and situations are developing.
T he omen is positive.You will achieve your
aim but not immediately. because you have
not yet reached the end of the journey.
Some relationships still need to be har­
monized; there is still work to be done
and adjustments to be made. Do not focus
on the present. but look at the develop­
ment of the situation in the long term.
Persevere and you will achieve success a
little later on.

DHI DHI
THE VICTORIOUS STANDARD

��
�
Trumpets are resounding as you raise
the standard of victory!The omen is very
positive, but you must still fight or place
yourself under the protection of some­ ��
c.._ ·�
one in power: T hen you will overcome
ever y obstacle and win through. On a
more personal level, you will gather
around you all the people you love.You
have all the assets to succeed, now it is up
to you to move towards your objective.

65
 S i n c e t i m e i m m e m o ri al Arab
soothsaye rs have p racticed
geoman cy, the art of readi n g the
signs of man's fut u re i n the sand
of the desert. Thi s m ethod of
d ivi nat i o n i s d e s c r i b e d in The

Darb Th ousand and One Nights: "The

magic ian wanted to find out the
d etai l s of Alad d i n 's d e ath. He

er-Raml pul led out the divi n i ng sand table

from the bac k of a c u p board , sat
on a square mat in the m i d d l e of
The oracle a c i rc l e d rawn in red , sm oothed
of the s and down the sand, arranged the male
and fe male p o i nts, m u ttered
ge omantic fo r m u lae, and sai d :
" Let us see, O sand , l et us see! And
how did he die, this sc o u n d re l
Aladdin?" A s h e said these words,
he shook the sand acc o rd i n g to
the ritual . Then all of a sudden the
pictu res appeared . . . "
 Co n s u lti ng th e o racl e

l
If you have some sand or soil near you, take a wooden stick and
use it to mark the boundar y of the space in which you will ques­
tion the oracle. Otherwise take a pencil and a piece of paper.

2
Ask for silence . Concentrate , then ask the question yourself or
have someone else ask the question, out loud or silently.

3
Using the wooden stick, draw a row of small vertical strokes in the
sand at random, without counting them. Alternatively use the pen­
cil and draw the vertical strokes on the paper in the same way.

4
Repeat the operation another three times, arranging the rows
below one other.

s
Write the number of strokes next to each row. If the number is even,
draw a rod; if it is uneven, draw a dot.

Exam ple

1 4 strokes: ___.,
Answer to your question:
6 strokes: ___., ei-Bayod,
"whiteness."
9 strokes: •

8 strokes: ___.,

68
 D arb er- Raml . the oracle of t h e sand

6
Read the interpretation corresponding to the picture made by the
lines and dots obtained .

• •
• • •
• • •
• •

l • El-Tariq 2 • El-Jamaa 3 • E 1 - Naj ah 4 • E l - H aou1

• # •
# •

• #

• # •

S • E l - La tata 6 • E 1 - Q ouwa 7 • E s - Saada 8 • E1- Maj d

#
9 • E1- Bayad lO • E1- Houmra ll • E s - Soumou 12 • E s - S ouqout

) ,

, ,
, #
, •
13 • Er- Ribh 14 • E 1 - Khousara 1S • E1- Liqa 1 6 · E 1 - 0 qda

69
 I nte rp retati o n s

1 El-Tariq • 2 El-Jamaa
THE WAY • T H E GATHERING

Sym bol Symbol

EI-Tariq is like fire suddenly bursting out. T his figure represents rich, dense, fertile
It is a way, a road, or a runway. Its nature soil. It shows a gathering, a group or a
is masculine, impulsive, spontaneous, crowd. It represents anonymity, depend­
direct, and undisciplined. ence, passiveness, and receptivity.

Meani ng
Meaning EI-Jamaa announces instability and tur­
T his figure describes the road along moil. You are surrounded by a thick fog
which you are progressing. Soon things and filled with a multitude of impres­
will change, and new situations will shake sions and feelings. For the moment, there
up your routines. There could be jour­ is not yet any clear path; ever ything is
neys, separation, detachment liberation possible.
or newly found independence.
Attitude to adopt
In this confusion you must remain lucid,
Attitude to adopt separate the true from the false and
Be ready to take a trip, to act on your make up your own mind. Do not look
own, or to cast off old habits. for independence but join forces, coop­
erate, share.
If you r question asks for a "yes" or "no"
an swe r: This reading is favorable but If you r question asks for a "yes" or"no"
does not provide a "yes" or "no" answer. answe r: This reading is favorable but
does not provide a "yes" or "no" answer.

70
 D arb e r - Raml , t h e o r a c l e of t h e s a n d

..... II
II II
II II
3 El-Naj ah 4 E l - H aoul
SuccEss II THE FALL

Symbol Symbol
EI-Naj ah symbolizes spring water, pure H ere is a smoldering fi re that slowly
and fresh. It promises ascent, uplift, destroys. Expect a fall, separation, dis­
benevolence, honesty, and legitimacy cord, immorality, selfishness, laxity, jeal­
ousy, secrecy, and lies.
Meani ng
This figure represents something that is Mean ing
starting, progressing and developing. It is This fi gure means decline. N egative
a picture of good omen, indicating that forces are bubbling up the surface. You
a beneficial change is about to take place. are faced with illusion, danger, and con­
Worries are now a thing of the past; flict. It also represents the world of
everything is moving towards improve­ duplicity, false promises, and rumors.
ment and greater awareness.
Attitude to adopt
Att� to adopt This destructive picture is not all bad.
You should follow your intuition, open up Indeed this destruction, this change in
to someone else or other people with­ your frame of mind, will enable you to
out fearing criticism and jealousy Then start again from scratch or to understand
your hopes will be rewarded with suc­ the reasons behind a failure.
cess.
If you r q uestion requ i res a "yes" or"no"
If you r question must be answered by answer: T he answer is "no."
a yes or no: This picture replies "yes," of
course!

7l
 D a r b e r - R a m l . t h e o r a c l e o t t h e s a n d.

S El- Latafa 6 El- Q ouwa

SWEETNESS STRENGTH

Symbol Symbol
T his figure represents fresh air. light and T his figure represents explosive fire. It
soft. It expresses youth, elegance, affec­ expresses combat, struggle, rebellion,
tion, sensuality, ar t. and beauty in all its instinct, virility, violence, anger. jealousy.
forms. and indulgence in sensual pleasure.

Mean ing Mean ing

EI- Latafa promises love, pleasure. cheer­ EI-Qouwa indicates enthusiasm and the
fulness. and a relaxed way of life. It fore­ need to dominate, which will lead to
tells good times, especially in the field of action. You will feel an increase in
creativity and romance. strength. but don't allow it to degener­
ate into aggressiveness and rebellion.
Attitude to adopt
Learn to live in the present and enj oy Attitude to adopt
the opportunities that life offers you, but You must have freedom at any cost. But
guard against thoughtlessness and care­ be careful: you must guard against excess
lessness. and go no fur ther than the situation
demands.
If you r question req u i res a "yes" or"no"
answe r : T his reading is favorable but If you r question requ i res a "yes" or"no"
does not provide a "yes" or "no" answer: answer: T he answer is "no."

72
 D a rb e r - Ra m l , t h e o r a c l e o f t h e s a n d

II
II

II
7 E s - Saada 8 E l - Maj d
HAPPINESS II GLORY

Symbol Symbol
Es-Saada depicts fertile, cultivated soil. It EI-Majd depicts a clear; lively fire but one
expresses harmony, fl owering, stability, that is shor t- lived if it is not constantly
success, honor; expansion, ambition, con­ fanned. It expresses fragile happiness ,
trol, attraction, and fame. transitory success, celebrity and the crit­
icism it entails, and ruthless ambition . . .
Meani ng the ephemeral quality of fame.
T his figure denotes the fulfillment of
wishes, satisfaction, reward for your Mean ing
efforts , the success of your enterprise , T his figure refers to a passing opportu­
and deserved recognition. nity that must be seized as it presents
itself It represents success, but an isolat­
Attitude to adopt ed success without any decisive impact
Seize al l the opportunities that present on the direction of your life.
themselves , favoring honesty and gen­
erosity. Good for tune wil l smile upon Attitude to adopt
you, your projects wil l be successful , and Act, be bold and ambitious, but don't let
you wil l experience happiness. success go to your head.T his is just a
stage. It may not last.
If you r question req u i res a "yes" or"no"
answer: T his response is the best there If you r question req u i res a "yes" or"no"
is, and the answer is of course "yes!" answer: T his figure provides a qualified
"yes."

�' ,
73
 Darb er- Ram l , the oracle of the sand

9 · El- Bayad 10 El- Houmra

WHITENESS REDNESS

Symbol Symbol
This figure represents fine , light earth. It T his figure represents stagnant water: It
expresses transparency, purity, inno­ warns of danger, passion , lack of disci­
cence, serenity, chastity, spirituality, indul­ pline, upheaval , impulsiveness , temerity,
gence, and tolerance. vanity, excessive sensitivity, aggressive­
ness, and criticism.
Meani ng
The idea contained in this figure is clari­ Meani ng
ty and contentment. It is about simple Sudden outbursts , conflicts, rebellion . ..
happiness, the search for truth , clear the fire of passion is devouring you.What
ideas, and healing. has been stagnant for too long must now
progress or disappear:
Attitude to adopt
Be ready to listen, to help others, and to Attitude to adopt
moderate your appetites. Avoid being You must make things develop , trans­
impulsive or passionate.Try to resolve form them, reappraise them , and allow
conflicts and find a kind of innocence in your impulsiveness to express itself. Get
simplicity. rid of what you can no longer bear: Act
with courage , even at the risk of shock­
If you r question requ i res a "yes" or"no" ing those around you.
answer: This response should be prob­
ably be taken as "yes." If you r question requ i res a "yes" or"no"
answer: T his response should be prob­
ably be taken as "no."

74
 D arb e r - R a m l . t h e o r a c l e of t h e s a n d

ll E s - Soumou �--.....-
12 E s - Souqout
THE ASCENT THE REVERSED

Symbol Symbol
This is a picture of warm air rising. It T his fi gure refers to the heaviness of
expresses success, fame, protection, for­ ear th and expresses melancholy, dis­
tune, power, honors , gratitude, growth , couragement, renunciation, lassitude ,
and development. fear, dark, negative thoughts, scruples,
regrets, and isolation.
Meaning
The idea contained in this figure is good­ Mean ing
ness in all its manifestations. Joie de vivre, The idea contained here is sadness and
optimism, good health and the like . . . it lack of motivation. There is hostility or
is a very positive draw that promises sat­ withdrawal on the part of people around
isfaction. you. You are faced with problems that
trouble you and to which you see no
Attitude to adopt solution.
T his result foretells success through dis­
cipline , work, and good will. Your Attitude to adopt
thoughts are positive and constructive , Your troubles arise from the fear of doing
and they will lead you to success. wrong or not measuring up. Don't brood
over your problems, don't let them affect
If you r q uestion must be answered with those around you , and don't think the
a "yes" or a "no": The answer is an worst of situations. T his sadness wants
emphatic "yes." only to disappear.

If you r question must be answered with

a "yes" or a "no": T his figure says "no."

7S
 D a rb e r - R a m l . t h e o r a c l e o f t h e s a n d

13 Er- Rib h 14 E1- Khousara

ACQUISITION Loss

Symbol Symbol
T his figure symbolizes the water of the This results pictures cold air that blows
oceans and r i vers and represents hard. It suggests running away from
increase . growth. fer tility. abundance , things. lack of foresight. fickleness. insta­
generosity. ambition, benevolence, and bility. injustice , and deception.
moral sense.
Meani ng
Meaning You are faced with diminish ment and
Er- Ribh heralds improvement. Financial constraint.You may lose all that you own ,
acquisitions. financial investment. pur­ flee from a situation, squander gains, or
chases. and profits: in particular it involves be clumsy towards others. A relati on­
mater ial enr ichment. It is a phase of ship is losing meaning; a person or situa­
progress and development. tion is escaping you.

Attitude to adopt Attitude to adopt

T he time is favorable if you remain hon­ In this unfavorable situation, you will be
est and sincere. Be careful not to deni­ misunderstood, and your enterprise may
grate anyone. to judge others falsely. or be doomed to fail. You must get an idea
to keep for yourself alone the benefit you out of your mind or get rid of someone ,
may gain from the situation. reconsider the situation, and regain your
confidence. T hen you can start again.
If you r question must be answered with
a "yes" or a "no": T he answer is "yes." If you question must be answered with
a "yes" or a "no": The answer is "no."

'
76
 D arb e r - Ra m l . t h e o r a c l e of t h e s a n d

•
lS El- Liqa 16 El - O qda
THE ENCOUNTER LIMITATION

Symbol Sym bol

This fi gure represents rainwater and This figure conjures up air filled with mist
expresses what is suddenly brought and expresses immobilization, difficulties,
together, either in partnership or in isolation, work, responsibilities, pru­
opposition. It speaks of an agreement dence, and duty.
or a disagreement, a duality, or a change
of opinion. Mean ing
Expect solitude, whether deliberate or
Mean ing unintentional, a temporary difficulty that
Depending on your situation, look for forces you to stabilize the situation or
an encounter; a rendezvous, an exchange stand your ground. E I-Oqda indicates
of ideas or; on the other hand, tension restrictions, an obstacle that must be
and confrontation. overcome, a task that must be accom­
plished, or work that requires persever­
Attitude to adopt ance and concentration.
Be open to others, try and communicate.
Be aware that everything that aims to Attitude to adopt
bring people together; to get to know You seem unable to get the situation to
others better; is positive, but don't rule evolve. Indeed, to do so requires time,
out unforeseen circumstances! effort, and sacrifices. M ove forward on
this craggy path with patience and deter­
If you r question must be answered with mination. Soon the way will become
a "yes" or a "no": This reading is favor­ smoother:
able but does not provide a "yes" or" no"
answer: If you r question must be answered with
a "yes" or "no": The answer is "no."

77
 Read i ng th e tarot card s

Choose a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. You should
be aware that it is preferable to read the Tarot for someone else
rather than yourself The cards described here are the twenty-two
trumps making up the major arcana. The fifty-six other cards, the
minor arcana, are not dealt with here.

• If you have a set of Tarot cards, shuffl e them, ask the other per­
son to cut the cards with their left hand, spread the cards face
down in an arc of a circle, and then to choose three cards.
• If you do not have a set of Tarot cards, use the fol lowi ng method:

l
Choose three numbers between I I and 2 1 and write them down.

2
Put your finger on one of the twenty-two cards at random and
count the first number you chose, clockwise or counterclockwise
as you wish, round the circle of cards.This gives you your first card:
write its name down.

3
Put your finger on the card you have landed on and count the sec­
and number you chose, round the circle of cards, again clockwise
or counterclockwise as you wish. This will give you a second card:
write its name down.

4
Repeat the operation with the third number to obtain the third card.

You have now identified three cards.

The first card talks about the situation, the assets, and the hopes
of the questioner.

80
 The tarot

The secon d card talks about conditions external to the question­

er, about other people, and the handicaps and the obstacles that
the questioner may encounter.

The third card is the result. It gives the message, what lies in store,
and the answer to the question.

XXII I II
XXI III
XX IIII
XVIII I
v
XVIII VI

XVII VII

XVI VIII
XV VIIII
XIIII X
XIII XII XI

81
 I nte rp retati o n s

I The Magician
A DYNAMIC, ENTERPRISING YOUNG MAN
WITH ALL THE OPPORTUNITIES OF SUCCESS
IN HIS HANDS

Symbol As the second ca rd

The M agician announces new begin­ There is nothin g to fear except for a
nings , encounters , opportunities, or slight lack of co ncentration , indecision ,
another path to follow. and confusion b� cause the situation is
not as clear as yo u think.T here is duplic­
As the first card ity, lying and gra ndstanding on the part
You are full of initiative and joie de vivre. of others.
You want to change things, to find things
out, and to experiment. Your assets are As the thi rd card
your enthusiasm , ambition, health , vitali­ You can be confident. Something is about
ty, and creativity, and your ability to adapt to start, and it is very positive: a pleasant
to new situations. surprise , a rom antic encounter, easy
com munication, cw creativity in work. Be
optimistic, brave , and bold; follow your
im pul ses and tak � decisions or risks. You
can have an influen ce on events and else­
where. It is up to you to set things in
motion.

82
 Th e t a r o t

II Th e
High Prie stess
A WOMAN O N WHOM YOU CAN RELY.
WISE, ERUDITE, AND PEACEFUL, SHE IS A
RELIABLE GUI DE.

Symbol As the second card

Shy, secretive, and undemonstrative , the T here is nothing serious to fear except
High Priestess promises lasting good for­ for some delays , a little coolness, and a
tune as long as things are not rushed. lack of enthusiasm and imagination. Feel­
ings are hidden and not easily expressed.
As the fi rst card T here is a task that requires patience and
You calmly await developments. You determination.
know things will happen gradually and
lead you to success. Maternal or conju­ As the thi rd card
gal love may be involved.You may have The situation will develop slowly but
a task to perform or something to teach surelyT here will be preparatory work, an
others. initiation , a peaceful and faithful union , a
realization , a pregnancy or an appren­
ticeship. You will benefit from the help
of someone older than you. Be patient,
honest, and intuitive. Don't overanalyze;
listen to yourself

83
 The tarot

III The Empre s s

SMILING AND WELL-SITUATED, THE EMPRESS
RULES OVER THE INTELLECTUAL WORLD
AND DOMINATES THE MALE SEX.

Symbol As the second card

T he Empress rules with an iron fist in a If you are a woman you may dominate
vel vet glove . your par tner or put your ambition
before your emotions. If you are a man,
As the fi rst card you are submissive to female influence ,
Determined and ambitious, you want to sexually and emotionally dependent.
bring an important project to a success­
ful conclusion and develop intellectually As the th i rd card
or materially. This card is more spiritual Success is certain if you stand firm, take
than sentimental, making you lucid and decisions and act on them. There is the
dynamic. Remain independent and dominant influence of a woman (moth­
truthful in all circumstances. er; wife . . . ), material progress, social pro­
motion, academic success, marriage, and
pregnancy. You are promised success,
expansion, and creativity.

84
 The The tarot

IIII The Emperor

THE EMPEROR KNOWS WHAT HE WANTS.
WITH KINGLY AUTHORITY HE DOMINATES
THE SITUATION.

Symbol As the second card

Male energy, power. and virility. H e has Be careful not to be d omineering , nar­
an authoritarian character but is also a row-minded, brusque , or intransigent. A
protector: little flexibility, delicacy, and diplomacy
would not go amiss. Otherwise people
As the fi rst card might resent your power and rebel. Pos­
This card deals with ambition, power. and sibly a man (father. husband , boss . . . ) is
energy. You have the strength and deter­ overshadowing you or restricting you.
mination to make the situation develop,
make a conquest. and achieve a tangible As the third card
result. An impor tant decision must be Success is cer tain , if passion does not
taken, but it is up to you to channel your take precedence over reason. This card
energies , gather people together. and speaks of riches, health , good news, sta­
guide them. bility, and responsibilities. Show respect
for established customs , look for the sup­
por t of an influential person , make a
decision but remain honest. loyal , and
law-abiding.

8S
 The tarot

V The Pop e
THE POPE IS OLD AND WISE; HE HAS
EXPERI ENCE OF THINGS AND OF PEOPLE. HE
IS A HELP AND A SUPPORT.

Symbol As the second card

T he Pope possesses integrity, patience, There are no pitfalls to be afraid of, apart
and balance. He sets an example that you from a few delays, some inertia or lazi­
can follow. ness. Do not be intolerant and, in par­
ticular; do not hold grudges.You must find
As the fi rst card common ground, remain h onest, be
Your assets include inspiration, wisdom, loyal, set an example, forgive, and accept
kindness, and generosity. It is a matter of forgiveness.
sharing your experience, giving guidance
and being interested in others in order to As the third card
help them and encourage them to devel­ Do not look for immediate success. It is
op. Your role is to patiently pass on your guaranteed as long as you j oin forces
knowledge. with others, concentrate on the essen­
tial, and guard against impatience , vio­
lence and temptation. You are close to
achieving equilibrium, a new stability if
you listen to what people are trying to
tell you. Conciliation, help, and leniency
will lead to success.

86
 The tarot

VI The Lover
H E HESITATES, HE WAVERS . . .
WHICH WAY WILL H E CHOOSE?

Symbol As the second card

T he Lover stands at a crossroads. He is Look out for infidelity, fickleness, and
tempted by ease , beauty, and infidelity. indecision.You are dealing with a deceit­
ful person , an ambiguous situation, a
As the fi rst card promise not kept and jealousy. Perhaps
T his card speaks of a friendship, an asso­ you lack maturity or are giving in to ease
ciation, an encounter; a relationship or a and carelessness.
union. But it might also augur a separa­
tion.You are at a crossroads, and you are As the th i rd card
torn between the promise of pleasure Here you are on the threshold of a love
and the voice of reason , between hap­ story or an association. Everything will go
piness stretching its arms towards you smoothly, if you make an immediate
and the illusions of happiness. In other choice, if you are honest towards the
words , you do not know which way to other person but also towards yourself
turn .. . But be aware that the best way will be
the most difficult the one that demands
effort.

87
 The tarot

VII The Chariot

THIS YOUNG MAN, WHO SITS MAJESTICALLY
ON HIS CHARIOT, IS ON THE ROAD TO
VICTORY

Symbol As the second card

The Chariot heralds a battle to be The Chariot is a very positive card, and
fought a bold venture to be undertak­ you have nothing to fear; apart perhaps
en, a positive change, or a journey from a little overwork, stress, too much
ambition, confidence in yourself or opti­
As the fi rst card mism that might blind you.
You have the dynamism , vitality, and
enthusiasm necessary to achieve success As the th i rd card
in your endeavors as well as control of T he Chariot replies "yes!" You will
yourself and therefore of events. T he achieve success , overcome obstacles,
Chariot speaks of movement progress, and progress along your chosen path. It
and realization . . . this is certainly a good predicts a rewarding journey, an
start! encounter; a marriage , a cure, progress,
a promotion, an unexpected change, or
an end to deadlock. A battle must be
fought but the result will justify your
efforts.

88
 The tarot

VIII Justic e
ARMED WITH SWORD AND SCALES, jUSTICE
WEIGHS THE PROS AND CONS. WHICH WAY
WILL THE SCALES TIP1

Symbol As the second card

Justice speaks of an equilibrium that must Justice as the second card underlines a
be found or maintained, a discipline to be problem that may be of a social or sen­
followed, or a just reward. timental nature, unless you are the vic­
tim of injustice or have committed an
As the fi rst card error of judgment.
This card prompts you to put your life
in order, see the various aspects of the As the third card
problem and differentiate good from Justice predicts a reward, a period of
evil. A period of harmony is coming. peace and stability, a new relationship ,
There may be an encounter, but before marriage , a wanted pregnancy, the pur­
this happens you must impartially look chase of a house , or academic success.
at your own fa.ults and qualities and those It is time to make a dramatic decision and
of others. view the situation in a more practical
way. Guard against passion and uncon­
trolled desires , and ever ything will be
well.

89
 The tarot

VIIII The Hermit

THE HERMIT MAY BE OLD BUT HE IS WISE!
ALONE, HE WALKS SLOWLY IN SEARCH OF
TRUTH.

Symbol As the second card

Reflection, meditation, modesty, and pru­ Is it pride, selfishness or sadness? What­
dence are the attributes of the Hermit. ever it may be, you seem to be distrust­
T ime is his master: ful, your health is suffering, and either a
relationship no longer satisfies you or a
As the fi rst card job no longer makes you happy. You
You need time for solitude and self­ know you must change things, but for the
examination. You are searching for an moment you are turning inwards.
i deal, for the essential. You have a ten­
dency to cut yourself off from the mate­ As the thi rd card
rial world and to look inside yourself for Do not look here if you are in search of
the answers to your questions. You are public success, passion or immediate sat­
hiding your own value or avoiding con­ isfaction. The Hermit asks you to stand
tact with others. back , take the time to think , listen to oth­
ers, and to give good advice. If you per­
severe , if you are loyal, patient and
prudent you will go far: Soon an impor­
tant aspect of the situation will be
revealed , and you will discover another
facet of yourself

90
 The tarot

X The Wheel of
Fortune
IT'S A LOTTERY! IT GOES UP, IT GOES
DOWN . . . THE WHEEL GOES ROUND!

Symbol As the second card

T his card represents life with its ups and T here is an obstacle, a pitfall, or a weak­
downs, the eternal alternation of the ness that is delaying you. You have the
positive and the negative. impression of stagnating or regressing.
You are shaken by unexpected news or
As the fi rst card circumstances that are not yet favorable.
You seem to be irritated, excited, and
shaken up. Your life is fast-paced and ever As the th i rd card
changing, and your situation is unstable. A new deal, a new cycle . . . there is going
You are beginning a new chapter in your to be a change. If you were at "the top,"
life.You are trying to develop, to move on you may expect to fall down, while if you
to something else, or to behave differ­ were at "the bottom," be prepared to
ently climb back up. T his can be a time of
progress, an opportunity, a happy coin­
cidence, the end of your problems. Lazi­
ness and thoughtlessness would cause
your ruin; only effort and determination
will enable you to act.

91
 The tarot

XI Strength
A PRETTY WOMAN OVERCOMES THE
SAVAGE, DESTRUCTIVE INSTINCTS OF A
LION. SHE RULES ITS PASSIONS.

Symbol As the second card

T his figure represents inner strength, that Pride, selfi shness, and incomprehen­
which gives you victory over yourself and sion . . . you lack gentleness, sensitiveness,
consequently over events. and perhaps love. You are impatient, too
ambitious or bad ly equipped to face the
As the fi rst card problems that might arise. Guard against
You want to obtain something that laziness but also stress.
appears difficult at first sight. T here is a
conquest that must be made, a compe­ As the th i rd card
tition, a beautiful ambition or a noble A beautiful omen for the future! It pre­
cause that must be defended . In this dicts an encounter; a union, an engage­
quest your best assets are activity, vitali­ ment , an imminent marriage , a bir th,
ty, and independence, but especial ly the academic honors, a promotion , com­
courage that will enable you to face all mercial success , the winning of a com­
your problems. petition, an exciting project. Act on your
own, be determined and methodical , and
you will succeed because your heart is
pure.

92
 The tarot

XII The Hanged

Man
THIS IS A VERY UNCOMFORTABLE
POSITION . . . YET THE HANGED MAN
APPEARS AT EASE, RELAXED, AND SERENE.

Sym bol As the second card

The Hanged Man heralds a transition, a You are experiencing sadness, remorse ,
kind of suspended animation that will bitterness or obstacles.A project is being
allow your projects to ripen.. called into question, feelings of love are
not shared, and a break-up, either tem­
As the fi rst card porary or final , is in the air. Unless you
You are completely undecided.You have refuse to accept the situation or reject
chosen a different path from others, one the break that appears to be inevitable?
that is more difficult because you are
looking for truth, for an ideal in life. Self­ As the th i rd card
less and badly equipped for the fight and You are going through a transitional
challenge of competition, you feel alone, phase . Therefore , stand back, remain
misunderstood, and powerless, and you calm and patient, and do not lose heart
fear that might have to sacrifice some­ even if the objective appears distant.
thing. Depending on the situation, the H anged
M an heralds a recovery, a bir th , or a
secret love.

93
 The tarot

XIII Death
FEAR NOT, THIS CARD SPEAKS NOT O F
PHYSICAL DEATH BUT O F
TRANSFORMATION.

Sym bol
Everything dies, and everything is reborn.
The end of one thing is the beginning of As the second card
another .. . A project has not been successfully com­
pleted, you are facing an obstacle , you
As the first card lack self-confidence , a break-up is
Your situation is difficult, because you announced, or perhaps a passion has
have reached a turning point. A change , died. Accept the fact that you can no
perhaps even an upheaval, has taken longer live as you did before.
place , or you have experienced a sepa­
ration. Remember defeat can be prof­ As the thi rd card
itable , a necessary change that will be A new phase , new love , new work or a
followed by a renewal. new period in your life . .. you are going
to change your behavior and your way
of life. T his will not be easy, but it will
prove very beneficial. You are on the
threshold of a rebir th. Do not fear it,
welcome it!

94
 The tarot

XIII I Tern p erance

A N ANGEL, A SPIRIT BELONGING MORE TO
HEAVEN THAN TO EARTH, DECANTS PURE,
CELESTIAL WATER.

Symbol
Temperance expresses moderation. It
speaks of communication , exchanges , As the second card
and peace. Temperance is not a negative card. You
may simply be a little unstable and vul­
As the fi rst card nerable from a physical or psychological
Improvement development and regen­ point of view. just don't yield too easily to
eration . .. you want to become part of outside influences, or let yourself go.
something bigger than yourself, to trans­
form yourself in order to achieve equi­ As the thi rd card
librium. Yes, the conditions are favorable , The omen is positive.You will attain equi­
but you are fragile , and you must first librium and harmony, you will strength­
resolve your own contradictions. en a relationship, improve friendships or
effect a reconciliation. This may also be
reflected in a union , a recover y, new
friendships, a positive unexpected event
or a birth. Do not rush anything; every­
thing will happen in due course.

9S
 The tarot

XV The D evil
A UTILE FRIGHTEN ING AT FIRST SIGHT BUT
DO NOT LET THIS MISLEAD YOU . . . HE
HIDES AN UNSUSPECTED STRENGTH:
YOURS!

Symbol As the second card

T he world ofthe Devil is a temporal one. Lies , unhappy sexual experiences, bad
H is world is that of sex , money, and people around you , excesses, lack of
power: scruples , fraud, temptation , enemies,
dependence on a person or a situa­
As the fi rst card tion. . . fight your baser instincts , and do
Driven by passion, you yearn for physi­ not give in to destructive thoughts.
cal happiness, material and social success,
or to conquer the object of your desires As the thi rd card
through force if need be.That is, unless The Devil predicts a favorable situation
you feel shackled to something or some­ in the material and physical fields: dar­
one? In that case you will b� able to find ing , courage , magnetism , health , vitality,
a way out. money, sensual attraction, creative force
or passionate sexual relationship. Be
careful , you might become ensnared by
this.

96
 The tarot

XVI
The Tower
A SHOT ACROSS T H E BOW, A N ALARM
SIGNAL. . . THIS CARD IS A WARNING

Symbol As the second card

T his represents the destruction of false After a financial, professional or emo­
values and ways of life that are no longer tional failure , your ego has suffered , and
acceptable. you have lost face .T he fault lies not with
others but with yourself, your pride , your
As the fi rst card selfishness , or your excessive ambition.
You are going through a troubled phase There is a lesson you have not under­
in your life , experiencing a difficult and stood, and you have made mistakes. You
controversial situation, or you are suf­ need to change course.
fering from a trauma. You are having to
reappraise yourself, you have discovered As the th i rd card
a truth, you have opened your eyes.lt ) s Warning! You must make a clean sweep
a beneficial storm , a constructive ordeal, and break with the past, even if it means
or a salutary crisis. taking risks and launching yourself into a
new adventure. Depending on your
question , this will be a beneficial break, a
move , or another professional orienta­
tion.A radical change is on the horizon,
but before this happens you must
destroy in order to rebuild.

97
 The tarot

XVII The Star

THIS IS T H E LUCKY STAR, T H E O N E THAT
PROTECTS YOU . . .

Sym bol As the second card

The Star speaks of good fortune , hope , T he Star is a very positive card. You
inspiration , or credit for something from should expect no maj or diffi culties ,
the past that is at last bringing its although you might be a bit too easy­
reward. going or become prey to shamelessness,
dreaming, self-indulgence, or a little con­
As the fi rst card fusion. It may speak of a desire that has
Your situation is good , even excellent. not yet been fulfilled.
T he time is favorable and opportunities
for happiness abound. You have talent, As the thi rd card
ar tistic gifts, imagination, healthy aspira­ Do not worry, the Star heralds harmo­
tions, and the ability to create something ny, peace, safety. spiritual and romantic
beautiful and new. love, an encounter with your soul mate,
the end of your ordeals, a recovery, a cre­
ative action, or a birth . . . You have a bril­
liant future ahead of you; do not let
negative thoughts stand in you way.

98
 T h e tarot

XVIII The Moon

THE MOON REGULATES OUR NIGHTS,
LIGHT OR DARK, INHABITED BY DREAMS OR
GHOSTS

Symbol As the second card

Indicating imagination, sensitivity, and Misunderstanding, lies, unproductive
receptivity, this card also speaks of intro­ memories, lack of realism or an error of
spection, illusion, and nostalgia. judgment you are kidding yourself, your
situation is blurred, you are disappoint­
As the fi rst card ed by someone, or you are becoming
Hypersensitive, for the moment you are withdrawn.
living on an emotional plane. Events
linked to the past weigh upon you, and As the th i rd card
you fear something that may or may not You will have to face your fears, shake
happen. You have doubts. If the situation off the past, and get back to basics. But
involves the home, children, or an artis­ instability is threatening. Regarding rela­
tic project, you are on the right path. tionships, you must remain clear-head­
ed.T his card speaks of deceit, illusion, or
deception.Be prudent and develop your
character.

99
 The tarot

XVIIII The Sun

THE SUN OBLITERATES DARK FORCES. IT IS
THE VICTORY OF DAY OVER NIGHT. ALL
OBSTACLES ARE REMOVED.

Symbol As the second card

T he Sun brings illumination , distributes The Sun does not have negative conno­
love and happiness, and opens the heart tations, although it's best to guard against
and mind to life. pride , playing to the gallery or bluffing.
Moderate your ambition and excessive
As the fi rst card self-confidence. Do not hide the truth
Your situation is good , and your assets from yourself.
are numerous. You have plenty of ambi­
tion. You want to shine , succeed , build , As the thi rd card
undertake a project , love a par tner or A very beautiful omen! The Sun promis­
children , or generously help those es love , joy, an encounter; marriage , a
around you. You are on the road to sat­ happy sex life , a birth, good health , suc­
isfaction. cess , fame , the recognition of one's tal­
ents, artistic success, financial gains, help,
a solution to life's problems. . .

100
 The tarot

XX Judgment
T H E TRUMPETS OF T H E LAST JUDGMENT
AWAKEN THE CONSCIENCE. IT IS A REBIRTH,
A DISCOVERY, A RENEWAL.

Symbol As the second card

Judgment heralds the end of an ordeal , A problem has been only half solved , a
a second chance, or the clarification of a piece of news has shaken you , you are
situation. experiencing legal problems, you are
indecisive, disappointed, stressed , you
As the fi rst card have a bad opinion of yourself, or per­
Leaving the cold and darkness, you haps you must forgive someone or let
emerge into full light. Your situation something go.
involves a change, a sud den and unex­
pected event , dynamism, and overex­ As the thi rd card
citement. You are given the opportunity A verdict will be rendered, and you will
to be reborn , to start again. see your situation in a new light. One
d oor closes , but another opens. N ow
comes the settlement of an old problem ,
the reward for your efforts , a moment
of truth, regained health , the realization
of project dear to your heart, the birth of
a long-awaited child , or the end of an
ordeal.

101
 The t a r o t

XXI Th e World
ANGELS, ANIMALS AND HUMANS ARE
GATHERED IN THIS CARD . . . IT IS THE
APOTHEOSIS!

Sym bol As the second card

The World expresses the Whole. It The World against you means a lot of
speaks of material and spiritual accom­ effort for very little result; it means scat­
plishments. tering, idleness, a tendency to laxity or a
lack of concentration. You must expect
As the fi rst card material limitations and accept yourself
You are on the way, you are evolving.Your as you are.
situation is about to develop and take off,
and your horizon is about to broaden. As the th i rd card
You are ready to move, to travel, to dis­ A very beautiful omen . . . T he world is
cover the world at large, and to experi­ your oyster! You will experience success,
ence new. unknown sensations. overcome obstacles, travel abroad, dis­
cover new horizons, your merits will be
recognized, you will start a new adven­
ture, transform your image , and fulfill
your wishes. Fear nothing; on the con­
trary, you should rejoice!

102
 The tarot

The Fool
THIS CARD HAS NO NUMBER, NO HOUSE,
AND NO DIRECTION . . . THE fOOL IS IN
SEARCH OF AN IDENTITY.

Symbol As the second card

Drifting here and there, the Fool takes Guard against an excessively carefree
you anywhere and shows you the worst attitude, eccentricity, and infidelity. Your
as well as the best. projects are chaotic, incoherent or illu­
sory, and you allow yourself to be pushed
As the fi rst card by circumstances. You lack rigor and are
You situation is unstable. You are wan­ not practical . or you try to escape from
dering right and left, buffeted by events your responsibilities. Control your
or caught in a rhythm that escapes you. instincts, become aware of reality, and
In search of something or someone, you remain reasonable.
are finding it difficult to adapt to the
world around you or to choose an As the thi rd card
objective. T here is a change in your mood. A new
project, an unexpected move,a search for
freedom, a journey, an original adventure
or experience, an oppor tunity to be
seized with both hands or a brain­
storm .. . T his card does not speak of
material, professional or romantic success
but depending on the other cards drawn,
it speaks of spiritual development restless
wandering or renewed awareness.

103
 Astro l o g y a n d d i v i n at i o n p l ayed a
m aj o r part i n Aztec c i v i l i zati o n . To
p red ict t h e futu re , t h e p r i ests-t h e
'tonalpouhques, "those w h o c o u n t the

Tonalamalt si g ns"-interpreted the calendar of

26.0 days know_n as the tonalf><>ualli, a

The Aztec �
complex sy�te � of sacre n.UI;n b�rs.
T h ey stud ied the cycles of .the s u n ,
Book of Destiny . .

·, the l!'oon, andVenus, and i nte!preted

t h e m i n re l at i o n to t h e tonalli, the
tWenty symbols of the caliehdalr._....._
..
 Co n s u lt i ng th e o rac l e

The symbols include mammals (deer; rabbit, dog, ocelot, monkey),

reptiles (alligator; snake, lizard), and birds (vulture, eagle), as well as
the elements (water; rain, wind). Added to these there are death,
closely linked to the ear th in Aztec thought, and movement , a
reflection of solar and cosmic dynamics. Then there are also the
three signs symbolizing the plant world (the grass, the reed and
the fl ower), a sign for the mineral world (flint), and one for cultural
aspects (the house).

1
Ask a question silently or ask the person you are consulting to ask
the question in the same way.

2
Place your fi nger at random on one of the twenty tonalli of the
wheel opposite and count thirteen squares clockwise or counter­
clockwise as you wish.

3
The tonalli that you land on gives the answer to the question. Read
its message and its prediction.

106
 To n a l a m a l t , t h e A z t e c B o o k o f D e s t i ny

1 9 20 1
2
18 3
17 4
16 s

1S 6

14 7
13 8
12 9
11 10

107
 I nte rp retati o n s

l Cip actli 2 Eecatl

T H E ALLIGATOR T H E WIND

In Aztec tradition, the alligator; a terres­ T he Aztec temples dedicated to the

trial animal , was thrown into the water by Wind had only curved walls because the
the soothsayers, thus starting the evolu­ Wind does not like right angles , and con­
tion of time. Symbol of primordial water; sequently, the clear-cut aspects of life.
it represents childbirth and beginnings.
Omen
Omen Indecision , ambiguity, and instability . . .
Excellent. It promises prosperity and your enthusiasm is short-lived, and your
even abundance if you care about work desires are changing.
well done and become thoroughly
involved in the situation that presents A favorab l e d raw for ever ything con­
itself cerning communication , ingenuity, fanta­
sy, ar t , brief romantic relationships ,
A favo rabl e d raw for planning work , changes of lifestyle, casual friendships,
starting a project, starting from scratch , and traveling.
creating an association , star ting a rela­
tionship, or deciding to have a child. An unfavorable d raw for lasting roman­
tic relationships , c lear-cut decisions,
An u nfavorable d raw for stabilizing a sit­ responsibilities, financial gains , and work
uation, turning back , completing a busi­ that requires concentration and perse­
ness deal or resolving a family problem. verance.

108
 To n a l a m alt , t h e A z t e c B o o k o f D e s t iny

3 Calli 4 Cuetzp allin

THE HousE T H E LIZARD

The H ouse symbolizes the family, tradi­ Lively, smart, and effective , the Lizard
tions, resistance to change, and the need never hurts itself even when it falls, and
for shelter against the stresses of life. it catches its prey without effort . .. these
things come to it naturally
Omen
You must be prudent and persevering. Omen
This requires effort on your part, sacri­ Exce l l ent, as l ong as you guard against
fices, patience, and a very clear approach nervousness, laxness, lack of concentra­
to the problem. tion, oppo rtunism, and indifference to
others.
A favorable d raw fo r everything relat­
ing to the home and family, concern for A favorable d raw for undertaking a dar­
others, easing a conflict, following tradi­ ing or o riginal project, wo rking quickly
tion or a clear-cut path, living in solitude, and well, regaining your health, influenc­
resting, and looking after oneself ing others, accomplishing something
important, or having an intense sexual
An u n favo rab l e d raw fo r everything relationship.
relating to the social world, launching a
new enterprise, starting a new love affair, An u nfavorable d raw for family relation­
following an o riginal path or taking ships, romantic friendships, settling a con­
immediate action. flict, following others, or stabilizing a
situation.

109
 T o n a l a m a l t . t h e A z t e c B o o k of D e s t i n y

S Coatl 6 Miquiztli
T H E SERPENT DEATH

Like the " Plumed Serpent." the god of In the Aztec tradition, the symbol of
plant abundance , the Serpent indicates death is not a bad omen. lt calls upon us
transformation. to concentrate on the deeper meaning
of people and things, rather than on
Omen external aspects.
Prosperity and good fortune, as long as
you are worthy of it. If not, destiny could Omen
turn out to be adverse . . . Good fortune but fragile . Do not trust
passion and exaltation. Reflection, tran­
A favorabl e d raw for following an idea quility, and prudence are recommend­
through, concluding a proj ect, gathering ed.
information, taking risks, transforming a
situation, or changing your lifestyle, part­ A favo rab l e d raw for answering funda­
ner or work. mental questions, undertaking a difficult
task or one that requires time , accept­
An u n favo ra b l e d rawfor resting on ing a lesser professional role , or winning
one's laurels. maintaining the status quo someone's trust.
of a situation, standing one's ground,
resolving disputes, revealing a secret or An u n favorab l e d raw for accepting a
being satisfied with what one has. leading post. traveling. getting excited
about a love affair; becoming interested
in a proj ect or a person, acting lightly, or
taking risks.

no
 Tonalamalt . t h e Aztec B o o k o f D e stiny

7 Mazatl 8 • Tochtili
T H E DEER THE RABBIT

The Deer was the most prized p rey of The Rabbit, who l i kes eating more than
Aztec hunters. Fast and with great stam­ worki ng, was the sym b o l of the p leas­
ina, it is constantly on the move but never u re seeker in Aztec trad ition.
strays far from its fel low creatures.
Omen
Omen Charmi ng, engagi ng, and elusive , the Rab­
Encou nters, co ntacts, meeti ngs, travel ­ bit represents laxness, i nfidel ity, and self­
i ng. a n d t h e d iscovery o f new horizons. indulgence.

A favorab l e d raw for looking elsewhere A favo rab l e d raw for having fu n , taki ng
fo r what yo u are l acking. enjoy i n g a risks, playing with people and situations,
change of scene, finding fam i ly harmony, fri e n d s h i ps, o uti ngs, com m u n i cati o n ,
carryi ng o ut an artistic p roj ect, sharing short-term re lationships, sensual i n d u l ­
l ove , sensual ity, and sexual ity, and l iving gence, and everyt h i n g that i nvolves
peacefu l ly surrounded by friends o r rel­ pleasure .
atives.
A n unfavorab l e d raw for everyth ing that
An unfavorabl e d raw for social advance­ req u i res effort. patience, endurance, last­
ment, taki ng command, domi nating oth­ i ng relationships, l oyalty to a cause or a
ers, acti ng independently, leaving o ne's person , material gai ns, or social promo­
friends and fam i ly or fol lowing a routine tion.
in love or at work.

lll
 T o n a l a m a l t , t h e A z t e c B o o k of D e s t i n y

9 Atl 10 Itz cuintli

WATER THE DoG

I n d ispensable to l ife,the sym bol ofWater When someone died, the Aztecs sacri ­
is ambiguous. It expresses fe rti l ity but ficed a dog so that it cou l d accompany
also anxiety because water can fl o o d the dead person on the journey under­
fields. ground.

Omen Omen
Water represents what is unpredictable: A ferti le sign and a good omen, the dog
changing situations, versati le people, the represents loyalty, honesty, and generos­
ups and downs of l ife . ity. It never abandons the person it loves.

A favo rab l e d raw for resolving situations A favo ra b l e d raw fo r g u i d i n g others,

with emoti onal aspects, romantic rela­ h e l p i ng, worki ng as a team with i n a
tionshi ps, passionate love affai rs, or any­ group, giving gifts, starting a lasting affair
th i n g that i nvo lves i m agi n ation and based on sincerity, or plan n i ng the birth
creativity of a child.

An unfavorab l e d raw for stabil izing a sit­ An u nfavo rab l e d raw fo r s h o rt-te rm
u ati o n , starting a p roj ect maki ng l o ng­ p roj ects, asserting o n e's auto n o m y,
term plans, or solving a material, financial worki ng on one's own , acting as a leader,
or practical problem. or giving in to the passion of the moment
or to an i nfidel ity.

ll2
 To n a l a m a l t , t h e A z t e c B o o k of D e s t i ny

11 Ozomatli 12 Malinalli
THE MONKEY GRASS

I n Aztec trad iti o n it was the M o n key In Aztec trad ition grass that d ries out and
who accidental ly i nvented fi re and gave then becomes green again expresses a
it to human bei ngs. He symbol izes i nven­ crisis and a recovery, an end and a new
tiveness and the u nexpected. begi n n i ng.

Omen Omen
Rather good but changeable. Su rprises, Contrad ictory indications depending on
fantasy, curiosity, affairs of the heart. and the cu rrent situati o n . If the situation i s
also i l l-advised expenses. good, i t may get worse; if i t is bad i t may
1 m prove .
A fav o ra b l e d rawfo r com m u n i cati ng,
expressing you r ideas, acting as i nterme­ A favorab l e d raw for d ream i ng, regai n i ng
d iary, undertaki ng a short-term project, o n e's physical o r m e ntal strength, get­
having fun , partyi ng, changing you r part­ ting o ut of a painfu l or c o m p l ex situa­
ner; adapting to a n ew envi ronment, or tion, starting over; fi n d i ng peace after a
living freely. tense period. Acting ki nd ly, tactfu l ly, and
sensitively wi l l prove beneficial.
An u nfavo ra b l e d raw fo r maki ng an
important decision that wi l l com m it you An u nfavo rab l e d raw for stabil izing a sit­
to the fut u re , fo r start i n g a l o n g-te rm u at i o n or a re l ati o n s h i p, p l an n i ng the
relationship, maki ng or i nvesting money, birth of a child, making long-term com­
being i nvolved i n a long-term project, or m it ments, setting oneself an objective i n
putting you r trust i n people. t h e distant future , relyi ng on luck, or act­
ing right away.

ll3
 T o n a l a m a l t . t h e A z t e c B o o k of D e s t i n y

13 Ac atl 14 The O c elot

THE REED T H E OCELOT

The reed sym bol izes l uxurious vegeta­ The an imal i ncarnation of the Sun i n its
t i o n . A sign of p restige, it rep resents n o cturnal phase , th i s dangero u s fe l i n e
learn i ng, knowledge, and rel igion. was feared by t h e Aztecs. A sym bol of
p r i d e , n o b i l ity, and bravery, it also
Omen expresses aggressiven ess, voracity, and
Excel lent. It refers to the moral character instinctual drives.
that gives one power over events and
authority over people. Omen
N ew responsi b i l ities, i n c reased p ower,
A favorabl e d raw for showing what you enthusiasm, and tenacity, th is sign repre­
are worth , express i ng yo u r o p i n i o n s , sents ambiti o n but also confro ntat i o n
undertaki ng an i ntel lectual project, mak­ or danger.
i ng yo u rself p o p u lar, chal lenging yo u r­
self, o r fo r beco m i ng i nterested 1 n A favorabl e d raw for carrying out grand
spi ritual ity and human nature . designs, worki ng efficiently, d iscovering a
secret, engaging i n a passionate love affair,
A n u n favo rab l e d raw if y o u hope to starting a proj ect, maki ng people o bey
m ake mate rial gai n s , i nvest, bo rrow you, or having i nfl uence over others.
m o n ey or you are about to become
i nvolved in a love affair.This is because the An u nfavo rab l e d raw fo r giving in to
stem of the reed i s h o l l ow . . . it has n o i d l e n ess, mai ntai n i ng the status q u o ,
heart. refusing responsibil ity, playing a second­
ary role, or aski ng you rself or someone
else to be faithful.

114
 To n a l a m alt , t h e A z t e c B o o k o f D e stiny

IS Quauhtli 16 Cozc aqua uh tli

THE EAGLE THE VULTURE

Ve n erated fo r h av i n g c o n q u ered the ' The Eagle with the necklace," as he was
darkness, the Eagle carried the n ewly called by the Aztecs, is the sym bol of
created Sun to the zen ith. It expresses wisd o m , cal m , and p o i s e . H e is the
lucid ity, foresight, and perfectionism. anci ent sage d i s p e n s i n g g u i d ance to
those who need it.
Omen
The Eagle leaves n oth i ng to chance. It Omen
speaks of success that req u i res self-con­ The o utco me of the situati o n i s n ot i n
trol, comm itment, and perseverance. yo u r hands. Yo u m u st act sensi bly and
competently or ask the gui dance of an
A favo rab l e d raw fo r wi n n i ng th rough experienced person .
force or legal action, taki ng risks, maki ng
decisions, antici pating a situation, saving A favo rab l e d raw fo r h av i n g tal ks,
money, undertaki ng a scientific or i nde­ expressing you r convictions, teaching or
pendent project. or charm ing and con­ being taught. j u dging the actions of oth­
quering a partner. ers, bringing up c h i l d ren, regai n i ng you r
health , or l iving t o a ri pe o l d age .
An unfavorable d raw for becom ing part
of a team , m ixing i n a group, relying on An u n favo rab l e d raw fo r fee l i ng i nde­
chance, remai n i ng dependent on a per­ pendent. starting a love affair; i n d u lging i n
son o r a situation, spending m o n ey, o r sensual ity a n d passion, o r acting rashly or
letti ng th ings take their course. on a wh i m .

ns
 T o n a l a m a l t , t h e A z t e c B o o k of D e s t i n y

17 Ollin 18 Tecpat
MOVEMENT FLINT

Oil in is the name of the rubber used by The fl i nt knife was used i n human sacri­
the Aztecs to make bal l s fo r p l aying fices fo r cutting o ut the hearts of van­
games with. By m u lt i p ly i n g the fo rce q u ished warriors to feed the S u n .
transm itted to it, O i l in expresses dynam­ Sym b o l o f to ughness a n d austerity, it
ic action. does not al low room for fantasy.

Omen Omen
Good fortu ne and happi ness, as long as Th i s sym bol i s about taki ng up a chal­
you are serious about you r goals. What lenge , about the courage , honesty, and
matters here i s to use one's w i l l , make moral rectitude needed i n the situation
sustained efforts, and keep on moving. that is worrying you.

A favo rab l e d raw fo r eve ryth i n g that A favo rab l e d raw fo r seeking h o n o rs,
i nvolves i nte l l ectual p u rsu its, responsi­ assuming responsible posit ions, sacrificing
b i l ities, noble senti ments, long-term pro­ you rself for a good cause, for social and
jects, fri e n d ly re lati o n s h i ps, j o u rneys, professional relationships and decisions,
b u s i n ess trips, o r aesthetic and artistic and actions that requ i re practical ity, seri­
development ousness, and clarity.

An u nfavorable d raw for acting as leader; An unfavo rab l e d raw fo r fam i ly o r

slacke n i ng one's efforts, relaxi ng, refus­ senti m e ntal re l ati o n s h i ps, s l o p p i n ess,
i n g to move on, acq u i ring material goods, re l axation, fantasy, i n d e c i s i o n , j o u rn eys
or borrowing money. and p l easu re tri ps, or l ight or frivo l o u s
situations.

116
 To n a l a m a l t , t h e A z t e c B o o k of D e s t i ny

19 Quiauitl 20 Xochitl
RAIN T H E fLOWER

A symbol with many facets, Rai n can be In the Aztec trad ition, the flower; sensu­
a benefactor; but it also can bu rst i nto a al and d e s i rable, was a sym bol of p l ay,
tem pest or torrential down pour. easy love , art, and beauty.

Omen Omen
Here you are faced with a cause that may The Fl ower re p rese nts p l eas u re , d izzi­
not be worth the trouble, youthfu l ind is­ n ess, and excess. G uard agai n st h o pes
cretions, infatuation, or an u rge that is as and d i s i l l usionment because the Flower
sudden as it is i rrational. is fragile, wilting when it is touched.

A favo rab l e d raw fo r travel to d i stant A favo rab l e d raw fo r anyth i ng re l ated
places, meetings, fal l ing in love , acting on to artistic pursu its (painti ng, theater; cin­
impu lse, love at fi rst sight, outings, pleas­ ema, m u s i c , dance, and so on) , to l ove
u res, and tem ptations of every ki nd. (fl i rti ng, encounters, and sed uction) , and
to p leasure trips.
An u n favorable d raw for fi nding sereni­
ty and repose, or for works that req u i re An u n favo rab l e d raw for hard , d iffi c u lt
determ i n ati o n , e n d u ri n g ro mantic tasks that req u i re effo rt and persever­
attach m e nts, acq u i siti o n s and fi n ancial ance, fo r fi n an c i a l earn i ngs, and social
i nvestments. advancement. Avoid anyth i ng to do with
gam bli ng-you are certain to lose.

117
 H ow to co n s u lt th e o rac l e

1
Choose a number between I and 20 at random. Select a color on
the color wheel opposite, and from there count the number you
have chosen, clockwise or counterclockwise as you wish.

Note the color you land on. T h i s color i ndicates the tenor of your
romantic feeli ngs.

2
Choose a secon d number between I and 20 at random. Put your
fi nger back on the co l or you fi rst star ted from, and from there
count the second number you have chosen, clockwise or counter­
clockwise as you wish.

3
Read the symbol ism of each color; then the comb i n ation of the
two colors to find out what characterizes your relationship today.

120
Colors

121
 Th e te n co l o rs

Yellow •
Attitu d e to ado pt: D o n ot hesitate,
• • • • b reak with old habits and fo l l ow yo u r
impu lses, but b e careful not t o g o too far!
Th is is the color of the sun, of gold, and
of light. Yel l ow represents rad iating love ,
fi l led with warmth and cheerfu l ness. Pre­
pared to give of itse lf and to start o r
revive a story o f love , i t expresses gen­
Blue
erosity.
The color of the s ky, b l u e rep resents
Omen o p e n spaces, escap e , and fre e d o m . It
Capable of clarifying even the most con­ symbol izes sincere , imaginative l ove , fu l l
fused situations, you are going to make o f freshness. Spi ritual ized a n d ideal ized ,
them develop i n a positive d i rection and such l ove can lose its passionate nature
communicate you r fee l i ngs of love. or become confused with friendship.
Attitu d e to ado pt: It is time to take the
i n itiative , to express you rself, and to say: Omen
I love you ! You wi l l h ave the opportun ity to enter
• i nto d ialogue, make contacts, meet oth-
• • ers, and even turn situat i o n s to yo u r
Red • advantage.Today everyth ing i s possi ble!
Attitu d e to adopt: Do not remain i n a
rut. Ch ange yo u r d i recti o n and yo u r
The color of fire and blood, red symbol­ ti m etab l e , th i n k outs i d e the box, and
izes impu lsive, immediate, total love. Red show some origi nality.
expresses passionate feelings, full of eager­
ness and desire. Red is the color of physi­
cal love, of sexual pleasure; it is a fiame that
Green
•
burns itself out or devours and destroys.
• •

Omen
There i s n o roo m fo r shyness o r day­ The color of spring, youth, and romanti­
d ream i ng. You have the strength to con­ cism, it fi l ls you with hope and i n s p i res
quer, you are going to precipitate thi ngs you with music and poetry. But it can also
or dominate you r partner:There is ener­ take everyth ing away i n one fel l swoop!
gy or even provocation in the air!

122
 Colors

•
•
Omen
Violet ••

G reen is the color of a carefree spi rit, of

a m i n d fu l l of d reams and i l l usions. You Representing spi ritual ity and mysticism,
may �nd you r part n er elusive and feel l i ke this color; deeper than blue and cal mer
escapi ng from real ity. On the other hand, than red , speaks of i nte l l ectual l ove ,
you m ay experi ence some magical peacefu l and composed.
moments!
Attitu d e to ado pt: Do n ot p u rs u e Omen
i mpossible or perfect love, but l ive each You are on the road to d iscovering pro­
day to the fu l l without th i n king of yes­ found, lasting love , friendl ier and gentler
terday or tomorrow. rather than one purely physical or sen­
sual. It may also i nvolve an older person
who has already experienced marriage
O range or a partnership.
Attitu d e to adopt: Look at you r situation
from a distance and share you r i nte l l ec­
Deeper than yel low but less violent than tual tastes. Com m it you r heart but also
red , th i s c o l o r sym bol izes balance and yo u r m i n d to th i s re l at i o n s h i p. Sexual
harmony i n emotional relationsh i ps. pleasure is not the objective.

Omen
Orange promises growth, enjoyment of
l ife and enthusiasm . You wi l l experience
Pink
strong, generous fee l i ngs. It is not just a
fl i rtat i o n o r a s i m p l e e n c o u nter but a Th i s color sym bol izes tenderness, d e l i ­
m eeti ng that wi l l l ead to a l o ng-term cacy, charm , a n d beauty, but a l s o vol u p­
relationship. tuousness, a d i stinct taste for pleasure i n
Attitu d e to ado pt: C o m m it yo u rse lf, all its forms.
become i nvo lved, take on respon s i b i l i ­
ties, agree t o th i ngs . . . make a choice! Omen
Sed u ct i o n and sensual ity w i l l be p res­
e nt, b ut guard aga i n st �cklen ess, care­
lessness, or secrecy. Perhaps it i nvolves a
person who can n ot l ive a l o n e , who i s
capricious a n d dependent?

123
 Colors

Attitude to adopt: Express yo u r ten­ Omen

derness and yo u r caresses but d o n ot Wh ite expresses a lack of warmth and
a l l ow yo u rself to be i nfl u e n ced by the passion. It i nvolves a person who has not
opinion of others or overcome by mem­ yet been i n love or is afraid to become
ories or i l l usions. so. But it may also indicate the promise of
an e n c o u nter, a wh ite sh eet o n wh i c h
you wi l l write you r own love story . . .
Attit u d e to adopt: D o n 't act yet, and
Gray • •
• d o n 't rush anyth i n g. j u st be receptive ,
ready to welcome and share what may
come to pass.
Between shade and d u s k, halfway
between l u kewarm and cold, gray sym­
bol izes neutral ity, austerity, or stabi l ity. Brown
Omen Th is color represents earth and every­
G ray does n ot p rom ise overwhe l m i ng th i n g that is fixed and tangi b l e . Rather
enth usiasm but the search for eq u i l i bri­ than enth usiasm or passion, it speaks of
u m . It may also i nvolve a secretive , wisdom and shyness. It has a peacefu l
thoughtfu l person who fi n d s it diffi c u lt side but i s slightly on the defensive .
to express fee l i ngs.
Attitude to adopt: You r love needs ti me Omen
to express itself. Yo u m u st wait fo r the Th is c o l o r refe rs to a thoughtfu l per­
right moment to act. For the time bei ng, son who tries to b u i l d a s o l i d fo u n da­
be at peace with you rself. If you do so, tion fo r l ove. Yo u r fee l i ngs wi l l evo lve
yo u wi l l have a bette r chance of l iving slowly but surely and will d evelop i nto a
happily with the other person . lasti ng relationship.
Attitu de to adopt: O n ly sincere words
and profound fee l i ngs will have a chance
White of thri l l i ng you r partn er. Be tender and
sincere; then the situati on wi l l grad ually
Wh ite exp resses i n nocence, modesty, 1mprove.
pu rity, and v i rgin ity. Its ideal is noble, its
fidel ity is total, and its love almost inac­
cessi ble.

124
Co l o r associati o n s

Yellow and . . .
Yel l ow a n d ye l l ow: Two suns. You r l ove Ye l low a n d v i o l et:
Sharing. Th is is n ot a
is passionate or as d ry as the desert.You passing i nfatuation but the opportun ity
i l l u m i n ate each oth e r, or yo u h i d e the to experience lasting, profound love.
truth from each other:
Ye l l ow a n d g ray:S u n and c l o u d s . O n e
Yel low and red : Fire and light. Passion, a p e r s o n expresses fee l i ngs, wh i l e t h e
b u rn i ng l ove , and torrid sensual ity . . . oth e r h o l d s back. Wi l l the s u n break
peace will be made i n bed or not at al l . through?

Yel l ow a n d b l u e : S u n a n d blue sky. T h e Yel l ow a n d wh ite: Dazzl ing.Yo u are o n

weather is fine. This combination repre­ t h e road t o ideal love , p u re a n d u n blem­
sents a bond, a friendship that turns i nto ished. Lies, however i nsign ificant are inad­
love or an extra-marital affai r: visable .

Ye l l ow a n d gree n : N atu re i n the s u n ­ Ye l l ow a n d b rown : Warm ing up. I n th is

s h i n e . A romantic love affair, a poetic dec­ c o m p l em e ntary c o m b i n at i o n , l ove i s
laration, or emotional revital ization, this expressed both physical ly a n d spi ritual ly.
com bination indicates a ferti le love .

Yel l ow and p i n k: As h i n i ng flower: A bud­

d i ng l ove , sweet noth i ngs, presents . . . It
is tender and sweet. But be carefu l and ,

don't blunder! •

•
Yel l ow and o range: Overflowing. All
that
the two partners want is beautifu l per­ •
spectives, but watch out for promises not ..
4:
kept! �
�

!II;
• •
• 9 •
I
�
f �
•

l2S
 Colors

Re d and . . .
Red and red:Violence . There is jealousy Red and gray: Discrepancy. Differences in
and aggression i n the ai r. G uard against objectives or temperaments mean that
overi ndu lgence! th is partnersh i p wi l l be difficult to sustai n.

Red and b l u e :
Co ntrast. O n e l ives the R e d a n d wh ite: A l l o r n oth i ng. Sexual
language of passion and raw desire , wh i l e pleasu re or total absti nence? Passion or
t h e other speaks o f ideas a n d freedom. l oyalty? Yo u wi l l h ave to fi n d c o m m o n
You are not on the same wave length . ground.

Red a n d g re e n : C o m p l e m enti ng each R e d a n d b row n : A p ro m i sed u n i o n . If

other. Red is action and dynam ism wh i l e brown remains on the defensive , red wi l l
green i s gent l e n ess and passivity. O n e grow tired o f i t But if brown fol l ows red,
partner p rovides the m otivat i o n ; the the couple wi l l go far.
other keeps th i ngs cal m .

Red a n d o range : Energy. O range bri ngs

harmo ny, bal a n c i n g the pass i o n of the
red . The red carri es it along u n kn own
paths . . .

Red a n d v i o l et: Stre ngth and wisdom.

Close to each oth er, these two c o l o rs
com b i n e e nth u s i asm and m aturity. A
beautifu l combi nati on.

R e d and pi n k: M uted color. One is fu l ly

present, wh i l e the other is fu l l of nuances.
Who wi l l make concessions?

126
 Colors

Blue and . . . • • • • •
B l u e and b l u e : Th e sky and space . Both Blue and gray: Blue sky, gray sky Change­
of you d ream of freed o m . Today, favor able weather; showers, l ightn ing . . . each
friendsh i p over l ove . partn er m u st re m a i n s p i ritu a l ly i n d e­
pendent.
B l u e a n d gre e n : The sky and the sea. A
sensual and spi ritual u n ion, with inspira­ Blue and wh ite: Fratern ity.There is com­
tion and imagi nation in common, mon ground:the u rge to l ive a love with­
out l i m its, ideal, absol ute . . .
B l u e a n d o range: Changes. O range
req u i res harmo ny, balance , and peace . B l u e and b rown : The sky and the earth.
B l u e , on the other hand, l oves renewal Brown i s solid, practical, and grounded.
and freedom. W i l l brown fol low blue so that they can
create their own love story?
B l u e a n d v i o l et: A deep re l ati o n s h i p.
Close to one another; the couple loves
journeys, d iscoveries, and fantasy

Blue and p i n k:
Boys and girls. A comple­
mentary combi nation. Blue provides ide­
alism and pink tenderness.

• ••

..

127
 Colors

...

Green and . . .

Green and gre e n : What are you striving G reen and gray:T he romanticism of the
for? . . . Youth, lack of concern or passivi- one fits bad ly with the austerity of the
ty . . . which one of the couple wi l l point oth er, but at least it will be a calm and
the way and make the decisions? stable relationsh i p.

Green and o range: Mother Nature.With Green and wh ite: Liveliness.A new union
i n s p i red l ove , affecti o n ate harmo ny, or one that comes back to life . , , today
warmth , and youthfu l feelings, th is couple anyth ing is possi ble!
grows to l ove each oth e r m o re every
day. Green and b rown:The vegetal world. I n
the image o f nature , th is is a promise of
Green and violet: l n itiation.T he freshness growth, ferti l ity, and flowering.
of green is a l l ied with the m atu rity of
violet In this combi nation, the fi rst must
fol l ow the second.

Green and p i n k: Yo uth . Lighthearte d ,

.I
wh imsical, perhaps careless: th is combi­
nation may lack strength or matu rity. •
•
•
•

128
 Colors

O range and . . .

O range and o range: Two halves . . . The · Orange and w h ite: E n c o u ragi ng. Both
combination i nvo lves reu n ions and the have pure fee l i ngs and the taste for bal­
prom ise of ach i eving balance, harmony, ance, an idea raised up by love .
and u n ity
Orange and b rown : Fertil ity With warm
Orange and violet: A beautifu l mixture. senti ments, harmo ny, and acco m p l ish­
The fi rst person p rovides e nth u s iasm ment, the union is solid and concrete.
and the second m atu rity . . . together,
they wi l l go far.

Ora n ge a n d p i n k: Fru it and fl owers.

O range becomes i nvolved in the rel a­
t i o n s h i p, wanting p hysical l ove , w h i c h
should not alarm p i n k!

Orange and gray: H ot and cold. l nto th is

mixture of l ight and shad e , o range can •
bring out gray from its solit ude, its gloom. •

129
 Colors

• •

...

. . •· . .
Violet and . . . Pink and . . .
V i o l et a n d v i o l et:
Cal m . The repetition P i n k a n d p i n k: Vo l u pt u o u s n ess. An
of violet is more su itable for mature peo­ excessive taste for pleasure . . . It is good
ple than young l overs. but each i s overly d e p e n d e nt on the
other.
Violet and pink:Tenderness. Love is sub­
tle. This association speaks of constancy, P i n k a n d gray: Pastel . An association i n
restrai nt, and self-mastery m uted c o l o r for a u n i o n that is hard to
enl iven or to revive .
V i o l et and gray :
Rather sad . It i m p l ies
melancholy or boredom, unless there is Pi n k and wh ite: Dappled. An adolescent
assessment o r self-exa m i n at i o n to be l iaison that is i n suspense, on the point
carried out of begi n n i ng or renewing itself

Violet and wh ite: Ideal ism. Faith i n eter­ Pink and b rown: A flower of the earth .
nal love , fidel ity, a combination that is fu l l P i n k m ay be l et d own by the material
o f wisdom, beauty, a n d good fee l i ngs. side of brown. Brown risks being offend­
ed u p by the lightness of the p i n k.
Vi o l et and b row n :
Restrai nt A combi­
nation of somber to nes. I s freedom or
the flame of desire missing here?

•
f •
•

130
 Colors

•
•
•
* • • • •
Gray and . . . White and . . .
G ray a n d gray: Patience. Neutral ity, cool­ Wh ite and wh ite: Virgi nai.Total, absol ute,
ness, and s o l itude . . . th i s i s an austere ideal love , but it may also remain . . . vir­
union or one that needs time to develop. gin.

G ray and wh ite:Colorless. They resem­ White and b row n : N o overi n d u lgence.
ble each other. Putting aside some dark A faithfu l , cal m o r reasonable u n i o n ,
ideas. u n l ess o n e of t h e c o u p l e takes o n the
responsi b i l ities of the other.
..
G ray and b rown : Rather boring.A stable,
sol i d union, but one that struggles to take
off or regenerate itself.

Brown and b rown : Earth with earth .Th is

i s a creative l ove, which i s goo d , but to
give it wi ngs the couple needs to be
• open to the world outside .
•
• •
•
•
!II
•
• • •
• •
• •
"' "
•
•
"
.. •

131
Zulu
divination
Shells, n uts, grai ns of corn, stones
o r bones h ave j u st been th rown
onto the ground .We are in South
Africa, in the l a n d of the Z u l u s .
With "the people o f t h e skies," i t
is t h e sangoma or witch doctor, the
"soothsayer"-usually a woman­
who i nte rprets the signs and the
omens. Trad i t i o n al ly, n u m bers
have a primordial i m portance, and
eve ry one of them-up to o n e
m i l lion-has a meaning.
 Co n s u lti n g th e o rac l e

In the oracle presented here, only the numbers from I to I 3 will

be used to predi ct the future.
The oracle takes the numbers and associates them with symbols
that relate to the questioner, the people surrounding the ques­
tioner, and the questioner's material well -being:
the Wa rri o r represents the questioner ;
the Male is a man the questioner is thinking of;
the Female is a woman the questioner is thi nking of;
the C h i ef is the spi r itual authority;
Cattle symbolize the material goods of the questioner.

Or iginally. the sangoma used monkey or crocodile bones. You can

use flat stones or even matches i nstead.

The five sym bols

the Male
the Female
the Warrior

the Chief

134
 Zulu divi n a t i o n

l
With stones

Find eighteen flat stones. You will need thi rteen stones numbered
from I to 1 3 ; write the numbers on one of the i r faces. Draw the
symbols on both sides of the remaining five stones.

With matches

Take ei ghteen matches. W rite the numbers I to 1 3 (spelled out)

on thi rteen match es. The numbers sh ould be wr i tten on one of
the four faces of the match. Write the names of the five symbols
on two sides of each of the five remaining matches.

2
Sit at a table .Take the eighteen matches or stones in one hand and
ask your question. Blow on your hand, put your elbow on the table
and open your hand, letting the matches or stones fall from the
height of your forearm.

3
Add together all the visi ble numbers.The numbers on the sides or
bottom are considered 'hidden' and are not taken into account.

4
If the total of the visible numbers comes to a number greater than
I 3 , reduce it by adding the digits to each other (see example on next
page) until the number is between I and 1 3 inclusi ve. Make a note
of the total obtained.

l3S
 Zulu divi n a t i o n

s
Loo k and see if any of the sym b o l s are to u c h i n g n u m bers that are
n ot h i d d e n . If so, make a n ote of the assoc i ations.

6
Read the o rac l e that re l ates to the n u m be r fo u n d i n step 4 as we l l
a s t h e sym b o l - n u m be r asso c i ati o n s , w h e re ap p l i ca b l e , fo u n d i n
step 5 .

Exam ple

I As a res u lt of yo u r th row, the v i s i b l e n u m bers are I , 5 , I I , a n d

1 2 . Ad d th e m : I + 5 + I I + 1 2 = 2 9 . 29 i s greater t h a n 1 3 , so
red uce it: 29, that i s 2 + 9 = I I .

2 As a res u lt of yo u r th row, some sym bols are to u c h i n g the v i s i b l e

n u m be rs: t h e Warri o r i s to u c h i n g I I and the C h i ef i s to u c h i n g I 2.

3 To i nterpret the th row, s i m p ly read the text that re l ates to the

n u m be r I I and then the text of asso c i ati o n s " I ! -Warri o r" and
" 1 2-Ch i ef'

If two or more numbers are touching a

symbol, the numbers must be
added together and reduced to
a number between I and I 3.

136
I nte rp retati o n s

1 Kunye
I and the Female
The n u m ber I is considered extremely Don't th ink that the woman i n question
beneficial by the Zulus. It is the n u m ber h e re wi l l fo l l ow yo u fo reve r. Yo u m u st
of the creation and sym bolizes l i berty. also submit you rself to her demands.You
Its message is as follows: you must face u p wi l l b u i l d a good re l ati o n sh i p with her
t o t h e situati o n , m otivate yo u rself, free as long as you let her h ave enough space
you rself from attachment to th i ngs and and freedom.
to people, and look at the situation i n a
dispassionate manner. You must believe
in you rself and i n you r abi l ities. Then, as
l o n g as yo u r thoughts and act i o n s are I and t h e C h i ef
gen u i n e , you wi l l ach i eve su ccess. Yo u Even if you do n ot know h i m , do not see
have the power to make decisions, and h i m , or do n ot want h i m ; he offers you
you are in charge .You should lead not fol­ help.Yo u are not alone.You simply have
low. Don't let anyone i nfl uence you. to open you r heart and you r spi rit and
accept the help that is offered .

I a n d t h e Warrior
Stop relying on others; make you r own I and Cattle
decisions. Like the Zulu warrior leaving An act i o n decided on yo u r part wi l l
fo r war, you m u st act a l o n e , giving the enable you t o acq u i re the material goods
best of you rself. I n th is way yo u wi l l be that p l ease yo u . D o n 't c o u nt on othe r
victorious. peo p l e . The o m e n is positive a s l o n g as
you make an effort on your own .

I and the Male

This concerns a man with an original spir­
it who is hard to i nfluence. If you want
to associate you rself with h i m , you must
show h i m that what you are ach ievi ng is
good for both of you.

137
 Z u l u divi n a t i o n

2 Kub ili
The n u m ber 2 represents imperfection otherwise yo u wi l l have t o use a great
and d issension.T here are d ivergent opin­ deal of tact to cal m the situation.
ions and d iffe rences i n poi nts of vi ew.
D issension should be avoided by d i p lo­
macy and tact. T h i s is n ot the mom ent
to act strongly and i n an individual man­
ner but to fo l l ow others, to accept some 2 and t h e Female
d e p e n d e n cy. Charm, fri e n d s h i p , p l eas­ This is a woman with whom you should
antn ess, and honesty wi l l have a better be carefu l . It is not the moment to begin
chance of success than apathy, shyness, a relati onsh i p. Energetic action on yo u r
deceit o r treache ry. This i s a period of part wou l d only serve t o widen t h e gulf
some obscu rity. You r personal sun is not that separates you .
v i s i b l e at t h i s t i m e , b ut you know that
after the n ight the sun wi l l shine agai n .

2 a n d the C h i ef
Don't look for answers to you r questions
outside you rself Don't trust gurus, spiri­
2 a n d t h e Warrior tual l eaders, people who p rete nd to
You r heart knows the correct response know m o re than yo u , or p e o p l e to
to the cu rrent situation of confi ict. Don't whom power seems important.
push anyone i nto action, and don't wait
for someone to fol l ow you. Like the war­
ri o r; withd raw and wait fo r a bette r
moment to attack again.
2 and Cattle
As to material goods, you are aiming too
h igh, o r the moment is not right. Know
how to stop, not to acq u i re more . What
2 and t h e M a l e you may gai n now could q u ickly be lost.
Th is concerns a man with whom yo u
should be cauti ous. Do not offend h i m ,

138
 Zulu divi n a t i o n

3 Katatu
3 and the Female
Because it cannot be d ivided in two, the Th is is a woman close to you who appre­
number 3 is a very special one. It repre­ ciates and s u p p l e m ents yo u r tale nts. If
sents complementarity.Two women can you r common projects are undertaken in
quarrel but, ifthere is a th i rd, she wi l l bring the spi rit of friendsh i p, success is certai n.
the i r arguments to an end. The n u m ber
3 i s the arbitrato r; the conci l i ato r; the
instrument of harmony and peace. Love ,
occu pati o n , j o u rneys, fri endsh i p, o r the 3 and t h e C h i ef
expression of you r creativity . . . the omen I n the sit uation that i nterests you, you are
is excellent whatever you r question may yo u r own spi ritual guide. Know how to
be .You do not have force you rself; every­ tal k to you rself and to ask yo u rself fo r
thing wi l l happen natural ly. guidance, but also . . . listen to the answer:

3 and the Warri o r

Don't doubt you r talents and you r abi l i ­ 3 and Cattle
ties. The warri o r has wo n the batt l e . T h i s concerns fi n ancial gai ns res u lting
Leave sad ness, fear and q u esti o n i ng fro m yo u r creative wo rk, fro m the
beh i n d and aban d o n yo u rself to yo u r expression of yo u r artistic or other tal­
happi ness. ents. I nvestments made now wi l l increase
in val ue over time.

3 and the Male

Th i s i s a man i n yo u r i m m ed i ate c i rc l e
whose spirit i s very close t o you rs. T h i s
is a friend, a com pan ion o n t h e j o u rney
with whom you wi l l share you r joys and
sorrows.

139
 Zulu divi n a t i o n

4 Kune
4 and the Female
i n Z u l u , ku n e m e a n s " h e w h o h o l d s Th is is a woman worthy of you r respect.
stro ngly together:" N ow i s t h e t i m e to If you take yo u r own fee l i ngs i nto
stabi l ize you r situation, to u n ite the vari­ accou nt and know how to express the
o u s p o rti o n s of yo u r l i fe and to work respect that you have for her; noth ing can
with other people on the development stop you.
of common projects. Don't seek to make
progress on you r own but see what you
can do for others or i n agreement with
them.Taki ng pleasu re in a job wel l done, 4 a n d t h e C h i ef
or from carrying out a task or a d uty, wi l l Everyth i ng is possible, and everyth i ng is
always lead t o good resu lts.You are not perm itted, provided you l ive i n harmo­
o n earth to make o n ly yo u rself happy ny with yo u rself. U n ite yo u r body and
but to learn to appreciate what you are spi rit, you r thoughts and you r actions in
doing and to cooperate with others. pursuit of you r goal .

4 and Cattle
Yo u r fi n ancial affa i rs o r yo u r m ate rial
4 and the Warrior problems wi l l soon be resolved. D o n 't
Val u e yo u r h a p p i ness. The rewards try to accu m u l ate goods. If you let oth­
gai ned fro m the effo rts that you h ave ers profit from you r possessions, every­
made wi l l be greater than you could have thing wi l l go wel l .
hoped for:

4 and the Male

Th is is a man you can count on. Honest
and conscienti ous, he has the abil ity to
wo rk with others. D o n 't try to d o m i ­
nate h i m ; deal with h i m a s a n equal.

140
 Zulu divi n a t i o n

S Kuhlanu
According to Zulu tradition, the num­ sider your relationship with him. For the
ber 5 symbolizes the imperfection of moment, emotions are running too high.
man. You need to pay great attention
and not start anything in an impulsive
manner. It is not reason but your emo­
tions and your desires that are leading
you. If you are not very careful, prob­ 5 and the Female
lems will follow.What you have accu­ T his is a woman with whom you must
mulated could easily disappear due to be ver y careful. If emotion takes the
an instant of folly or a thoughtless deci­ upper hand, things will turn out badly.
sion. It matters little that what you think
of the current situation; nothing should
be undertaken. It is necessary to wait,
above all calming your heart and your
spirit.
5 and the C h i ef
In relation to the area that interests you ,
y o u must question yourself seriously
because you have made some mistakes,
5 and the Warrior you have had negative thoughts, or you
You have been engaged in negative or have acted too impulsively.
destructive actions, and your are facing
a period of instability. You must govern
your emotions, not let yourself be led
by them. After the tempest, calm will
return. 5 and Cattle
Appearances are misleading, and you
must be very careful so far as money
and material goods are concerned.
Weigh up every aspect of the problem,
5 and the Male every decision, and do not commit your­
T his is a man with whom you must keep self lightly.Otherwise, a loss will follow.
at a distance, at least temporarily.Recon-

141
 Zulu divi n a t i o n

6 Isitup a
Sym b o l ized by the l i o n , the n u m be r 6 ally for you. As long as you work togeth­
express es stren gth and courage . What er; success is certai n.
you have started earl ier; the efforts that
you have made, the fee l i ngs that you have
experie nced . . . all these th i ngs must now
fi n d fu lfi l l m ent. D o n 't put off anyth i ng
u ntil later. Set prio riti es and objectives. 6 and the Femal e
Face chal l e nges; you wi l l use yo u r Th i s i s a wo man with a stro ng, h o n est
strength t o overcome them. Roar l i ke a ch aracter. Befo re engag i n g i n a cl oser
l i on, but don't i m pose you r w i l l on oth­ relati onship with her; ask you rself what
ers. Help those who need it, those who you r actual intentions and l i m itati ons are.
do not have the same power. You know You will then be amazed how this person
what is good and what is good for you. can help you.
G o fo rward with d eterm i n ati o n , bold­
ness, and fra n kness. D o n 't be afraid of
danger.

6 a n d t h e C h i ef
D o n ot be afrai d of advers ity. Yo u are
p rotected and g u i d e d i n yo u r act i o n s .
Disregard t h e doubts, h u rdles a n d l i m its
6 and the Warrior that you have i m posed on you rself You
Yo u have been chosen to carry o ut an have the necessary strength for the real­
i m portant task. Yo u kn ow what to do, ization of you r project.
where to go, and whom you are add ress­
i ng.You have enough strength and deter­
m i n ation to bring yo u r p roj ects to a
successfu l conclusion. 6 and Cattle
Yo u r i n itiatives wi l l lead you to success,
part i c u l arly if it is a matter of fi nancial
6 and th e M a l e gai n , i nvestments or mate rial goods.
This is a man of great courage , endowed G rasp the o p p o rtu n ity that p rese nts
with a strong character; who is a reliable itselfTh is chance may not come agai n .

142
 Zulu divination

7 I s ikomb i s a
7 and the M a l e
The number 7 i s considered the "foolish" Th is is a man of you r acq uai ntance who
number, the one that wants to construct is able to help, but who is waiting for you
situations that seem doomed to fai l ure . to be ready to receive assistance and to
I n your situation, you must not be afraid follow his guidance.
of other people. Let them speak and fol­
low the i r own way. The only important
th i ng is what you you rself must find .Th is
o rac l e u n d e r l i nes the fut i l ity of yo u r 7 and the Female
efforts, i f they are o n l y concerned with T h i s is a wo man who is ready to h e l p
the material domai n . If you want to make you , s o long a s t h e relationsh i ps that you
progress, set out to develop on a spi ritual are mai ntai n i ng with her are clear and
p l a n e . Be very carefu l in the re l at i o n ­ decisive , and that the q uestions you ask
s h i p s you are engaged in. lf you are seek­ her are frank and d i rect.
i n g to i m itate others, you wi l l fai l
straightaway.

7 and the C h i ef
Before putting your q uestion to the ora­
7 and the Warrior cle, you must fi rst have p ut it c learly to
Yo u are go i n g in the wrong d i recti o n . yo u rself] But yes , yo u know a l l the
Revise you r objectives, study them from answers to you r q uestions!
a long-term perspective . Be aware that,
when yo u want to raise yo u rself u p ,
there is also t h e risk o f fai l u re. Study you r
past experience a n d learn its lessons for
the futu re . 7 and Cattle
Th is is a question of material benefits, but
you m u st l o o k at the situat i o n m o re
c l osely. There is s o m eth i n g fut i l e o r
ephemeral i n yo u r proj ects, someth i ng
pointless . . .

143
 Zulu divination

8 Itob a Minwe
Mibili
T h e sym bol o f t h e number 8 is associat­ 8 and the M a l e
ed with confl i ct strugg l e , and war. It Th is is a man of you r acq uaintance who
relates to a period of absti nence, priva­ i s experi e n c i ng seri o u s p robl e m s and
tion, or the loss that fol l ows gentler and needs yo u r g u i dance and ass i stance .
m o re p rospero u s m o m e nts. The chal­ Don't turn you r back on h i m ; you r des­
lenge of the n u m ber 8 req u i res engage­ tiny is l i n ked with his.
ment i n a struggle that obl iges you to
l ive with l ess co mfo rt and fewer
res o u rces. But in the e n d , yo u wi l l
emerge into a stage of material o r spiri­ 8 and t h e Female
tual expansion. Remember that noth i ng T h i s i s a wo man who needs yo u , yo u r
is ever gai ned without l oss, and that to presence, you r words and who, i n return,
receive it is necessary fi rst of all to give . wi l l help you . Perhaps you will be cal led
What is new and good wi l l arrive only to fight alongside of h e r? If that i s the
when you put an idea, a proj ect or an case, be ready to do so. It is i n th is way
ind ividual to one side, possibly for good. that you wi l l prese rve you r good re la­
tionsh i p.

8 and the C h i ef
8 and the Warrior I n the situati o n that i nterests yo u , you
You have suffered, or are suffering again, m u st act with the oth e r pe rso n-o r
fro m a l o ss that may be mate rial o r other people-i n a spi rit of justice. Ego­
psychological. But t h e warri or entering ism wi l l lead to defeat.
com bat p refers that h i s adversary be
stro ng. Because of that the v i ctory is
greater.
8 and Cattle
Concern i ng material goods o r m o n ey,
yo u m u st fight to keep what you pos­
sess and perhaps even yield some
ground. lt is by sacrificing a l ittle that you
wi l l gai n much.

144
 Zulu divi n a t i o n

9 Itob a Munwa
Munye
The n u m ber 9 is considered to be a very 9 and the Male
good omen. It is the symbol of creation, Th is is a man whom you can approach
fe rti l ity, matern ity, the wo man, and the with o ut fear so l o n g as yo u r goals are
child. You are going to enter a period of we l l d e fi n e d . M utual confi d e n c e w i l l
new ideas, new needs. Th is is the p o i nt i ncrease .T his is a very good omen for the
of departu re , the commencement of a futu re .
p roj ect, and the o m e n is exce l l ent fo r
everyth ing that involves travel, friendship,
a marriage , a meeti ng, a union, or a coop­
eration between partners. You must be 9 a n d t h e Female
at the same time strong and flexi ble, fi rm This i s a wo man we l l d i sposed to yo u ,
and m i l d i n the re lati o n s h i ps you have with whom i t wou l d b e pleasant t o work
with oth ers. What you p l ant now has or l ive . Yo u r cooperati o n with her wi l l
o n ly to germ i n ate and fl owe r i n o rder b e a source of pleasure and success.
to give forth its fru its.

9 and the C h i ef
You are not alone. People who are near
9 and the Warrior you are ready to help you, to share you r
Yo u are b l essed by the gods because p l easu re a n d yo u r pai n . Yo u are i n har­
yo u are i n harm o ny with the u n iverse. mony with yo u rself and, conseq u e ntly,
Yo u r wishes wi l l be granted , and yo u r with the world that surrounds you .
hopes wi l l b e crowned with success. I t is
time for a new way of l ife and beneficial
changes.

9 a n d Cattle
The period is promising so far as acq ui­
sitions, fi nancial gai n , and i nvestments are
concerned. Efforts i n itiated now wi l l find
their reward.

l4S
 Zulu divination

10 Ishumi
The n u m be r I 0 i s c o n s i d e red to be a l earn fro m h i m , b ut he can l earn fro m
sacred number because it contains all the you.You complement each other. Th is is
qualities of the n i n e preced ing n u mbers. very favorable.
It sym bol izes perfect i o n , ach i evem ent,
and the fi nal stage of a development. It
sym bol izes energy and great power over
bei ngs and thi ngs for those who are sin­ I 0 and t h e Female
cere in their motivations and persevering Th i s is a wo man of yo u r c i rc l e whom
i n their efforts.The number I 0 is the star you should get to know better. You are
that g u i d es h u man bei ngs on the road in sync with each other.Your spi rits wi l l be
to thei r desti ny It is a parti cularly pow­ joi ned, and the result wi l l be happiness.
erfu l number; if you r q uestion relates to
rel igion, faith , or spi ritual ity

I 0 and the C h i ef
Yo u must develop spi ritual ly, and there
I 0 and the Warri o r are one or more peop l e there to h e l p
Do not attach you rself to what is mate­ yo u . The p e r i o d that is o p e n i n g u p i s
rial, earth bound. Shrug off petty or ego­ i m p o rtant, a time of i n s p i rati o n a n d o f
tistical th i n ki ng.Your spi rit must be open, love .
free of all j e a l o u sy, ran c o r; and regret.
The u n iverse wi l l protect you as long as
you l ive in harmony with you rself.
I 0 and Cattle
When number I 0, the spi ritual n u m ber;
coincides with Cattle, sym bol of materi­
al goods, it means that it is i n you r spi rit,
not in you r pocketbook, that true rich­
I 0 and the Male ness is situated.
Th is is a man who serves as you r guide,
master; o r professor. Yo u have much to

146
 Zulu divination

11 Ishumi Na Nye
In the Zulu universe, the number I I 1s tionship is unclear; and you will prevent
seen as the number of evil, of demons each other from making progress.
and of sorcerers. It is also the number
associated with spiritualism, clairvoyants,
psychic mediums, and those who main­
tain contact with the dead. But the num­
ber I I does not only have a strange, dark I I and the Female
side to show us. It can be very positive if This is a woman with whom a friendly
you can overcome the desire to receive or romantic relationship should be
only for yourself, and you are capable of reassessed. You must clarify the situation
giving without expecting anything in and understand your own motives. In this
return. Egoism must be absolutely ban­ way you will understand hers.
ished with number I I . Otherwise, your
own demons will take over . . .

I I and the C h i ef
The problems that you are facing are
I I and the Warri o r not due to other people, the overall sit­
You must delegate some of your respon­ u ation or the environment. You are
sibilities, ask guidance from reliable peo­ responsible for them!
ple, and not go too far for the moment
Get rid of your bad habits and evil
thoughts before starting anything new.
I I and Cattle
Look at possible flaws in your current
attitude towards money or material pos­
sessions. It is up to you to find the solu­
tion to your problems.
I I and the Male
This is a man with whom you must be
very careful because at this moment his
presence is not very favorable, your rei a-

147
 Zulu divination

12 Ishumi
Na Mb ili

The number 1 2 i s associated with fertil­ 1 2 and the Female

ity and abundance.It evokes the image of This is a woman of your circle with
a plant that grows and devel ops. It is a whom your relationship wil l provide
ver y beneficial omen, a harbinger of good results.Your intentions must remain
progress in all human activities.The situ­ pure.In this way you wil l harvest the ben­
ation in which you find yourself wil l not efits of this association.
remain as it is for l ong. It wil l develop,
increase, and bloom provided your atti­
tude is completely free from egotistical
thinking and that you assume a l l your
responsibilities, both towards other peo­ 1 2 and the C h ief
ple and towards yourself Symbol of fertility and abundance, the
number 1 2 indicates success in your
enterprises as long as you think more of
others than yourself
1 2 and the Warri o r
The moment has come to act, not for
yourself but for the common good. If you
remain positive and if you want to share 1 2 and Cattle
the benefits of the time, you will enter a Your material situation is going to
period of abundance. progress, and you wil l har vest the fruits
of your efforts.But you have to help oth­
ers and share your good fortune.

1 2 and the Male

This is a man of your acquaintance with
whom the risks to be taken wil l bring you
greater wel l-being, provided that you are
conscientious in meeting your own
responsibilities.

148
 Zulu divination

13 Ishamu
Na Ntatu

The number I 3 is the combination of the I 3 and the Female

unity of the number I with the harmo­ T his is a woman with whom relations will
ny of the number 3.T he beneficial effects be constructive and fruitful, as much on
of 1 3 are not seen immediately because the spiritual and material planes as the
they develop for a long time in the shad­ emotional one.
ows before becoming manifested. The
results are usually unexpected. Conse­
quently the impact of I 3 is hard to fore­
see.The conditions necessary for true 1 3 and the C h i ef
harmony in life are present but for the This is a matter of a situation that devel­
moment they remain hidden from your ops positively in an unexpected way, or
eyes. When you least expect it they will of a person you have not seen or
emerge from the dark and rise to the thought about for a long time. You may
surface. receive news that is as good as it is
unlooked for.

1 3 and the Warri o r

You are capable of creating what you
need to live well. But remember : what 1 3 and Cattle
you want and what you need are not Hidden forces are working for your
necessarily the same things .. . material well-being.This means that what
you receive may not be exactly what
you expected but, with time , it will seem
all the more precious to you.

I 3 and the Male

Professional collaboration , sentimental
harmony or disinterested friendship . . .
This involves a man with whom your
relationship is strong and will lead to
good results.

149
Nordic
runes
There are 24 runes in the Futhark, the alphabet used by the ancient
Germans, Scandinavians, and Anglo-Saxons, on the basis of which a
philosophical and magical system was established. They are used as
a mnemonic method by the "master of ru nes," who orally transm its
h i s knowl edge to h i s d i s c i ples. He also uses them also to cal l u pon
the gods, to i nvoke a c u rse, and to p re d i ct the fut u re . The C h u rch
r: ... IIICNte v'e r. t h e
 U s i ng th e Fu rth ark,
th e ru n i c al p h abet

Carve or mark the 24 runes on sto nes or p i eces of woo d , and add
an extra u n m arked sto n e o r a p i ece of wood . Put them in a bag
and p u l l o ut a rune at ran d o m to o btai n a resp o n s e .

Alternative ly use the w h e e l o p �• Js ite t o p i c k a r u n e a s fo l l ows.

1
Ask a q u e stion about l ove and re l at i o n s h i p s . Alternatively, yo u m ay
p ut no part i c u l ar q u esti o n , i n w h i c h case the o rac l e wi l l te l l yo u what
awaits yo u on the e m oti onal plane i n the near future .

2
Put yo u r fi nger on a r u n e at ran d o m .

3
Choose a n u m be r between I 0 and 25 and c o u nt the runes c l o c k­
wise or c o u nterc l o c kwise as yo u w i s h . T h e r u n e fo u n d i n th i s way
d eterm i n es the o rac l e .

lS2
Nordic rune s

lS3
 I nte rp retati o n s

l Feoh 3 Thorn
CATTLE THE THORN

Feoh sym bol izes cattle, material goods, This i n d i cates a favorabl e or u nexpect­
what one owns and what one makes ed change! Here it is a matter of the right
productive . In l ove , yo u must preserve person b e i n g in the right p l ace at the
the advantage , stabi l ize the situation, and right time. Th is rune is a symbol of pro­
maintai n yo u r re l ati onsh i p. N ow is not tection and benevo l e n c e . A p i ece of
the time to start a re lati onship. If it is a good news comes from afar. Someone
matter of an amorous conquest, act with i s th i n ki ng of yo u , someone i s ready to
care and perseverance and in time you fo l l ow you , to move cl oser; and to help
wi l l be successfu l . For the m o m e nt, be you . For the moment, do not start any­
aware of the l uck that you already have . thing on yo u r own i n itiative and, if yo u
lack self-co n fi d e n ce , take n o act i o n . A
c o m b i n at i o n of c i rc u m stances wi l l be
favorable to you .

2 Ur 4 Ansur
AUROCHS THE MOUTH

The aurochs or w i l d buffal o i n d i cates Th is rune, which is more to do with the

p rogress, d eve l o p m e nt, the chance of d o m a i n of the s p i rit than that of the
express i n g yo u rself and showi ng what heart or the wal let, speaks of knowledge ,
you are capable of. I n love , a natural, ben­ education, and trai n i ng. It is a matter of
eficial change is taki ng place. Ur denotes a test, a tri al, a probati o n ary peri o d . I n
the male sexual i m p u lse and, therefore , love, you are i ngenuous, na·l·v e , a l ittle l i ke
passion seems stro nger o n t h e part of an ad o l escent, and yo u need a m o re
the man. capable o r m o re experi enced person
than yo u rself to give h o nest and d is i n ­
terested advice . Do not take any fu rther
action; fo r the moment, tal k, co m m u n i ­
cate , a n d exchange opin ions.

lS4
 N o r d i c ru n e s

S Rad 7 Geofu
T H E WHEEL THE GIFT

T his rune involves journeys, travel, move­ This rune involves exchanges, peace, and
ment, and restlessness. Beware of inde­ generosity, with particular relevance to
cision, so as not to mislead another the social and, of course, the romantic
person or yourself. In love, it is a matter domains. Meeting, contact, sharing, mar­
of coming to an understanding with your riage .. . you are on a j ourney of union.
partner, an exciting, if unconventional, This rune serves as a warning against lazi­
project, a double life or a double lan­ ness and hesitation. lt involves a gift, a kiss,
guage. Keep straight on but don't a beautiful love story that is j ust begin­
become complacent. Be ready to make ning. In a couple there is a unity of action
a U-turn, to change your view of the and intention. You are at one with your
other person, or to discover something partner : bravo!
or someone else.

6 Ken
T H E FLAME 8 Wynn
A positive rune that speaks of a new joY
romantic adventure, of sex, and action. This rune expresses joy in love; it speaks
Be optimistic, it is a matter of beginning of an unexpected meeting, an exchange
or beginning again. In love, a meeting is of feelings, of the harmony of a couple,
in the air: Sensuality, the fire of passion of physical pleasure ... and of happiness.
and warmth, will grow significantly. In a Profound and lasting affection, a power­
couple , the man is the guide , the one ful sentimental attachment, or an unfore­
who carries the flame and releases his seen idyl l : a change as positive as it is
positive energy. Rely on him. inevitable is going to materialize. Hold
onto your enthusiasm. Joy attracts joy.

lSS
 Nordic rune s

9 Hagall 11 Is
HAIL ICE

The hail that falls suddenly from the sky Don't be impatient if you have to put
expresses the hazards of life, the limits your plans on hold for the moment Here
imposed, and the pleasant or unpleasant it is a matter of lessening momentum,
surprises that existence reserves for us. interest or enthusiasm, a lack of ardor,
You are going to find yourself facing an passion, warmth or sincerity in your rela­
unexpected event a surprise or a shock, tionship; or again, one partner is not free
an interruption or a break. A decision or is afraid of openly expressing emo­
must be taken in response to circum­ tions. Wait for the situation to improve
stances beyond your control. by itself.Then, but only then, you can act.

10 Nied 12 Jara
TIME T H E HARVEST

This rune expresses patience, prudence, Quite simply, you are going to har vest
and endurance. In short it symbolizes what you have sown. So ever ything
time, the absolute master. In the situa­ depends on what you have chosen. In
tion that concerns or worries you, do not love , if there are grains of conflict the
be impatient greedy, or brutal. In love, the tempest is not far off; watch for the
omen is ambivalent or even somewhat storm! But if you are on the right path,
negative. Don't attempt anything now; one of sincerity towards yourself and
preserve the status quo. Each thing will towards others, you will be rewarded
happen in its own time. For the moment with the satisfaction of your desires, a
choose reflection over action and the fair return. In any case, what must be will
world of the spirit over that of the flesh. be.

156
 Nordic runes

13 Yr lS Eolh
THE BOW I M PETUS

This rune speaks of danger or the fact This ru ne is very positive . It speaks of a
of arm ing oneself against danger. I n any new, auspicious i nfl uence on you r emo­
case it i s a warn i ng. In m atte rs of l ove ti o n s , of l ove and friendsh i p, of m utual
don't be too trusti ng or too suspicious. confidence, of o pti m i sm and favorable
You must have discernment and fol l ow c h anges. Yo u h ave c o n fi d e n ce i n yo u r
a happy med i u m . The goal that you are partner and i n you r own feeli ngs, and you
seeking i s with i n yo u r reac h , but. to can trust you r i ntu iti o n to find the one
achieve it. you must n ow adapt to events yo u are looking fo r. Eol h p red i cts new
and to d ifferences of character; or change chal l e nges, ones that wi l l bring about
you r attitude towards your partner. beneficial changes.

14 Peorth
T H E SECRET

Is it a secret that you have not revealed?

A second c h an ce? S o m eth i n g that i s
16 Sigel
T H E SUN
retu rn i ng? Or a n opportun ity that pres­
ents itse lf? On the ro manti c fro nt. th i s Luck, success, and victory! Sigel sym bol­
rese m b l es a th row o f the d i e . Yo u wi l l izes the creative power of the Sun .This
meet with a n u nexpected opportun ity, i s re l axation after ten s i o n , the balance
p ro bably a pass i o n ate sexual re l ation­ found after a troubled period . l n love , th is
s h i p, a l iaison fou n d ed o n ly o n p hysical ru ne predicts a l u m i nous meeting, good
attraction and conseq uently desti ned to fortu ne, and a powerfu l i nfusion of ener­
exti ngu ish itself u n less it is fed. gy Sexual floweri ng, sensual pleasure, and
the sati sfact i o n of l ove . . . O n e caveat:
gu ard aga i n st excess, h e at stro ke , the
flash of love at first sight. and other resu lts
of exposure to the sun.

lS7
 N o r d i c ru n e s

1 7 Tir 19 Eoh
THE ARROW THE HORSE

There is com petition and rival ry in the This rune expresses movement a j o u r­
air! This rune speaks of battle , of victory, ney, change , and renewal. Don't wait for
of a c o n q u est to be m ad e , e ither of anyth i ng or anyone; take the reins q u ick­
another perso n o r of yo u rself. With ly i n hand. Be ready to change you r out­
sti mulation and motivation, you r enth u­ look, you r self, or you r habit s. The horse
siasm i s growi ng. In l ove , pass i o n and is a sign of progress, an openi ng, or a new
fidel ity go hand i n hand, physical attrac­ departure . Do not look beh i n d you; you
tion is real , and a sexual relationsh i p is i n need to move forward . Don't complai n ,
t h e offi ng. T h i s rune speaks more o f a don't reproach you rself at al l , be ready to
lover than a husband, of a mistress than travel physically or spiritually In romance
a wife , of a new liaison rather than a cur­ yo u will find someth i ng new.
rent one.

18 Beare 20 Mann
BIRCH T H E H U MAN BEING

This is a good omen for those who want Th i s rune sh ows the i nterdependence
to love each othe r for a long time and that exists between h u man bei ngs: the
to have many children. This rune evokes brotherhood and friendsh i p that binds
ferti l ity and fecund ity, the birth of a child them together. Look at t h i ngs d i spas­
or an idea, the growth and development sionately Remain cal m; exercise logic. Be
of a fee l i ng, or the begi n n i ng of a beauti­ carefu l not to i nflame an already volatile
fu l l ove sto ry. The p roj ects conce ived situation. Count on the support of oth­
now must be put i nto effect i m mediate­ ers, have faith , speak, l i sten, exchange
ly.The way to contentment l ies in sweet­ views, a n d , fo r the m o m e nt, look fo r
ness, te n d e rness and attenti o n to the com pan i o n s h i p and fri e n d s h i p rather
details of everyday l ife . than love and its possessiveness.

lS8
 N o r d i c ru n e s

23 D aeg
T H E DAY

A very positive ru ne that expresses pros­

21 Lagu perity and progress. It is the light of dawn
WATER after the night, the light at the end of the
t u n n e l . It pred i cts a change in l ove . You
Lagu represents the woman, the moth­ are going to ado pt a more positive atti­
e r, the daughter, the fem i n i n e in all its tude, and you wi l l have increased clarity of
aspects, i ntu ition and imagination. For a j u dgment, the o p po rtu n ity to i m p rove
man, it is a muse, an inspiration, but one you r relationship, and the chance to make
that rem a i n s d e p e n dent o n h i m . For a ge n u i n e and reci p rocal fee l i ngs grow. A
woman, it prom ises ferti l ity, artistic gifts, new dawn is rising over you r love l ife.
and the creative sense. l n love , Lagu fore­
casts emotion, hypersensitivity, premon­
itory d reams, fantasies, o r a fi ow of
memories. Let you rself be carried along
24 O dal
POSSESSION
by you r i nternal i m p u lses. You are i n the
cou rse of creating someth i ng. This rune evo kes eve ryth i ng that o n e
can b u y and, a s you know, love is not for
sale . . . I n its domain, Odal d isplays great
possessiveness, a fi n e p hysical appetite ,
with eyes bigger than its stomach.You are
go ing too q u ickly, you are i m pati ent o r
22 Ing j ealous, you r senses d o m i nate yo u, you
are fal l i ng for appearances or, again, you
ACCOMPLISHMENT
are indulging you r baser instincts. In th is
What a good omen! Sym bol of ferti l ity case , look out for problems.
and birth, this figure speaks also of every
ki nd of accompl ishment. Someth ing ends
and someth ing n ew beg i n s . Afte r the
chal l e nges comes the time of re l i ef, of
2 5 Wyrd
D ESTINY
sati sfact i o n , or eve n a turn i n g p o i nt i n
you r existence . A decisive meeti ng, mar­ The wh ite rune expresses the inevitable.
ital renewal, conception or birth . . . you Reward or pun ishment, that which is pre­
are on the eve of a new adventu re . ordained. Or it may only indi cate that the
oracle does not want to answer you. At
least, not now.

lS9
 A m aste rpiece of wisd o m , "The

The Book of C h an ges" i s o n e of the

fo u n d i n g texts of the Taoist

I Ching re l i g i o n , m o re than 3 ,000 years

o l d . Used by the C h i n ese for
d i v i n at i o n , it refl ects the i nter­
The Book action ofYin andYang.The I Ching
answers you r questions by describ­
of Changes
i n g the c u rrent situati o n , fo re-
. seeing developments, and advising
on the conduct to adopt i n order
to balance the fo rces and also to

' '
' .....
,, '

\ ..'
\.
I \ ....
\ '
I \ \

I '

I \ \
\
I \ \
I \ \
I ' \
 Co n s u lti n g th e o rac l e

Yan g , t h e act i ve sym b o l , i s re p re s e nted b y a n

u n b ro ke n l i ne: .••t
-

Y i n , the receptive sym b o l , i s re p resented by

a b ro ke n l i n e .

Fro m these l i nes,Y i n a n d Yang, eight trigrams are

fo rmed, eight figures each c o n s i sting of three l i nes.

Ch ' ien
The father; the creato r; the wi l l , the sky

Chen
The e l d e r s o n , the arouser; d i ffi c u lty, th u n der

K ' an
The m i d d l e son, the u n fath omabl e , danger; water

Ken
T h e yo u n gest s o n , i m m o b i l ity, re pose, m o u ntai n

K ' un
The m oth e r; the receptive , the gift of o n eself, the earth

162
 T h e I C h i n g . T h e B ook of C h a n g e s

Sun
The e l d e r daughte r; sweetness, penetrati o n , w i n d

Li
The m i d d l e daughter; the o n e who b e c o m e s attach e d , l ight -�-

Tui
The yo u ngest daughter; j oy, sti m u l at i o n , l ake

You will now draw a figure consisting of six li nes, a "hexagram," one
of the sixty-four figures of the I Chi ng. It will be the response to
your question.

l
Use th ree i d e ntical c o i n s , a penci l , and a sh eet of paper:

2
Q u i et yo u r m i n d a n d th i n k a b o ut yo u r q u esti o n . It m u st be a n
i m po rtant q u esti o n , o n e that re l ates parti c u l arly t o the h eart o r to
re l evant i ss u e s . The c l eare r t h e q u esti o n , t h e b ette r t h e I C h i ng's
response wi l l be.

3
Th row the t h ree co i n s at the same ti m e .

163
 T h e I C h i n g . T h e B o o k of C h a n g e s

4
Add u p t h e val u e of the th ree c o i n s . Ta i l s are wo rth 3 ; h eads are
wo rth 2.The total of the th ree co i n s wi l l always be
6 , 7, 8 or 9 .

s
If the res u lt is 7 or 9 , d raw a Yang ( u n b ro ken) l i n e:

l f th e res u lt i s
6 o r 8 , d raw a Yi n (bro ken) l i n e :

6
Th row the c o i n s five m o re times to o bta i n the s i x l i nes of the h exa­
gram. N ote that yo u m u st d raw the l i n e s fro m the bottom to the
top, each one above the p rev i o u s o n e .

7
D iv i d e what yo u h ave d rawn i nto three l ower l i n es and three u p per
ones, then l o o k them u p i n the tabl e o p p o s ite .

Exam ple
6 th l i n e

5 th
line Tui
4th l
ine

3rd l i n e

2"d l i n e Chen

1 st l i n e

Th i s fig u re i s n u m ber 1 7.

164
The I Ching , The Book of Changes

l6S
 I nte rp retati o n s

1 Ch ' ien 3 Chun

STRENGTH COMMENCEMENT

You must be active and creative but at For the moment, put you r ideas i n order
the same time steady i n yo u r decisions. and th ink of the steps you have to take .
Perseve re and act, n ot for you rself but Eve n if the o bj ective seems re m ote ,
for the common good. For the moment, d o n 't p ut thi ngs off; yo u have a great
do n ot d ive i nto anyth i ng. Conti n u e to chance of success. There is no action to
advance with confidence. Yo u wi l l suc­ be carried out i m mediately; wait for the
ceed because you are master of the sit­ right m o m ent Stay confi d e nt; yo u are
uation. only at the start, at the very start . . .

2 K ' un
DEPENDENCE
4 Meng
I N EXPERI ENCE
Show no i m patience. Do not act but let
you rself be guided; look for support and
guidance . Consolidate you r position. For For the m o m e nt. m o d e rate yo u r
the moment, be d i p l o m atic and recep­ appetites and d i sci p l i n e you rself Reflect,
tive to any signals that are sent to you . forge you r character. and do not act out
S h ow sweetness, cal m , a n d persever­ of anger. excitement, or passion. It is nec­
ance; and you wi l l accompl ish you r plans. essary to wait for the situation to stabi­
l ize itself or material ize before you carry
out any plans or launch any action.

166
 The I Ching , The Book of Changes

S Hsu 7 Shih
WAITI N G D I SC I PLI N E

You must wait. But n ote, be aware that Do n ot try to reach yo u r goal by a l l
waiti ng does not m ean s i m ply to hope m eans possi b l e , d o n ot d e n igrate any­
and d o n oth i ng. Rather it means to be o n e , and do n ot d e m a n d fro m oth e rs
certa i n of ach i evi ng the goal . For the qualities that you do n ot have yo u rself.
moment, relax, increase you r self-confi­ In you r situation, a l eade r who is able to
dence, and l et the situation deve l o p at organ ize is req u i red, and d isci p l i n e must
its own pace . Yo u r enterp rise wi l l suc­ be im posed. If you are confident i n you r­
ceed . . . i n its own time. self, take over the management of oper­
ations. If not, l eave it to other people.

6 Sung
CON FLICT 8 Pi
U N ION

No d o u bt, the atm osphere is te n s e .

There is a d isagreement, a power strug­ Yo u wi l l n ot find the an swe rs to yo u r
g l e , but yo u can contro l the p ro b l e m . q u esti o n s along a sol itary road . I f you
Don't be too am bitious, understand the want to travel alone , you will not reach
origi n of the problem, and put you rself you r goal . Si nce conditions are propel l i ng
a l ittle i n the place of the other person. you towards one o r several peo p l e , go
Even if you are right, favo r conci l iation fo r it! N ow i s a ti m e fo r m utual ass is­
over confl ict. You wi l l benefit from th is. tance, sol idarity, and union.

167
 T h e I C h i n g , T h e B o o k of C h a n g e s

9 Hsiao Ch ' u ll T ' ai

MODERATION PROSPERITY

Above a l l , d o n 't give in to i m patience The situati on is favorable and that is not
but move forward step by step, accom­ by chance! It i s thanks to yo u r tal ents
pl ishing smal l th i ngs on a daily basis that and yo u r q u a l ities that yo u h ave suc­
wi l l prod uce their effect in the long term. ceeded. Carry on i n th is way but do not
S i nce events obl ige you to pause , learn rest on the laure l s that yo u d o n ot yet
how to be content with what you have have . Si nce everyth i ng is ready to grow
and work on you rself and bloom, take advantage of this peri­
od to perfect you r actions and express
you r creativity. You will succeed.

10 Lu
PRECAUTIONS
12 P'i
STAG NATION
Do not try to accelerate the pace , over­
take others, or ach ieve you r ends at any
price . Be carefu l ; one false step and there As circumstances are now unfavorable,
will be confl ict! At th is moment you must you can not real ly take action. It is hard for
move forward with caution, on ti p-toe. I n you to com m u n i cate , to make you rself
th is way, you wi l l ach ieve success a l ittle understood, and to share . If you try to
later: advance or put you rself forward , you wi l l
end up b e i n g l e d astray; a n d that would
be dangerous. Forthe moment, remain i n
t h e shadows, withd raw i nto you rself. and
give you rself time to reflect.

168
 The I Ching , The Book of Changes

1 3 T ' ung ]en IS Ch ' ien

TOG ETHER S I M PLICITY

To enj oy the benefits of the u n i o n that You wi l l ach ieve success if you embrace
is in store for you, you must be very hon­ simplicity at all times. For the moment, do
est and sincere, and you must not act i n n ot ask too m u c h , do n ot excite j eal­
a secretive manner.That would condem n o u sy, d o n ot lie o r speak i l l of oth e rs.
you r enterprise to fai l u re . You r i nterest Remain i n yo u r p l ace and look at yo u r
l i es i n allying you rself with o n e perso n positive and negative qualities with clar­
or other peop le, in order to ach ieve the ity. I n crease the o n e and wo rk on the
benefits together, whether they be mate­ other, and you wi l l ach ieve success.
rial, emotional, or spiritual.

14 Ta Yu 16 Yu
ABU N DANCE ENTHUSIASM

You m u st r u l e yo u rself with a fi rm w i l l Do not give way to discouragement or

a n d act with sweetness and benevo lence the negativity of those around you . Free
towards those aro u n d yo u . Do n ot be yo u rself fro m gray, u n i n s p i red th i n ki ng,
afrai d , have confi d e n ce and act with have confidence in you rself. act with opti­
enth usiasm . Then you wi l l overcome all mism, and look at the situation i n a pos­
obstacles, even the most d iffi cu lt. itive way. From th is infectious enth usiasm
success wi l l soon fl ow!

169
 T h e I C h i n g . T h e B o o k of C h a n g e s

17 Sui 19 Lin
SU PPLENESS EXPANSION

N ow is the time to get rid of old prob­ Flushed with the exh i laration of success,
lems, resentments, and regrets. Be ready d o n 't become care l ess. Fro m n ow o n ,
to fo l l ow the o p p o rtu n ity of the you must b e vigi lant, because the positive
moment, perhaps even to change you r aspects wi l l soon be reversed. You must
way o f l ife . B e understandi ng. If you know th i n k about th is tu rnaround of the situa­
h ow to put yo u rself i n the positi o n of tion so as to protect you rself against the
someone else o r of othe r people, yo u d ifficult ies to come. Then, you wi l l make
wi l l succeed. you rself master again, and you wi l l suc­
ceed.

18 Ku
ERRORS 20 Kuan
STAN D I N G BACK

Beg i n by refl ect i n g on the causes that

have led you to th is detri mental situation. Sto p ! S h ow n o excite m e nt o r i rrita­
Then i ntroduce o rder i nto yo u r i d eas, tion . . . the situation demands that you
yo u r fee l i ngs, and yo u r l ife , and decide calm the fl ood of yo u r thoughts and
on another d i rectio n . Above al l , do not refl e ct calm ly. Yo u need c l arity befo re
l et the situat i o n d eterio rate fu rth e r ; lau n c h i ng an action or maki ng any ki nd
respond a n d all wi l l b e wel l . of decision.

170
 The I Ching , The Book of Changes

23 Po
D EC LI N E

Yo u m u st i m m e d i ately s u p p ress t h e N ow i s n ot the t i m e to take action o r

c a u s e s of d i sagre e m e nt and exerc i s e t o tran sfo rm the situati o n , eve n if it i s
authority t o e l i m i n ate what is not work­ unfavorable t o you at th is moment. Sim­
i n g. T h e re m u st be n o fee b l e n ess, n o ply be prudent and flexi ble.At this point,
l etting yo u rself go. Do n ot l et yo u rself inaction is not coward ice but wisdom.
be carri ed away by d i scuss i o n s b ut be
ready to cut, to j u dge , and if need b e ,
to punish.

22 Pi 24 Fu
SEDUCTION REN EWAL

D o n 't be i m patient; the h o u r fo r great O p e n yo u r eyes! It i s n ot a matte r of

actions has n ot yet stru ck. M eanwh i l e , prec i p itating thi ngs, oth e rwise yo u wi l l
work on harmon izing you r relationships. waste th is renewal that is j u st dawni ng.
Don't trust appearances; they may turn H ave no fear, everyth ing wi l l happen at
out to be mislead i ng. the right tim e-that i s , so l o n g as you
do not resort to d rastic measures.

171
 T h e I C h i n g , T h e B o o k of C h a n g e s

2 5 Wu Wang 27 I
THE U N EXPECTED TO I M PROVE

Avo id jealousy, covet noth i ng, and don't G uard agai nst all ki nds of excess, in par­
second guess you rself If you do, yo u wi l l ticular too much eating and drinki ng, and
be head i ng toward s fai l u re . F o r t h e going too fast.Treat you r body as a friend,
moment, do not make hasty decisions. Be n ot as a b u rd e n s o m e we ight. For the
sincere , perseveri ng, and ready to put i n time bei ng, cultivate you r character, show
effort. Then su ccess wi l l c o m e fro m an proof of you r patience and moderation
u nexpected q uarter. i n everyth i ng you do and, above al l , th i n k
before you speak.

2 6 Ta Ch ' u
AMBITION
2 8 Ta Kuo
EXCESS
Have confidence.You have considerable
assets, parti c u l arly fo r a s u b stantial o r
long-term p roj ect. Th i s i s the t i m e to Be aware that in the situati o n you are
reveal you r ambition, to surround you r­ in, violence or rush ing th i ngs wi l l ach ieve
self with other people and to take action noth i ng. I n this exceptional but tem po­
even if, o n the face of it, it seems d iffi ­ rary phase, plan a strategic withd rawal
cu lt. and , eve n if yo u m u st retreat fo r some
ti m e , do n ot be d i sco u rage d . Light w i l l
emerge from loneli ness!

172
 The I Ching, The Book of Changes

29 K ' an 31 Hsien
DANGER ATTRACTION

You must avo i d danger and the repeti­ If you are o p e n , receptive to those
tion of danger, and you must show proof around you, and attentive to the i r prob­
of cal m ness, prudence, and confidence i n lems but also capabl e of understan d i ng
you rselfTh ink o fthe important goals, not the guidance that is offered to you, then
of easy, superficial, or short-term matters. you wi l l achieve success.There i s no sig­
Don't be d iscouraged; if you are si ncere , nificant action to fol l ow; sim ply be ready
really si ncere, you wi l l succeed. to j o i n in.

32 Heng
30 Li PERSEVERANCE
fiRE

Yo u m u st cu ltivate stead i n ess. Keep to

D o n 't th i n k that you are c o m p l etely yo u r c o u rs e , th i n ki n g n ot of the s h o rt
i n d e p e n d e nt, d o n 't act i n a v i o l e nt o r term , but of the futu re . Look fo r conti­
i m p u lsive manner, a n d don't let you r fi re nu ity, loyalty, and patience. Don't take on
tu rn i n on you rself. For the time bei ng, too much but make progress slowly, i n a
discipline you rself and take a secondary single d i rection .Then, you will succeed.
ro l e . Be d eterm i n ed and d o n 't waste
you r energy.

173
 T h e I C h i n g , T h e B ook of C h a n g e s

33 Tun 3S Chin
RETIREMENT PROGRESS

There is n o battle to engage in and no In th is situation, which is very favorable,

act i o n to take . O n the co ntrary, calm move fo rward with pe rseve rance and
you r spi rit find grounds for understand­ equan i m ity; d o n 't be afraid of anyth ing
ing and, progressively, you w i l l take thi ngs or anyone. Don't be too am bitious, and
in hand.This may seem paradoxi cal but don't reproach you rself for not profiting
you wi l l ach ieve su ccess even if, for the e n o ugh fro m the s ituati o n . In this way
moment you are not trying to move for­ you will tri u m p h over every obstacle.
ward.

3 4 Ta 36 Ming I
DARKNESS
Chuang
ASCENT
Don't let you rself s l i p i nto a spiral of sad­
ness. Don't try to make an i m p ression on
Th i s is a very favo rabl e period. Yo u are others. Con ceal yo u r strengths, d o n 't
capable of maki ng yo u r id eas progress take on too m u c h , and d o n 't l o o k fo r
and of bringing yo u r undertaki ngs to a h e l p . For the m o m e nt, l eave th i ngs as
satisfactory conclusion. Don't relax you r they are .Your strength must be for you r­
efforts, and d o n 't c o u nt o n the l a u re l s self, not others.
you have not yet won. Persevere , move
ahead , and act with o ut a b u s i n g yo u r
power: Success is at hand.

174
 The I Ching , The Book of Changes

37 Chia Jen 39 Chien

T H E G ROUP T H E OBSTACLE

At the moment you won 't find success C u rrent c i rc u m stances enable yo u to
in the external wo rld. Stay with i n you r take stock of the situation. Revise yo u r
own c i rcle o f fam i ly, fri e n d s , o r l oved plans, make a balance sheet or a n exam­
ones. The moment has come to estab­ ination of conscience, and free you rself
l i sh sincere re lati onships and to remain fro m what no is longer appropriate for
l oyal to yo u r com m itments. G rand yo u . Yes, it i s wise to sto p yo u rself and
speeches wi l l not be effective; speak with perhaps even to take a step backwards.
you r heart rather than with you r mind. One ste p back can l ead to two ste ps
forward.

40 Hsieh
38 K ' uei DELIVERANCE
OPPOSITION

Better conditions of life are return i ng or

Above al l , d o n 't carry o n in a brusque an obstacle has been removed. It is now
or d i rect manner because you wi l l cre­ n ecessary to free yo u rself of the l ast
ate eve n stronger oppositi o n . For the seeds of confl i ct, n ot to l i nger o n the
moment, focus on smal l improvements, fau lts you have comm itted but to fi n ish as
re m a i n cal m , and be carefu l . D i stance q u ickly as possible so as to make a cl ear
you rself from those who have noth ing to space for someth i ng new. This response
offer yo u , and become closer to those augu rs am ity. forgiveness, and reconcil ia­
who can help you effectively. tion.

l7S
 T h e I C h i n g , T h e B o o k of C h a n g e s

41 Sun 43 Kuai
MODERATION D ETERMI NATION

C i rc u m stances are d i ffi c u lt at the Put an end to confused or dubious situ­

m o m e nt, but d o n 't be b itte r; d o n 't be ati o n s . D o n 't c o m p ro m ise with oth e r
ashamed, and don't envy anyone. For the p e o p l e o r with yo u rself. Yo u m u st act
time bei ng, m o d e rate yo u r l ifesty l e , with determ i n ati o n ; d o n 't hes itate to
red uce you r passions a n d appetites, and tran sform th i ngs rad ically if n ecessary.
return to greater s i m p l icity. In th is way Be resolute, even if that means creating
you wi l l find the i nternal strength neces­ friction.
sary for you r next success.

44 Kou
42 I TEM PTATION
I NCREASE

Don't give i n to tem ptation! Be wary of

Yo u r situati o n is good if n ot excel lent! trying to i m p ress, of false p ro m i ses, of
You are i n a fortu nate , successfu l phase. what seems flashy or fabulous. If a person
The oracle speaks of growth and expan­ or a situation i n it ially seems i noffensive ,
s i o n , and it is respo n d i ng positively to look out. There is a risk that he, she, or it
you r question. But look out, you wi l l have wi l l turn against you or man i p u l ate you.
to put in some effort to take advantage Be very carefu l .
of this favorable period.

176
 The I Ching . The Book of Changes

4 5 Ts ' ui 47 K ' un
GATHERING ADVERSITY

To achieve success, it is necessary hence­ Weakness, sadness, and regrets must be

forth to start an action, to accept guid­ e l i m i nated i m m ed i ate ly. Above al l , yo u
ance from re l i able people, to establ ish m u st n ot give i n to d i scouragem e nt.
solid l i n ks, and to gather together what Identify you r m i stakes so as to co rrect
is scattered. Also be aware that precau­ them, remai n i ng sere n e i n the face of
tions must be taken because confi icts can advers ity. Meet yo u r c o m m itme nts,
easily come i nto existence. remain loyal to you rself, and th i n k of the
future rather than the past.

46 Sheng 48 Ching
SUCCESS E N DEAVOR

Yes, success will defin itely appear and, to To resolve the questio n that was asked,
ach i eve it, it is necessary s i m ply to p ut you must express what you are keeping
yourself to work, to supply the necessary deep with i n yo u rself. Effo rts m u st be
effort.That's it, go forward, look for peo­ made and a personal search i nto yourself
ple who possess power and authority, must be undertaken. Establ ish the rules
and show them you r talents. Th is is the of a healthy l ife and follow them. For the
sign of a p ro m oti o n , of an u pward m o m e nt, d o n 't con cern yo u rself with
trend . . . bravo! other peop l e , o r anothe r person , but
only with you rself.

177
 T h e I C h i n g . T h e B o o k of C h a n g e s

49 Ko Sl Chen
CHAN G I N G T H E U N EXPECTED

If you understand that change is neces­ Faced with e m oti o n s that can tro u b l e
sary, then yo u wi l l ove rcome every you r m i n d , you must preserve you r j udg­
obstac l e . Yo u wi l l have recogn ized that ment and not give in to anxiety, lack of
th is is natural and you wi l l be master of concern or i m patience .T he situation that
events because they wi l l no longer scare i nterests you has o n ly to begi n . For the
you . lt is the end of someth i ng, the begi n­ moment, relax. I n th is way yo u wi l l rec­
n i ng of someth i ng else, and th is heralds ognize the o p p o rtun ities that are to
great success! come.

SO Ting
T H E GOOD WAY 52 Ken
STI LLN ESS

This is the time to i m p rove yo u rself, to

pe rfect yo u rself, and to kee p yo u rself Attention, don't let you r thoughts go fur­
ready to welcome what is new. Move for­ therthan the situation req u i res.Above all
ward cal m ly and with determ ination; pay d o n 't try to move fo rward , o r yo u wi l l
attention to all events, even minor ones, � n d you rself once more at a dead end.
that may occu � Then you wi l l be ready It is better to rest yo u r body and yo u r
to ach ieve great th i ngs! m i n d , t o re l ax, if o n ly fo r a few h o u rs.
Th e n , b ut only then, can yo u beg i n to
move forward agai n .

178
 T h e I C h i n g , T h e B ook of C h a n g e s

S3 Chien ss Feng
D EVELOPMENT RAD IANCE

Whether it is a matter of love or work, There is nothing to be afraid of; every­

don't be in a hurry to do well, or you thing will go well! So, enjoy yourself, take
will do badly. Look at things in the long advantage of what you already have, and
term and let your plan progress through allow others to benefit as well. This
each stage of devel opment. It is a plan response is the sign of great radiance
that demands patience and steadfast­ and, without any doubt, you will reach
ness.You are well aware of that . . . your goals.

S4 Kuei
S6 Lu
Mei I NSTABILITY
AMBIGU ITY

When you can not put yourself to the

You want immediate satisfaction , but that fore, when your position is unstable, you
is a mistake. Before associating yourself must be careful and reserved and
with others, or another individual, know choose your relationships and associ­
your opin ions and express them clearly. ates with care. In particular, you must
For the moment, don't give in to impul­ not be insistent or hang idly about.Then,
siveness and don 't make decisions out you can continue on your way. It is a jour­
of passion or impatience. In short, be rea­ ney that will lead, in time, to success.
sonable . . .

179
 T h e I C h i n g , T h e B o o k of C h a n g e s

57 Sun 59 Huan
M I LDNESS D I SPERSION

In yo u r situation, d o n 't look fo r violent You w i l l arrive at a positive result if you

methods and don't give i n to im patience th ink of others as wel l as you rself Don't
but act with gentleness, developing you r act d ramatical ly, accept thi ngs as they are ,
ideas l ittle b y l ittle.Take you r time, take renew the threads of dialogue, and look
the long term view, and be determ ined; for reconcil iati on.
then you wi l l overcome every obstacle.

58 Tui
joY 60 Chieh
LIMITATIONS

D o n 't kee p what yo u fee l to yo u rself;

share it with others. Yes, joy is i nfectious Above al l , avo i d excess and i m p u lsive
and that is why you must conti nue on the actions. Be aware that even freedom has
path that you are taki ng. The exchange its l i m its. For the moment, decide on a
of fee l i ngs and ideas wi l l result i n enrich­ rule of conduct and fol l ow it Save you r
ment for all concerned. stre ngth, d i sci p l i n e yo u rself, a n d d o n 't
be lax or too severe , eit her with others
or with you rself

180
 The I Ching , The Book of Changes

61 Chung Fu 63 Chi Chi

S I N CERITY BALANCE

You w i l l fi n d you rself facing recalcitrant T h i s o rac l e e n co u rages yo u to refi ect

people who are hard to i nfi uence or very on the course of events, to maintai n you r
d ifferent from yo u. Rid you rself of prej­ efforts and, i n particu lar; t o remain vigi­
ud ice and theoretical assumptions. Don't lant. Don't give i n to the easy o ption.You
deceive you rself If you are sincere oth­ m u st s h ow stre ngth and fi r m n ess, and
ers wi l l resp o n d , and yo u will be suc­ thus you wi l l hold o nto the resu lts you
cessfu l . have ach ieved .

6 2 Hsiao 64 Wei Chi

RESPONSIBI LITI ES
Kuo
ECONOMY
Do n ot e m bark u p o n b o l d or prec i p i ­
to us actions.The situation is d ifficult but
Be h u m b l e , gentle and carefu l , because, may turn out wel l , as long as you are very
fo r the m o m ent, yo u can n ot ach i eve carefu l . Advance step by step and exam­
great th i ngs. On the oth e r h a n d , pay ine the i nterplay ofthe people and forces
attenti o n to d etails, fi l l i n the gaps, and that surround you. Th i n k fi rst, then act.
save you r strength, you r ideas, and you r
money. You r future success w i l l depend
on these econom ies.

181
 d e a n s , Egyptians, H e b rews,
tiliU! !;; e . H i n d u s , G re e ks . . . a l l o f

""'"�"�"•""c or to acq u i re knowledge

red t h i ngs. I n the co u rse of

.,,..,, n r .. ..•es, n u m bers l ost their

t w·... n ti.,•th c e n t u ry, n u m e ro l ogy

reap peared as a means of study­

i n g p e rso n a l i ty. T h re e wo m e n
origi n al ly from t h e west coast of
the U n ited States were the source

Numerology
of some s i m p l e and effective

1 1. dL IIt.i
 U s i ng n u m e ro l ogy

I n n u m e ro l ogy, l ife is d ivided i nto cyc l e s of n i n e years.

1
To fi n d o ut w h at year of t h e cyc l e yo u a re i n a n d w h at yo u m ay
expect, add together the month a n d the d ay of your birth a n d
the year that you want t o study. (Th e yea r of yo u r b i rth i s n ot
taken i nto accou nt.)

2
Red u c e the res u lt to o bta i n a n u m b e r between I and 9 .

Example:

Pred i cti o n for the year 2005

fo r a person born on August 22nd (8/22) :

8 + 22 + 2005 = 2035

20 3 5 , that i s 2 + 0 + 3 + 5 = I 0

and I 0 is I + 0 = I

I n 2005 , th i s person b o rn on August 22nd wi l l be i n year I , the fi rst

year of the n ew cyc l e .

184
 Numerology

The symb olism of numb ers

4 is stabi l ity, the

sym bol of fu l fi l l ­
ment, d i s c i p l i n e ,
work, and
constructi o n .
5 i s halfway 3 i s expans i o n , the
between I and 9 . sym b o l of express ive­
I t i s t h e free ness. creativity,
arbiter, the sym bol c o m m u n icati o n , and
of l i be rty, m o b i l ity, I is the principle of
adaptation.
and change. creation, t h e sym bol
of energy, acti o n ,
a n d enth usiasm.

9 marks ach i eve­

ment It i s the
2 is d u al ity, the sym­ sym bo l of the ideal
bol of associatio n , and of altru i s m ,
i ndependence, a n d and it i s t he
balance or loss o f n u m ber of t he
balance. h u m an d i me n s i o n .

6 i s harmony, the
sym bol of pe rfection,
balance, and respon­
s i b i l ity.
8 i s materia l i s m , t h e
sym bol of ambiti o n ,
p ower, success, a n d
7 i s spi ritual ity, the autho rity.
sym bol of refl ec­
tion, wisdom, and
research i nto truth.

l8S
 I nte rp retati o n s

Year 1

Move forward! Don't wal low in the past At wo rk

or regret what might have been; th is year N ow is the time to change d i rection and
p uts you on the starting l i n e . N ow it is to com m it you rself to a new, u n known
necessary to look far ahead, to launch course. Do someth i ng d iffe rent, some­
yo u rself i nto a new adve ntu re a n d , if thing that is worthwh ile, and gam ble with
need be, to return to zero. Or rather. to the future. Begin an activity, i nterest you r­
I ! A new cyc l e of n i n e years is getting self i n what yo u d o not kn ow, and p ut
under way so this i s the t i m e to carry you r own tal ents i nto effect. Don't wait
out new plans and to have faith in them. for anyone's help; rely only on you rself.

What yo u s h o u l d do As a cou p l e
In year I , all that is needed is to begi n . You may feel a l ittle isolated-th is is nor­
Be a l ittl e bit ego i stic, act fo r yo u rself, mal i n year I . Don't stay tied to anyone
and enjoy yo u rself. Yo u wi l l n ot yet be but be i n d e p e n d e nt, fo l l ow yo u r own
aware of what is i n the process of chang­ path, stand back o r even far away. For
i n g in yo u r l ife , but yo u wi l l n otice t h i s you, rebi rth is i n the air. Warn you r part­
m o re i n the cou rse the cyc l e . For the ner that you need yo ur freedom.
moment, th row you rself i nto it.
O n yo u r own ?
To avo i d I n this year of autonomy, l ive comfortably
Avo id stand i ng sti l l . Don't try to bring a with you rse lf, appreciating and develop­
matter to a conclusion, work on what is ing yourtalents.A l itt le later. you wi i i iT]eet
past, rest on you r laurels, or devote you r­ the person with whom yo u w i l l sh are
self to oth ers. D o n 't worry about the th i ngs.
details, just turn on the ign iti on and step
on the gas.

186
 N u m e r o l o gy

Year 2

If the past year has brought you to a new At wo rk

environment, if a situation h as taken Don't seek to do things on your own.
shape, or if a person has appeared, you Your are going to go i nto partnersh ip,
are now going to cooperate closely. Year sign a contract, work as part of a team,
2 is the year of union and disunity. In the collaborate , and use your strengths i n
event of profound disagreement or common. But also look out for tensions
opposition , a break-up is likely with your superiors or colleagues and, if
need be, the end of a partnership or a
What you s h o u l d do cooperation .
This is the period for consolidating an
association, or even for marriage . Go A s a cou p l e
towards others, or another person, T he number 2 looks both ways. Every­
emerge from your egoism, your solitude, thing depends on your current situation.
and your shell. Be happy to take part in If your love was fioundering, it will fall to
the world that surrounds you. the ground.There may be a temporary
or fi nal separation ; in this case, it is the
To avoi d other person who will decide it. O n the
Impatience and brusqueness. Don't pro­ positive side, look for associations, rec­
voke tensions because you can easily on ciliation, a stimulating sharing of life,
come into confiict.T hings will move slow­ and unknown sensual horizons.
ly, and you will be dependent on some­
one else or other people. Since it is the On you r own ?
time for discussion, negotiation , and the Now is the time to meet someone! Year
establishment of common goals, be fiex­ 2 announces a con nection , hitting it off
ible, perceptive, and diplomatic. with someone, goals in common .. . a
couple is forming! E ngagement? M ar­
riage? Ever yt hing is possible, so open
your eyes and your heart.

187
 N u m e r o l o gy

Year 3

Good news: the n u m ber 3 expresses a At wo rk

bu rst of speed, an acceleration of move­ Don't look for responsibil ity, promotion,
m e nt! I n yo u r l ife , situati o n s are go i n g o r fi n an c i a l benefits. S p read yo u rself
t o reach a new level. Everyth ing moves about a bit. It is the moment to express
q u ickly! It is an i nteresti ng, vo lati le peri­ you r talents, to do someth ing else or i n
od, with m any aspects and many another way, t o inform you rself, t o com­
encounters. m u n i cate , and to m ove abo ut. There is
also a leisure or creative activity that you
What you shou l d do want to do and h ave n ot yet started .
Throw you rself into th is year of renewal N ow is the time.
without preconceived ideas, without
ready-made assumptions. Let yourself be As a cou p l e
carried. Be inqu isitive, open, and eager to It i s a time of dai ly re newal . Yo u r l i fe
learn, to know, and to meet others. Move, together is e n riched by co ntacts with
change, and travel . . . amuse yourselft new acq uai ntances and new friends. Per­
haps there is a m ove i n sto re , h o m e
To avoi d expansion, or t h e birth o f a c h i l d .
Sad ness, melancho ly, and d u l l ness. You r
ro uti ne wi l l b e shaken u p a n d you r l iv­ O n you r own ?
ing habits wi l l take a knock. Don't try to An auspicious period!Your contacts mul­
h o l d o n to you r reference p o i nts at a l l tip ly, there i s the d i scovery of anoth er
costs; o n the co ntrary, y o u m u st adapt p l ace, and there are o uti ngs, amuse­
yo u rself to th i s pace and fo l l ow the ments, and travel . . . you r enthusiasm wi l l
movement, even if you feel rushed. bring i m itators. This year; express you r­
self, fl i rt and vary you r pleasu res.

188
 N u m e r o l o gy

Year 4

N ow, you have to rol l u p you r sleeves and At wo rk

get down to work! 4 is the square num­ The atmosphere is not pleasant or l ight.
ber; fixed and weighty, indicating a period Yo u are asked to c o m e to terms with
of stab i l izat i o n . Last year was the t i m e yo u r responsi b i l ities, and even those of
fo r sam p l ing d iffere nt experiences a n d others to you rself, to make great efforts.
adventu res; transformati on is sti l l i n the to acco m p l ish yo u r task, in s h o rt . . . to
future .That wi l l be for the next year. N ow work. Be seri ous, d i sci pl ined, and deter­
it is a matter of mai ntai n i ng. preserving. m i ned, and you will move forwards.
and completing what already exists.
As a c o u p l e
What you s h o u l d do The situation remains steady, which is not
Dig a solid foundation for your existence , too bad . . . The year 4, m o re ce ntered
d i scove r; or red i scover; yo u r refe rence o n work than o n fee l i ngs, above a l l
p o i nts. sti c k to what yo u know and to enables y o u t o estab l i sh re l i abl e , so l i d
what yo u have . Of course. the pace of fo u n d at i o n s . fro m w h i c h togeth e r yo u
th is year is slow.You will have obl igations will grow. Fidel ity and honesty are essen­
toward s oth e rs and toward s yo u rself. tial.
Take the helm and move forward slowly
and stead i ly. On you r own ?
Anyth ing can happen, of c o u rse, b ut it
To avo i d m u st be said that the n u m be r 4 does
I m pati ence and lack of conce ntrati o n . not bode wel l for meeti ng new people.
D o n 't t r y t o s p e e d th i ngs u p o r r u s h N umber 5 wi l l be perfect for th at. For the
p e o p l e o r situati o n s , b u t tie u p l o ose ti m e bei ng. l earn to wait and be com­
ends, restri ct yo u rse lf. and econom ize . fortable with you rself.Yo u r patience wi l l
There is noth ing to ch ange , but every­ be rewarded.
th i ng to organ ize .

189
 N u m e r o l o gy

Year S

You have arrived at the halfway point i n At work

t h e cycle o f 9 years, at t h e very m i d d l e At the end of the year, wi l l you be doing
o ft h e ford .Year n u m ber 5 is a transitional the same th ing as today? N oth i ng is less
year. In it, th i ngs are go i ng to affect yo u l i kely! Open up the field of the possible:
and situations are changing.You are going change yo u r d i rectio n , you r ideas, you r
to renew yo u rself and b reak with the speci alty, you r job, yo u r e m p loyer, yo u r
past. What can n ot l ast any l o nger wi l l route , o r you r timetable .T here i s a super­
d i sappear, wh i l e what i s new w i l l make charged atmosphere , a frantic pace, stress
its appearance . is there, yes, but it wi l l motivate you .

What you s h o u l d do A s a couple

It is the moment to shake u p you r rou­ Yo u wi l l fee l i n d e p e n d e nt and c o n se­
tine and th row yo u rself i nto the quently anyth i ng can happen. If you r sit­
u n known . You are i m patient, that is nor­ u at i o n is d iffi c u lt, yo u wi l l c h oose the
m a l , but you are also active , ready to e m e rgency exit, yo u wi l l see anoth e r
change you r d i rection or desti nation. Go s i d e , a n d you wi l l l ive you r own l ife . Th i s
with it, be confident, fol l ow you r impu ls­ year, you m u st re new yo u rself, either
es, and bet on what is new. alone or together.

To avoi d O n you r own ?

Stagnat i o n . D o n 't o rga n i ze t h i ngs too T h i s year has been d e d i cated to yo u !
much, let i n air, l ight, and new faces. Don't Many encounters, love at fi rst sight, pas­
put the brakes on movement, fo l low the sion in all its forms, new experiences . . .
fiow even if it seems fast and dangerous. don't make too much of them but wait
The only m i stake wou l d be m issing the for next year to take a decision or involve
opportu n ities that present themselves. you rself completely

190
 Numerology

Year 6

I n the cycle of 9 years, one year is con­ At work

sidered particularly beneficial: year 6.T h is Excellent prospects! There is progress, a
bri ngs bal m to the heart, the spi rit, and promotion, an increase i n you r i ncome,
the bank acco u nt; it i m p roves the ord i ­ you r talents are recognized, and you are
nary and c a n reveal the extraord i nary. an artistic s u ccess. The atmo s p h ere i s
Thi ngs fl ow from the s o u rce, re l ati o n ­ cal m , harm o n i o u s , a n d p ro d u ctive . Yo u
s h i p s are created, a n d harmony prevails. wi l l have the needed self-confidence. It
Life seems simple. is u p to you to begi n ; you will be reward­
ed.
What you s h o u l d d o
G ive and receive . This year cal ls for the As a cou pl e
sense of responsibil ity, matu rity, and gen­ Th i s is a ferti le period i n every sense of
erosityYou are going to cross a th reshold, the word.You will decide to l ive togeth­
grow, and even blossom. Conti nue to be er; you wi l l buy a house, you wi l l get mar­
you rself, love other people, and you will ried, you wi l l expect a child, or the fam i ly
find a meani ng to you r l ife. wi l l take on a particu lar i m portance .Th is
year yo u wi l l be capable of receiving
To avoi d everyth ing that love has to offer you.
Egoism that makes you miss the chance
of bei ng happy. Restlessness that wi l l pre­ On you r own ?
vent yo u from d o i n g important thi ngs, Enj oy yo u rself] The eve nts of the past
from decid i ng on a d i rection and taki ng year wi l l fal l i nto p l ac e . The t i m e h as
you r l ife i n hand. come for beco m i ng i nvo lved, for meet­
ing someone, for getting engaged or for
getting together. Ded icated to love , year
6 reserves its sweet, j u icy fru its for you.
I n d u lge you rself!

191
 Numerology

Year 7

The seven days of creation, and on the A t wo rk

seventh day the Lord rested . . . Year 7 Apart fro m a s u d d e n tran sfer, d o n 't
demands detachment. depth, and reflec­ expect to make u pward p rogress. Be
tion. It is a year of some isolation, del ib­ origi nal, th ink more about you rself than
erate or invo l u ntary. It puts q uestions to yo u r wo rk, and d o n 't take any fu n d a­
you, and you do not yet have the answers mental decisions. Escape from it and take
for decision, action, or ach ievement.That a sabbatical yea�
wi l l be i n year 8 . The u n even n u m ber 7
re lates to the m e ntal , i nte l l ectu a l , and As a co u p l e
s p i ritual d o m a i n . In th is area, yo u are You are going to ask yourself some ques­
goi ng to matu re . tions, perhaps about someone else, and
certa i n ly about yo u rse lf. What i s the
What yo u shou l d d o qual ity of you r love and you r ties? If you
T h e pace is slow or u p a n d down . I t is are i n doubt. you wi l l bring about a tem­
the time to study, to look for th i ngs, and porary break; if there is a major prob­
to u n d e rsta n d . Ask yo u rself what yo u lem, the break wi l l be fi nal .
want. choose to l ive you r life , and ques­
tion yo u rself. There is the possi b i l ity of On you r own ?
escape, of trave l i ng in body or mind, or of I n year 7 the co rrect way m u st be fo l ­
sawing through the bars of you r cage . lowed, s o th is year cel ibacy wi l l be good
fo r yo u . But look out. not everyth ing is
To avo i d dete rm i n e d . Th e re is someth i n g u n ex­
D o n 't try to earn m o n ey, seize power, pected in the air . . .
or cause a parti cu lar situati o n to hap­
pen. Also, it is usel ess to look ahead or
make p l ans; year 7 i s o n e of su rprises
and the u nexpected.

192
 Numerology

Year 8

Th is is the year of achievement.What you At work

h ave sown i n previ o u s years wi l l n ow Depending upon you r cu rrent situation,
finds its reward-or its pun ishment, it all year 8 wi l l bring an excel lent promotion,
depends on what you have sown . . . So m ate rial su ccess, the ac h i eve m e nt of
this wi l l be a peak, the recogn ition of you r someth ing substantial, or fi nancial gai ns;
work, t h e fru it o f you r efforts, a n d a just o r; i n the case of i m p rovi dence, it i n d i ­
return for what you have done. Alterna­ cates loss, fai l u re , or penalties. You have
tively, if you have been improvident, unjust the contro l s i n yo u r hand, and yo u are
or lazy, it wi l l be a pai nfu l time. i n possess i o n of the p ower to act o n
events. U s e it.
What y o u shou l d do
Take th i ngs in hand, make a decision, sign As a cou p l e
up, accept or refuse, but don't d ither:This You make thi ngs official, you say "yes," you
year req u i res yo u to take o n all yo u r l ive together; you decide to have a child,
responsi b i l ities, t o advance , t o d evelop, you buy an apartm ent or a house, yo u
to engage you rself, and to make a choice. i nvest and you h ave a l ot of e m ot i o n
N ow yo u r tho ughts and act i o n s are i nvested . B u t fee l i ngs are powe rfu l , s o
going to become a real ity watch out fo r jealousy! I n the event o f
a n actual problem, there wi l l be a break­
To avo i d u p and th is time you 're the one who wi l l
Absenteeism, letting thi ngs go, i d l eness, decide on it.
i l l u s i o n s , hes itati o n , loss of self-confi­
dence, and fear of growi ng up. On you r own ?
What you have previously overcome wi l l
n ot have b e e n i n vai n ! There may be a
meeting, a decisive choice, a long nego­
tiation su ccessfu l ly concluded, ties that
we re n ot apparent b ut h ave n ow
become so, or else there is the exh i lara­
tion of the senses and fiery passions.

193
 Numerology

Year 9

The fi nal year of you r cycle. But before At work

begi n n i ng another year; yo u m u st free Th i s is the m o m ent to extricate yo u r­
yo u rself fro m excess, from what n o self fro m a positi o n i n w h i c h you fee l
longer su its you, slows you down, irritates trapped, t o put a n e n d t o the arrange­
you or exhausts you . Th is cleansing wi l l ment, to hand in your resignation, to sell
completely restore you once more and this house or that busi ness, to take retire­
in the month of October you wi l l set off ment, to separate you rself from respon­
agai n on a new nine-year cycle! s i b i l ities, to re l ax the p ressure , and to
get out of your rut.
What you should do
Fi rst, rid yo u rself of i d eas that are no As a couple
l onger cu rrent, o bjects that we igh yo u If th i ngs are go i ng wel l , look forward to
down, situat i o n s that com p l i cate yo u r the c u l m i n ati o n of you r re l at i o n s h i p , a
existence, and p e o p l e who b r i n g you better knowledge ofthe other person, or
noth ing. With whom and with what, are the d i scovery of a new understandi ng. If
you going to begin again? your situation is difficult, there is a tem­
porary remoteness; if it is very d ifficult,
To avoid there wi l l be a break-up and, in this case,
Materialism, hunger for power, violence, the other person wi l l decide on it.
and ego i s m . Take the heat o ut of the
debate and look at you r situation from On you r own ?
h igher up, from fu rther away. Year 9 speaks more of friendly ties than
sentimental ones.Th is is the moment to
cultivate friendsh i p, to travel , and to d is­
cover oth er ways of l ife . Be o p e n and
generous, feel free but do not start any­
th i ng i m p o rtant befo re the m o nth of
October. For the time being, bring th ings
to a concl usion.

194
 O r i g i n a l l y borrowed fro m t h e
Yoruba people o f Nigeria, t h i s div­

]ago
i n atory game u s i n g cowrie s h e l l s
was brought t o B razi l by t h e slaves
in the sixteenth and seve nteenth

do s
centu ries-h e n c e its n a m e Jogo
dos b u z i o s , "the gam e of the
c owri es." T h e shells answe r yo u r
q u esti ons through t h e i ntermedi­

buzios ary of the O rixas, the gods of the

Santeria Afro - B raz i l ian re l i g i o n .
Cowries have a smooth s i d e , known

Brazilian as "closed:' and a side with a n ar­

row open i ng, know n as "ope n ."

divination T h ey can be re p l aced by oth e r

small shells found on beaches.
 H ow to go abo ut it

l
F i n d sixteen s h e l l s or coffee beans.

2
F i n d a p l ace where yo u wi l l be q u i et, with a sandy or beaten earth
s u rface or eve n a wooden su rface s u c h as a tab l e . If poss i b l e , have
someone beat a d ru m .

3
D raw a c i rc l e on the gro u n d to mark the b o u n dary of the space
d evoted to the gam e of d ivi n ati o n . I f wo rki n g o n a tab l e , d raw an
i magi n ary c i rc l e .

4
Ask t h e q u esti o n e r to l i sten to t h e d r u m with eyes c l o s e d , t h e n
when i t fal l s s i l e nt, t o concentrate o n the q u esti o n .

s
Take the s i xteen s h e l l s or coffee beans i n yo u r h a n d s , b r i n g t h e m
cl ose to yo u r fo rehead, then th row them o n the gro u n d o r tab l e .

6
C o u nt the s h e l l s that s h ow th e i r o p e n s i d e . If you are u s i ng coffee
beans, c o u nt the s l it s i d es.

7
Read the i nterpretat i o n and gu i d ance of the sym bol i n d i cated by the
n u m b e r of open s h e l l s .

198
 ]ago dos buzio s . Brazilian divination

The Orixas

Oxala Yemanj a
Father of the O rixas, h e i s the " M other of pearls" and divi n ity of
begi n n i ng and the end. He sym bol­ the oceans, she embodies the fam­
izes peace and equ i l i bri um. i ly and procreati on. She feeds, nurs­

(ji)
es, and protects the you ng.

Oxum
Goddess of the rivers and c l ear,
fresh waters, she embodies beau­
X an go �
At the sound of drums and music,
ty, sensual ity, and artistic tal e nt. Xango is thunder and l ightning.A vir­
Fem i n i n e and receptive, she is also ile protector; he embodies authori­
capricious and jealous. ty, willpower; and domination.

Exu
Sentry, guard i a n , and m a n ki n d 's
Oxossi ®
A two-faced god, one face positive
am bassador to the Orixas, he is the and dynam i c , and the othe r artis­
tem pter: As wild as he i s creative , tic, d reamy, and passive.
he destroys and transforms i n
order to rebuild.
Nana
Rai n goddess and guard ian of the
Ogun U n d e rwo r l d , Nana i s the grand­
The god of warri ors and h u nters, m other: S h e embodies calm and
he sym bol izes cou rage , stre ngth , level-headedness.
and truth. Depending on the d raw,
he is the l i berator or executioner:
The Ibej is
The cos m i c twi n s re p resent p l ay,
freedo m from care , and the inno­
cence of childhood.

Note: the letter "x " is pronounced "sh."

199
 I nte rp retati o n s

l op en : Okaran 2 op e n : Okeyu
SUCCESS TRIUMPH

Exu speaks: " You have a lot of trump Oxala and the lbejis speak:"Success, hap­
cards, you want to take action; you are piness, an end to problems or suffering,
ambitious."To your question, the answer you will obtain what you are looking for:"
is "yes," you will succeed and overcome T his very positive figure combines the
the obstacles, but on the condition that freshness of the lbejis with the wisdom of
you face up to truth and reality, stand Oxala and heralds a meeting, a senti­
back, and reassess the situation. Indeed, mental union, a lucrati ve job, triumph
your powerful ego is blinding you. It is over enemies, the end of confi ict, or sim­
by overcoming your desire to take action ply news that will bring you great joy
that you will soon achieve success.

200
 ] a g o d o s b u z i o s . Brazilian divination

3 op en : O gunda 4 op e n : Irosun
THE OBSTACLE T H E DREAM

Ogu n speaks: "Yo u are th i n ki ng of an Oxossi and Xango speak:"You are deter­
important proj ect, but yo u are ru n n i ng m i ned and proud, even domi neeri ng or
i nto d ifficu lties." You wi l l succeed but only arrogant, but d o u bt, i ndecision, laziness
if you act honestly, contro l l i ng you r u rges or d ream i ng are b l u rring rea l ity." Yo u
and you r strengths. An obstacle must be believe i n it without real ly bel ieving i n it.
overcome or even destroyed. You need You wou l d l i ke this . . . you hope that . . .
cou rage and perseverance as wel l as self­ but if yo u do noth ing to ach ieve it, you
contro i .Then, there is no doubt that you r must expect obstac les, problems even
efforts wi l l be rewarded. i m possibi l ities.

201
 Jo g o dos buzio s . Brazilian divi n a t i o n

S open : Oxe 6 op e n : Ob ara

FERTI LITY H ESITATION

Oxum and Yemanja speak: "You are pro­ Xango and Exu speak: "You are tryi ng to
tected, which h e ra l d s the end of yo u r c hange thi ngs, perhaps eve n destroy
p ro b l e m s , great su ccess, riches, an them in o rd e r to re bu i l d , u s i n g yo u r
encounter, a union, and ferti l ity." Be ambi­ wi l l power, hard work, feel i ngs or creativ­
tious, h ave faith i n yo u rself, seize any ity, but you do n ot know where to
o p p o rt u n ity that p resents itself and, begin . . . " For the moment look for hel p,
most importantly, take action. Otherwise guidance, and support but do not miss
you risk l o s i n g everythi ng. If yo u hope any opportun ity; it wi l l be worth it. I n love
to win, you wi l l win; you r hopes wi l l come you wi l l benefit from help from an u nex­
true. pected q uarter.Any problems you expe­
rience wi l l be short- l ived.

202
 J o g o d o s b u z i o s , Brazilian divination

7 op e n : O di 8 op e n : O gb e
ANXI ETY I M PULSIVEN ESS

Oxum and Ogu n speak: "You love p leas­ Xango speaks: "You are protected on a
u re , riches, and an easy l ife , and you are spi ritual level but guard against aggres­
ambiti o u s." Yet, yo u are worried about siveness, passion or the desire to domi­
the future , torn between the desire to nate ." Yes, you are i m p u lsive , you want a
act and to l et th i ngs b e , between the lot. Be carefu l , don't be guided by i m pa­
desire to change and to stabil ize. I n love , tience or act on a wh i m ; you wou l d m iss
you wi l l fai l if you do n ot know how to many good thi ngs that are promised to
behave; in other fields you need to have yo u . For the m o ment cal m yo u r m i n d .
faith . Yo u have stre ngths, but yo u need You r time w i l l come.
to learn how to d i rect them.

203
 ] a g o dos b u z i o s . Brazilian divin a t i o n

9 op e n : O s a 10 op en: Ofun
PROTECTION SEDUCTION

Ye manja and Oxossi speak: "Yo u have Oxum sp eaks: " U n i o n , asso c i at i o n ,
great stre ngths, b ut you m u st l earn to charm , sed uction, a love affai r . . . you are
identify them and nourish them in order fascinated by magic, you are carried away
to progress." Learn to hold you r tongue by yo u r fee l i ngs, and yo u are guided by
and take care of yo u rself. Yo u are pro­ you r sensual ity . . . " Ofu n i nvo lves art or
tected; everyth ing wi l l be all right so long the beauty of a perso n . Be s i n ce re
as you motivate yo u rself and d o n ot towards yo u rself and h o n est with the
choose the easy opti on or give i n to crit­ oth e r pers o n . D o n 't fo l l ow yo u r u rges
i c i s m . Yo u are enti rely res p o n s i b l e fo r blind ly. Remain level-headed and do not
you r actions. enter i nto a u n i o n if you r i ntuition te l l s
you that i t wi l l not work. If necessary, ask
for advice , and you wi l l receive it.

204
 Jogo dos buz i o s , Brazilian divination

11 op e n : Oworin 12 open : Otupuron

MYSTERY PRIDE

Exu speaks: " O bscure desires, tem pta­ Xango speaks: " I n itiative , decision-mak­
tion, sexual ity, mystery, chaos . . . the situ­ ing, pride, and arrogance . . . the situation
ation is a d iffi cu lt, com p l i cated one and req u i res that yo u s h ow s o m e self­
it tro u bles yo u ." It i s i m portant to fight restrai nt, respect the law or laws, and do
back, to get rid of cou nterpro d u ctive not try to dominate anyo n e ." I n the case
fee l i ngs and tho ughts i n order to start of a p ro b l e m with the o p p o site sex,
on a new footi ng.Th is is possible as long everyth ing depends on what you say. If
as you fi n d with i n yo u rself a balance yo u r words are kn ives they m i ght cut
between positive and n egative fo rces, yo u r own l i ps! Tu rn yo u r to ngue seven
because you are capabl e of expressing times i n you r mouth before saying any­
both equal ly wel l . th i ng more .

20S
 ]ago dos buzios . Brazilian divination

13 open : Ika 14 op e n : Iwori

WISDOM H O PE

Nana speaks: " H ere it is more a matter Nana, Oxu m, and the l bej is speak: " H ap­
of wisdom than of passion, more of hon­ piness in love , prosperity in busi ness, joy
est work than of easy gai n s." O n the i n friendsh ip!"Th is is good news; you find
romantic front. you must fi rst love before an effective strategy, and there are pleas­
making someone l ove yo u . Yo u h ave u res to be e nj oye d . N ow is a t i m e fo r
reached the end of a cycle, of a story, of hope.You are go ing to be agreeably sur­
an idea, of a tho ught. T h i s h e ra l d s the prised.Th is is a c u l m i nati on, a reward, an
begi n n i ng of someth ing else. But before awakening, a new event. You have fresh­
that you m u st u n d e rstand that every­ ness in yo u r fee l i ngs as we l l as ch arm
thing is born, l ives, and then d i es. Cal m , and self-confidence. You wi l l go far and
patience, level-headedness, comprehen­ these good feeli ngs will last a long time!
s i o n , and self-contro l are yo u r tru m p
cards.

2 06
 ] o g o d o s b u z i o s . Brazilian divination

16 op en : Irete
LiGHT

A l l the O rixas sp eak: "Yo u r diffi c u lties

are behind yo u n ow; p ro b l e m s h ave
been solved, so do not worry any more .
N ow t h e Sun is s h i n i ng a n d i l l u m i nati ng
lS open : Otura everyth i ng aro u n d , and truth i s tri­
ADVERSITY umphant."This figu re speaks of fi nancial
gai n, a successfu l trip, recovery, seren ity,
i nteresting proposals, l ove with a happy
Yemanja and Oxum speak:"You are con­ outc o m e , and l asti ng h ap p i n ess. S h are
stantly aski ng you rself questions, success th is l ight and be generous.
is e l u d i ng yo u , yo u are experi e n c i n g
advers ity, yo u are su bj ect t o b a d i n fi u ­
ences, or perhaps you are d ream ing o f an
i m possible love . . . " I n th is situation yo u
must be rigorous, patient. true to you r­
16 clo s e d : Op ira
S i LENCE
self, and s i n ce re at a l l times. M ake an
effort to i m p rove you rself and remem­
ber the sayi ng: "Truth is l i ke gold. Keep it The O rixas refuse to speak. This figure
inside you rself, and, in the end, yo u wi l l cancels the gam e . Yo u m u st throw the
d i scover i t is sti l l i ntact." shells again but not today . . . leave it u ntil
tomorrow.

2 07
Mahabo
Burmese divination
In t h e e l eve n t h centu ry, when A n awratha, king of B u rma, d e c l ared
Buddhism the nation's offic ial rel igion, the m o n ks were the guardians of
the esoteric sciences. Later these bonzes concentrated on sacred texts
and left the task of pred icting the futu re to astrologers and soothsayers.
Tod ay the t h o u sands of pagodas that are scattered across B u rm a are
p l aces of wors h i p and m e d itat i o n , and it is t h e re t h at t h e hu ja, t h e
"soothsayers," practice the art o f d ivination. "Horary divination" is o n e
o f the n u merous methods u s e d b y B u rmese soothsayers. It i s based on
the day of the week on which the q uestioner was born (Monday,Tuesday,
etc .), and the time and day of the week when the question is asked.
 Wh at d ay of th e wee k
we re yo u b o rn o n ?
l
Loo k u p the year of your birth i n the tabl e opposite and conti n u e
a l o n g t h e s a m e l i n e u nti l yo u reach the co l u m n of t h e month of
your birth. Write d own the n u m ber where the two cross: it is the
n u m ber A.

2
Add to it the date of your birth :
n u m be r A + date of b i rth = n u m b e r B

3
Look u p n u m be r B i n the tabl e b e l ow to fi n d the d ay of the week
o n wh ich yo u we re born.

Exam ple

I For a person b o rn on Apri l 2 3 rd , 1 9 5 7 , l o o k fo r " 1 9 5 7" on the

tabl e o p p o s ite and conti n u e u nt i l yo u reach the "Apri l " co l u m n .
N ote t h e n u m ber that you fi n d there , I .

2 Add th i s n u m be r I to the date of b i rth, " 2 3 ," that i s , I + 2 3 = 24.

3 Loo k fo r " 24 " in the tab l e b e l ow and yo u wi l l fi n d that the p e r­

son was born on a "Tuesday."

8 IS 22 29 36 Sunday
2 9 16 23 30 37 Monday
3 10 17 24 31 Tuesday
4 I I 18 25 32 Wednesday
5 12 19 26 33 Thursday
6 13 20 27 34 Friday
7 14 21 28 35 Saturday

210
 Mahab o , Burm e s e divination

I
MONTH S
Years Mar. Aug. Sep. 0� Nov. Dec.
Jan.

1 925 1 953 1 98 1 0 2

1 926 1 954 1 982

1 927 1 955 1 983 4 6 2 4

1 928 1 956 1 984 6

G 4 6

r
:�
1 90 1 1 929 1 957 0 2 5 0

;: t
1 902 1 930 1 958 6

1 903 1 93 1 1 959 1 4 0 4 0 2

1 904 1 932 1 960 1 988 s 1 6 2 4

1 905 1 93 3 1 96 1 1 989 0 �r
3 0 5

1 906 1 934 1 962 1 990 4 4 4 6

1 907 1 935 1 963 1 99 1 0 2 0

1 908 1 936 1 964 1 992 6 0 6 2 4 0 2

1 909 1 937 1 965 1 993 4 0

1910 1 938 1 966 1 994 2 4 6 2 4

191 1 1 939 1 967 1 995 6 2

1912 1 940 1 968 1 996 4 6 4 0 2 0

1913 1 94 1 1 969 1 997 6 6 2 4 0 2 6

1914 1 942 1 970 1 998 I 4 0 0 6 2 4 0 2

1915 1 943 1 97 1 1 999 5 4 6 2 4

1916 1 944 1 972 2000 6 2 6 4 6 0

1917 1 945 1 973 200 1 4 4 0 2 5 0 6 4 6

1918 1 946 1 974 2002 2 5 6 4 0 2 0

1919 1 947 1 975 2003 6 6 2 4 0 2 5 6

1 920 1 948 1 976 2004 4 0 4 6 2 4 0

1 92 1 1 949 1 9n 2oos 6 2 2 0 5 6 2 4

1 922 1 950 1 978 2006 0 6 4 6 2 0 5

1 923 1 95 1 1 979 2007 4 4 0 2 0 6 4 6

1 924 1 952 1 980 2008 2 6 2 4 0 2 6

211
 H ow to go abo ut it

l
Ask the q u esti o n o ral ly or i n writte n fo rm.

2
N ote t h e d ay of t h e we e k a n d t h e ti m e t h at yo u asked t h e
q uesti o n .

3
I n the tab l e bel ow, l o o k fo r the row that co rresp o n d s to the d ay of
the week and the col u m n co rres p o n d i ng to the ti m e at wh i c h yo u
asked the q u esti o n . Yo u wi l l fi n d a n u m ber at the p o i nt where the
row and co l u m n i ntersect.T h i s i s the n u m ber of the sym bol that con­
cerns yo u .

4
Look up th is sym bol i n the fo l l owing pages and read the oracle accord ­
i n g t o t h e day of t h e week o f you r b i rth, wh ich yo u wi l l have estab­
l i shed by fo l l owing the method exp lained in the previous pages.

6--8 8- 1 0 1�12 1 2- 1 4 1 4- 1 6 1 6- 1 8 1 8-20 2�22

22-23 23-0 �I 1 -2 2-3 3--4 4-5 5-6

Sunday 6 4 2 7

Monday 2 7 5 6 4 2

Tuesday 6 4 2 7 5

Wednesday 4 2 7 6 4

Thursday 5 6 4 2 7 5

Friday 6 4 2 7 5 6

Saturday 7 6 4 2 7

212
 Mahab o , Burm e s e divination

Exam p l e

I Born o n a Wed n esday, you are aski ng the q u est i o n o n a M o n d ay at

1 2:45 P. M .

2 I n the table at the bottom ofthe opposite page , look at the row for" Mon­
day" and the col u m n that includes 1 2:45 P. M . , that is, " 1 2:00-2:00 P. M . " At
the i ntersection of th is row and col u m n , you wi l l find the n u m ber 3.
3 Look up the sym bol 3 , Satu rn , on page 226.The paragraph for"Wednes­
day" is the reply to you r question.

4 · Sun
3 • Saturn
S · Moon

2 · Venus
6 · Mars

l · Jupiter 7 · Mercury

I n B u rma, as i n t h e West, t h e d ays of t h e week fa l l u n d e r t h e i nfl u e n c e of t h e

p l a n ets: the M o o n ( M o n d ay) , M ars (Tuesday) , M e rc u ry (We d n esday) , J u p iter o r

T h o r (Th u rsday) , Ve n u s o r Freya (Friday) , and Sat u rn (Satu rday) ; fi nal ly, S u n d ay i s

the d ay of the S u n .

2 13
 I nte rp retati o n s

1 Jup iter
Born o n a S u n day Born o n a Tu esday
Yo u are torn betwee n o p p o s 1 n g Th i s sym bol i s n ot favo rabl e fo r yo u .
thoughts, you r heart is wavering, a n d you There are misunderstandi ngs and prob­
are hesitating. Nonetheless, the omen is lems, and you can not act i m mediately. A
good and promises success, especially if job has not been com p l eted, and yo u r
yo u r q u esti o n i s re l ated to l ove o r relationsh i p sti l l lacks harmony.Yet i n the
i nvolves travel i ng. T h e t i m e has come to med i u m term, infiuences wi l l change and
make a clear, defin ite decision and to act become posit ive. Wait for the right time
with determ i n ati o n . But be carefu l : this to act or take a decision. Perseverance
decision m u st n ot h u rt anyo n e . M ake wi l l l ead to success.
sure that you r objective is disi nterested
and noble. Born o n Wed n esday
The situation is n ot easy, because yo u r
B o r n o n a M o n d ay m i n d is concentrating on considerations
The omen is exce l l ent.You wi l l be hel ped that are i rre l evant. Be constant, perse­
by a wo m a n . Learn to l i sten and act veri ng, and firm. Then and only then wi l l
accord i ng to yo u r i ntu iti o n . It w i l l l ead you have more self-confidence, a n d you r
you to success. chances o f success wi l l greatly i m p rove .

214
 M a h ab o , Burm e s e divination

Born on a Thu rsday Born o n a Satu rday

Th is is an excel lent omen. Everyth ing is The answer to you r question is "no" or
favorable for you, and you wi l l grow and "not yet."You r situation req u i res strength
develop. Conti nue along the same path, of ch aracte r and eve n a reassessm e nt
and you wi l l ach ieve great success! of yo u r objectives. When yo u r m i nd is
clearer you wi l l be able to act, but not yet.
Born o n a Friday
The answer to yo u r q u esti o n i s "yes."
You have many cards in you r favo r that
will h e l p yo u succeed, especially where
love or artistic p u rsuits are concerned.
Do not give i n to sadness or lose moti­
vation. Conti nue what you have started,
and you will be successfu l .

2 15
 Mahab o . Burm e s e divination

2 Venus
Born on a S u n day Born o n a Tu esday
Be carefu l , th i s is a warn i ng! If you have Yes, the omen is favorable, and yo u wi l l
too much se lf-co nfidence, yo u wi l l get c o m p l ete yo u r p roj ect su ccessfu l ly s o
n owhere . N o r w i l l yo u s u cceed if yo u long a s you do not allow you rself t o be
have too l ittle confidence i n you rself. . . infl uenced by what others are saying or
Th is sym bol asks yo u not to act i m me­ th i n ki ng. Have a clear objective , solve the
d i ate ly. Reco n s i d e r the s ituat i o n , ask p ro b l e m s one after the other; with o ut
you rself the right q uestions, then come rush ing, and rely only on you rselfto com­
and consult the oracle a l ittle later. plete th is project su ccessfu l ly. Then you
wi l l defin itely succeed.
Born o n a Monday
I n th is situati on do not count on others Born on a Wednesday
to help you. Nor should you th row you r­ No, for the time being you do not have
self i nto an i l l - c o n s i d e red enterp rise, sufficient determ i n ation and wi l l power
because th i s wo u l d have unfo rtu n ate to real ize you r plans.You sti l l need some
conseq uences. There are sti l l efforts to information or grounds for com parison.
be made, a tas k to be c o m p l eted , and For the moment reco nsider yo u r posi­
h arm ony to be created with i n a re la­ tion and see people as they rea l ly are
tionshi p.You wi l l be successfu l if you see without fooling you rself It is through per­
the sit uati on as it really is and not as you seve rance, self-confidence, and work
would l i ke it to be . . . we l l done that you wi l l ach i eve yo u r
objective , but a l ittle later.

216
 M a h ab o , Burm e s e divi n a t i o n

Born on a T h u rsday Born o n Satu rday

The omen is not e nti rely favo rabl e fo r The situation is sl ightly to yo u r advan­
you . Obstacles remain, and there is not tage , but there are sti l l a few thi ngs to
yet any h armo ny. I n o rd e r to m ake clarify or o rgan ize . You m u st bring har­
progress, yo u must be receptive rather mony i nto relationships and eq u i l i bri u m
than active , fiexi ble not rigid. Understand i nto a situation. Do n ot give up, a n d do
the m otives of oth e rs; do n ot try to n ot l ose yo u r m otivat i o n . Do n ot be
ach i eve eve ryth i n g a l l at o n c e , and be sto pped by restrictive ideas but perse­
patient. Learn h ow to d i sti ngu ish vere , make an effort, with others or with
between what is important and what is o n e person in parti c u l ar. Set yo u rself
superfi uous. Get ri d of what weighs upon ach ievable goals and you will succeed.
you and of the ideas that hold you back.
You r frame of mind will change and you
will consult the oracle again, at the prop­
er ti m e .

Born o n a Friday
Yes, i ndeed! It is an excel l ent sym bol that
wi l l h e l p yo u ach i eve great su ccess. Be
d eterm i n ed and h ave confidence i n
yo u rself. Fo l l ow yo u r i ntu iti o n and
remain true to you rself at all times. You r
actions must be i n agreement with you r
wo rds. It i s the key t o a su ccess that
promises to be bri l l iant.

217
 Mahab o , Burm e s e divination

3 Saturn
B o r n o n a S u n d ay B o r n o n a Tu esday
Thi ngs are go i ng you r way, but you must You feel torn between several o ptions.
sti l l look for h e l p o r s u p port. Consider The omen you have just d rawn indicates
the motivations of others, l i sten to what that you have chances of succeed i ng as
they have to say, understand their posi­ long as yo u d o n 't act rash ly or p rema­
tion, and you wi l l understand you r own ture ly. For the m o m e nt, o rd e r yo u r
bette� Association is better than i n d e­ tho ughts, decide on you r p riorities, but
pendence . Yo u r task i s n ot yet accom­ do not give u p if you r objective appears
p l i s h e d , and there are sti l l some distant or if d ifficulties persist. Persever­
obstacles. Perseveran ce, loyalty to you r ance is needed. Consult the oracle again
commitments, a n d honesty i n you r feel­ late�
i ngs will help yo u to do the right th ing
to succeed a l ittle late� Born o n a Wednes day
The omen you have just d rawn is good,
Born o n a M o n d ay if you are prepared to make efforts, and
You are not i n a favorabl e positio n . You if you al low you rself to be i nfl uenced by
lack clarity in you r j udgment. you r plans the opinion of others or the general sit­
are sti l l rather vague, the task i s not yet uat i o n . Yes , of course, the battle is n ot
completed, and you r relationsh i p has not enti rely won , and some i nertia or slow­
yet reached a sati sfactory equ i l i bri u m . i ng down may sti l l delay thi ngs. Be aware
Do n ot re m a i n fixated o n the same of what you want and act accord i ngly. fol­
p ro b l e m s o r the same q u esti o n s . See lowi ng you r deepest feeli ngs. If you do so,
t h i ngs fro m a d i stan c e , i n a m o re you wi l l have a good chance of success.
detached, more serene manne�That way
you wi l l find new ways to succeed, a new
way of acting that co rresponds better
to the req u i rements of the situation.

218
 Mahab o , Burm e s e divination

Born on a T h u rsday Born o n a Satu rday

No, fran kly not. you are not i n a posit ion The omen yo u have just d rawn promis­
to succeed, or at any rate, not now. You r es great su ccess. I n d e e d , the o m e n i s
m i n d is confused, you r proj ect is vague excellent, i f you re ly n ot on chance but
and n ot mature enough, o r you are on you r own ab i l ities. It is yo u r effo rts,
d e l u d i ng you rself. Ask yo u rself the real creativity, and s i n ce rity toward s yo u r­
questions. Don't give in to impulsiveness, self that lead you to success. Have con­
passion, or a passing fad. Consu lt the ora­ fi d e n c e , pe rseve re an d . . . yo u wi l l
cle again when the situation is clearer. succeed.

Born o n a Fri day

The situation is n ot easy and i n theory
yo u can not i nfl u ence others and bring
you r project to a successfu l conclusion.
Nevertheless, i n the med i u m term there
are chances of success if you don't give
in to i m pati e n c e , and especially if you
d o n 't look fo r personal gai n fro m t h i s
e nterp rise. Yo u m u st have a broad e r
vision; do not b e i n a hurry t o reach you r
goai.Time is on you r side.

2 19
 M a h ab o . Burm e s e divination

4 The Sun
Born o n a S u n d ay Born o n a Tu esday
Wel l done!You have just drawn an excel­ The situation in wh ich you find you rself is
lent omen .You wi l l bring you r enterprise not to you r advantage . You should start
to a successfu l concl u s i o n . D o n 't be by aski ng you rself clear, precise, serious
i m patient, conti nue along the same path, q uesti ons.You must be disci p l i ned. M od­
and be sincere and steadfast. If you follow e rate yo u r appetites, and d i rect yo u r
th is guidance , you r success wi l l be com­ e n e rgy toward s a n ach i evab l e goal
plete . i n stead of wanting eve ryth i ng at the
same t i m e . Then and o n ly then s h o u l d
Born on a M o n day you consu lt t h e oracle again.
You are in a frame of mind that promis­
es su ccess. Yo u h ave a good chance of B o r n o n a Wednesday
achieving your aims, as long as you do not If you know what you want, if you r intu­
become lazy or lose motivation. You sti l l iti on tel l s yo u to act, then go for it, you
need to make the right decisions. Beware have a good chance of succeedi ng. But if
of overestimating you r powers, but at the you are not sure, if you r m i n d is sti l l con­
same time don't sell you rself short. Learn fused or you sti l l feel anxious, do not act.
to appreciate and e n co u rage yo u rself
wheneverthe need arises. Make sure you
h ave a cl ear v i ew of the situati o n , and
do not m i stake yo u r wishes fo r real ity.
H ave a d i al ogue with yo u rself and fo l­
l ow yo u r i ntu iti o n , yo u r i n n e r vo i c e . It
will lead you to success.

220
 M a h a b o , B u r m e s e divi n a t i o n

Born on a T h u rsday Born on a Satu rday

Yo u are i n a favorab l e positi o n . Eve n if You are certainly with i n you r rights, and
there are sti l l some obstacles, m i sunder­ you r ambition is commendable.Yet prob­
stand i ngs or hesitancy to overcome, you lems remain; you are sti l l encounteri ng
wi l l be able to resolve the situation. Act obstacles on the way.Yo u must put thi ngs
fi rm ly in accordance with what you th i n k i nto perspective , stand back, and reassess
a n d say. If you are able t o have a n open, the situati on. Fi rst ask you rself honestly
h o nest, s i n cere d i alogue with yo u rself, if you r goal is ach i evable in the immedi­
you will succeed. ate futu re , if what you want is really what
you need. Consult the oracle again a l it­
Born o n a Friday tle later on.
Yo u r positi o n i s u n co mfo rtable. The
gro u n d o n which yo u are mov i n g i s
u n stable, changi ng, or dangerous i f you
are u nable to identify the pitfalls. Don't
rush i nto th i ngs and don't give in to im pa­
tience or passion. For the moment you
m u st refl ect and b u i l d u p you r charac­
ter.

221
 M a h a b o , B u rm e s e divi n a t i o n

S The Moon
Born o n a S u n d ay B o r n o n a Tu esday
You are i n a good positi on, but the time Yo u r situation is begi n n i ng to i m p rove;
has not come yet for you to act i n a deci­ th i ngs are p i cking u p m o m e ntu m , but
sive way. For the time bei ng, just l et th i ngs for the time being you sti l l have to make
take their cou rse . Act gently, and slowly, s o m e effo rts. Yo u m u st be genero u s ,
be d i p l o matic and c o n s i stent always open-mi nded, a n d diplomatic. Do not b e
goi ng in the same d i rection. You wi l l see i m patient o r i m p u lsive . Co nti n u e with
th i ngs m o re cl early, you wi l l fee l m o re perseverance and seren ity Then chance
confident again, you wi l l be better able wi l l smile upon you, perhaps even unex­
to recogn ize opportunities to act you r pectedly.
objectives w i l l become cl earer; m o re
precise .Then you wi l l consult the oracle Born on a Wed n esday
aga�n. The present situation is not easy, far from
it. Do not expect qualities in others that
B o r n o n a M o n d ay yo u d o n ot h ave yo u rself, and d o n ot
The oracle that yo u have j u st d rawn is look for i m mediate personal gai n ; it's not
exce l l ent and p ro m i ses much su ccess. i n the cards. Reconsider the situation i n
Co nti n u e in the same m a n n e r wh i l e a m o re d etac h e d , sere n e m a n n e r a n d
remai n i ng sincere , spontaneous, perse­ consult t h e oracle again later.
vering, and honest towards you rself and
therefo re towards others. If yo u do so,
you will bri ng you r plans to a successfu l
concl usion.

222
 Mahab o , Burme s e divination

Born on a T h u rsday Born o n a Satu rday

You r situation is i n balance, but th is equi­ No, fran kly no. You are not i n a posit i on
l i bri u m is fragile. By listening to yo u rself to evolve positively, and you are com ing
better, by aski ng the gui dance of more u p against fo rces that are greater than
influential, experienced people, you wi l l yo u . For the time bei ng, make n o deci­
fi n d the right approach. You have a good sions and do not take any action. With
chance of success as long as you see the ti m e , situati o n s wi l l change and yo u r
situation as it real ly is and do not ideal­ chances of success wi l l b e much greate�
ize it. Then you wi l l consult the oracle agai n.

Born o n a Friday
This is a sym bol of good omen. You wi l l
be a b l e t o b r i n g yo u r proj ect t o a suc­
cessfu l conclusion if you fol l ow the flow
instead of trying to go against it. Recog­
n ize yo u r own tal ents and work at
improvi ng them. It is these qual ities and
not circu mstances that wi l l enable you to
achieve success very soon.

223
 Mahab o , Burm e s e divination

6 Mars
Born o n a S u n day B o r n o n a Tu esday
Yo u r p resent situati o n does n ot a l l ow The oracle that you have j u st d rawn i s
you to express you rself freely, wh ich pre­ excel l e nt! Yo u are very persuasive . Yo u
vents you from surmounting the obsta­ have self-confidence a n d are confident i n
cles in you r way. Do not make any rash you r objectives. If you know exactly what
decision, and do not act i l l-advised ly.You you want and do not want. you wi l l be
do not have a l l the necessary informa­ able to overcome all you r problems and
tion and contacts at han d . Yo u also lack to ach ieve success.Very soon.
a m o re glo bal v i ew of the situati o n .
Redefi ne yo u r goals a n d , if necessary, Born o n a Wednesday
reappraise certain aspects of the prob­ Yo u can create h armony i n yo u r re la­
l e m . It is by separating the superfuous t i o n s h i p s and ach i eve success in yo u r
from the essential, by aski ng you rself the enterprise a s l o n g a s yo u do n ot con­
real questions, that you wi l l d iscover the vince you rself that yo u have arrived at
real answers. the fi n ish l i n e . . . No, there are sti l l prob­
lems to solve , work to be done, people
Born o n a M o n d ay to persuade, including you rself above al l .
The t i m e i s n ot right fo r large-scal e , Yo u wi l l succeed a s long a s y o u d o n 't
gran d i ose p roj ects. I n stead it cal l s fo r th row you rself rashly i nto a project but
moderation.Yo u r present situation is not take the common good into accou nt On
u n favo rab l e , but there are sti l l some th e oth e r hand, selfish, petty- m i n d e d
obstac les to b e overco m e . M ake objectives are doomed t o fai l u re .
p rogress ste p by ste p, work on the
details, and, if necessary, be fi exible and
patient if dependency on someone else
is we igh i ng yo u d own. Conti n u e to
improve you rself and clarify you r objec­
tives. T h i s w i l l h e l p yo u d i scover the
means of achieving them.

224
 M a h ab o . Burm e s e divination

Born on a T h u rsday Born o n Satu rday

You r present situation is not easy, being Yes! The oracle is positive .The time has
rather u n stab l e and c o m p l ex. D o n ot come to tackle the task ahead of you, to
re bel agai n st auth ority, d o n ot lay the bring yo u r act i o n s and fee l i ngs u n d e r
blame on anyone else but exam ine you r­ control s o that they don't b o i l over. You r
self m o re c l osely i n stead . For the chances o f success are great, b u t there
m o m ent respect the natural o rd e r of are sti l l effo rts and adj u stments to be
thi ngs and know you r place. Time is on made.Act with determination and delib­
you r side as long as you give it a helping eration, and you wi l l succeed.
h a n d . Redefi n e yo u r goals, d raw u p a
stage-by-stage p l an of act i o n and
approach these stages o n e afte r the
other without any i m patience. O n ly then
should you consult the oracle agai n.

B o r n o n Friday
If you are aski ng you rself questions, it is
because there are q uesti o n s to be
asked . . . Exam ine you r motivation, know
what you want and make sure that you r
goal is ach ievabl e .Then i f i t is not, recon­
sider you r plans.You hold all the answers
to you r q uestions with i n you rself. By fol­
l owi ng yo u r own i nt u it i o n you w i l l be
able to com pre h e n d them bette r and
decide cal mly. Consult the oracle again
a l ittle later.

225
 Mahab o . B u r m e s e d i v i n a t i o n

7 Mercury
Born on a S u n d ay Born on a Tuesday
There are chances that you r present sit­ You r present situation is not easy. Yo u r
uation wi l l l ead yo u to su ccess as long project is being hampered or you r objec­
as you do not pursue selfish objectives or tives h ave n ot been cl early defi n e d .
demand immediate gratification . . Do not Nonetheless, there are chances o f sue­
look for secret arrangements; you r rela­ cess i n the med i u m term . But do not be
tionsh i ps must be clear; simple, and frank. in a rush to d o we l l ; wait a l ittl e wh i l e
Fo l l ow a noble o bjective, be generous. and try t o fi n d peace of mind, si nce th is
d i s i nterested, and open to the o p i n i o n wi l l enable you to take stock of the situ­
o f others.Then you will tri umph. ati o n . Then, and o n ly then, s h o u l d yo u
consult the oracle agai n .
B o r n o n a M o n d ay
I n the present situation yo u can not act Born o n We dnes day
i m med iately because the oracle that you The oracle that you have just d rawn is a
have just drawn indicates a lack of com­ very good omen. It prom ises success i n
m u n i cati o n . some i ncom prehension or yo u r p roj ects a n d recogn izes that you
i n e rtia. For the m o m ent d o n ot carry are a gifted person . Conti nue along th is
on with yo u r proj ects. Prefer the shad­ path, do not have any doubts, and have
ow to the l i ght. Do not be del uded by confidence in yo u rself It is yo u r c l ear
appearances, and do not delude you rself mind, you r good judgment and you r sin­
Yo u r qualities are real , but they are not cerity that will l ead you down the road to
yet recogn ized. Do not take action yet, success.
and if necessary reth i n k certain aspects
of you r plans.

226
 M a h ab o , Burm e s e divination

Born on a Thu rsday Born o n a Satu rday

Yes, the oracle favors you and is respond­ Yes, you wi l l ach ieve success, but before
ing positively to you r question.Yet there that there are effo rts to be mad e . Yo u
are sti l l thi ngs to acco m p l i s h , re l ation­ must also clear you r mind. Concentrate
s h i p s to i m p rove and harmony to be on rectifying the mistakes you may have
found. You must have a strong wi l l with­ made i n the past, and do not allow the
in you , but on the outside you must dis­ situation to deteriorate . Act cal m ly, fo l ­
play sweetness and gentleness. Get rid of l ow yo u r i ntu iti o n , and re m a i n h o n est
sad or d isco u ragi ng thoughts, and learn with yo u rse lf. It is o n l y when you have
how to share you r happi ness with other regained yo u r self-co n fi d e n ce , when a
peo p l e . It is you r enth usiasm that helps weight has been taken off you r chest, that
you tri umph over obstacles. you wi l l be able to m ove towards suc­
cess.
Born o n a Friday
The oracl e you have just drawn says that
violent or i nconsiderate actions must be
avo i d e d . I n deed, yo u are not i n a posi­
tion of strength. Old problems, regrets or
resentments cloud you r judgment. Learn
to put yo u rself in other people's shoes,
understand their motives, and approach
them with out p reconce ived i d eas.Yo u
m u st be patient, perseveri ng, a n d con­
sistent i n you r work, you r ideas, and you r
relati onshi ps. Consult t h e oracle again a
l ittle later:

227
 Co n s u lti n g th e o rac l e

l
Gather together forty-one smal l , easy to handle objects to use as tokens
such as d ried peas, broad beans, coffee beans, beads or pebbles . . . o n ly
metal is n ot al lowed.

2
Sit down at a table and gather the forty-one tokens i nto a heap i n front
of yo u . Then separate these tokens i nto three heaps at ran d o m . N ow
take a p i ece of paper and d raw a grid with n i n e n u m bered squ ares, as
shown on the page opposite.

3
N ow remove the to kens fo u r at a time from the fi rst heap, the one on
the right.When there are only one, two, three or fou r tokens left, take them
and put them in s q uare I of the grid. Put the other tokens you have just
removed to one side for the moment.

4
Repeat the operation with the seco nd heap, the one i n the centre , and
put one, two, three or fou r tokens i n squ are 2.

s
Repeat the operation again with the th i rd heap, the one on the left, and
put the tokens i n square 3.

6
N ow take all the tokens you put to one side earl ier on and gather them
i nto one heap. Then divide th is heap i nto three smal ler heaps. Repeat the
same operati ons descri bed i n stage 3 , 4 and 5 i n order to fill squ ares 4, 5 ,
and 6.

230
 Ku m a l a k , S h a m a n i s m from K a z a k h s t a n

7
Final ly, again take all the tokens put to one side and gather them i nto one
heap. Then d ivide this heap i nto th ree smal ler heaps. Repeat the same
operati ons i n order to fi l l squares 7, 8, and 9 .

8
The remai n i ng tokens wi l l not be used.

9
Look at the gri d . Add the tokens i n squares I , 2, and 3 . The total should
come to 5 or 9 . Ad d the tokens i n squares 4, 5 , and 6. The result should
be 4, 8 o r 1 2 tokens. Add the toke n s i n s q u ares 7 , 8 and 9 . Aga i n , the
result should be 4, 8, or 1 2 tokens.
If th is is not the case you have made a mistake . . . start agai n!

Ku mulak's gri d i nterpreted li ne by line:

•
• "
The fi rst l i n e (squ ares I , 2, and
3) d e s c r i b e s t h e past a n d the
state of m i n d of the q u esti o n e r.
3 2

T h e s e c o n d l i n e ( s q u ares 4, 5
6) describes the present
•
and
•• • situati on and the strengths and
weakn esses of the q ue st i o n e r.
6 s 4

The third l i n e (squares 7, 8 and

.. 4 ... 9 ) refers to t h e fut u re . It i s t h e

answer t o the q u esti o n , the p re-
9 8 7 d i ction for the future.

231
 I nte rp retati o n s

First line : the state of mind

• • ... • •
3 2 3 2

" F I RE IN YOU R H EAD, " F I R E IN YOUR H EAD,

WIND IN YOUR EYES " FIRE IN YOU R EYES "
You r thoughts are clear, generous, open You r m i n d is turned towards what is pos­
to the world and to others around you . itive, wide-ranging, and u p l ifting.Your self­
Yo u b e l i eve i n what you are doing and confidence enables you to open doors,
i n the successfu l o utcome of you r plans. make situations d eve l o p, and m otivate
You r strengths are mobil ity, enth usiasm, others. Do not fear e ither difficulties or
and i n itiative . com petition .

••
3
•
2
.. • 3
•
2
.. l

" F I R E IN YOUR H EAD, "FIRE IN YOU R H EAD,

WATER IN YOU R EYES " SAN D IN YOU R EYES "
You feel the need to share . Love , affec­ You seem concerned and d isappoi nted .
tion, and tenderness are you r main con­ Yo u are angry with someone o r with
cerns. Yo u are looki n g fo r hap p i n ess i n you rself, or you are doubtfu l about the
you r fam i ly life and a harmonious lovi ng outcome of you r project. Yet you know
re l ati o n s h i p . If yo u r q u est i o n is about you are heading in the right d i recti on.
children, you r wishes wi l l be granted.

232
 Kumalak, Shamanism from Kazakhstan

.. •• ... ••
3 2 3 2

"WATER IN YOU R H EAD, "WATER IN YOU R H EAD,

WATER IN YOU R EYES " SAN D IN YOU R EYES "
Thi ngs are not evolving as you would l i ke , There is frustrat i o n , sad ness, eve n
o r yo u are dependent o n a person o r angu i s h and suffering. Yo u n o l o nger
situati o n . For t h e m o m ent yo u d o n ot know how to act, where to go or whom
hold the key to the problem. to appeal to.

..
3
••
2
• • 3
..
2
••

"WATER IN YOUR H EAD, "WATER IN YOU R H EAD,

FIRE IN YOU R EYES " WIND IN YOUR EYES "
At fi rst sight you seem fu l l of good inten­ On the outside you appear cheerfu l and
tions, rather opti mistic ones, but in reali­ co ntent, but i n s i d e yo u are anxi o u s , a
ty you r mind is not clear and you r ideas problem keeps resu rfaci ng, you are d i s­
are confused . . . appoi nted by someone or yo u are not
sure of you rself.

233
 Kum alak. Shamanism from Kazakhstan

• •
3 2 3 2

"WI N D I N YOUR H EAD, "THE THREE STARS "

FIRE IN YOUR EYES " These three stars protect you . There is
Motivated, enth usiastic, and opti mistic . no need to ask the Kumalak any m o re
you r ideas are cl ear and you r obj ectives q u esti o n s ! Eve ryth i n g wi l l be a l l right,
we l l defi n e d . T h i s positive attitu d e even better than you m ight expect!
enables you t o bring a n y project t o a suc­
cessfu l concl usion.

••
... . ��. ... ..
3 2
3 2

"WI N D IN YOU R H EAD,

"WI N D I N YOU R H EAD, WATER IN YOU R EYES "
SAN D IN YOU R EYES " Obstac les are blocking yo u r way. Yo u
You are frightened of doing wrong, of not kn ow that yo u are fo l l owing the right
m easu ring u p . Yo u have suffe red and path, but the confusion of other people
someone has h u rt you. Although fo r the or of one person i n particular hampers
time being events do not seem to sup­ you.
port you r opinion, you know that you are
fo l lowi ng the right path.

234
 Kumal a k , Shamanism from Kazakhstan

•
3
. ��, 2 3 2
••

"SAND IN YOU R H EAD, "SAN D IN YOU R H EAD,

SAN D IN YOU R EYES " WATER IN YOU R EYES "
You are plagued by anxiety, you are ask­ You r ideas fai l to e l icit any response and
i ng yo u rself e n d l ess q u est i o n s , o r an oth e r p e o p l e are refu s i ng to be i n fl u ­
obstac l e seems to be i n s u rm o u ntab l e . enced.You can not see h ow t o make you r
You feel weighed down b y worries, and d reams c o m e tru e , a n d th is makes you
yo u have lost you r points of reference. feel gloomy
You are very dependent on others.

..
3 2
...
3
• 2
•

"SAND IN YOU R H EAD, "SAN D IN YOU R H EAD,

W I N D IN YOU R EYES " FIRE IN YOU R EYES "
You have every reason to be happy but You appear to be strong and motivated ,
yo u are m i ss i ng someth ing or some­ b u t yo u do n ot know what others are
one . . . You want to act, but the situation expecting from yo u. Beh i n d a detached
seems to be dead l ocked, or an old prob­ and confident appearance, you fear the
lem is resu rfaci ng. future .

23S
 K u m a l a k . S h a m a n i s m from K a z a k h s t a n

Sec ond line : the current situation

•
6
•
s
••
4 6
.
s
" 4

" F I R E IN YOUR H EART, " F I R E I N YOU R H EART,

WATER I N YOU R HANDS " EARTH I N YOU R HANDS "
Yo u r situation i s e n c o u ragi ng, because Yo u h ave the m e ntal and e m oti onal
yo u r h eart i s p u re , but yo u lack stre ngth to i m p rove yo u r situati o n , to
resources, weight or convi cti on. For the start and deve l o p a re l ati o n s h i p . Yo u r
moment the balance of power is not i n i ntuition tells you that you are fol l owing
you r favor. the right path .

.. • •
6
• s 4 s

" F I R E IN YOUR H EART, " F I R E I N YOU R H EART,

F I RE I N YOU R HANDS " W I N D I N YOU R HANDS "
Yo u are not yet capable of i n itiating or Yo u have a certain i nferiority c o m p l ex
taki ng charge of a project. A task has not i n re l ation to others and you lack self­
yet been completed , or a relationsh i p has confidence. But you have every chance
not yet become stable. of maki ng u p for these d rawbacks.

236
 Ku m a l a k , S h a m a n i s m from K a z a k h s t a n

•
6
..
s
•
4
4 6
..
s
... 4

"WATER IN YOU R H EART, "WATER IN YOUR H EART,

FIRE I N YOU R HANDS " W I N D I N YOU R HANDS "
The situation is n ot to you r advantage . You want to bring equ i l i bri u m i nto you r
Yo u h eart is heavy, and if yo u r state of relati onships but yo u are fee l i ng rather
mind does not change you will become a p p re h e n sive . Yo u r positi o n i s frag i l e
i ncreasi ngly confused .Yes, anxiety is a bad because y o u are n ot s u re o f yo u rse lf.
counselor. Yo u m u st fi rst l earn to trust yo u rself
more .

••
6
..
s
. 4
• 6
••
s
..
4

"WATER I N YOUR H EART, "WATER I N YOUR H EART,

EARTH I N YOU R HANDS " WATER I N YOU R HANDS "
You do not real ly know how to behave , Yo u are fu l l of d o u bts, yo u are fee l i ng
and others are i n a s i m i lar position. Yo u vul nerable, tormented, and worried, and
have strengths that for the moment can­ this is refiected in you r relationships.You
not come to the fore . can n ot make any decision yet. Where
h ealth is concerned, you m u st be very
carefu l .

237
 Kum a l a k , S h a m a n i s m from K a z a k h s t a n

•
6
Ill, 4
...
6
••
4

"WI N D IN YOU R H EART, "WI N D IN YOU R H EART,

EARTH I N YOU R HANDS " WATER I N YOU R HANDS "
You are starting with a strong hand and Yo u h ave a fee l i ng of i n feriority. Yo u
great physical and mental strengths. You r depend on others or on a particular per­
heart is o p e n t o t h e world, a n d you feel son. Th is situation, which is not to you r
ready for new experiences i n you r l ife . advantage , could depress you, but i t does
not because you know that you are fo l­
lowing the right path .

..
6
...
4
• 6
...
s
•
4

"WI N D I N YOU R H EART, "WI N D IN YOU R H EART,

WIND I N YOU R HANDS" FIRE I N YOU R HANDS "
Yo u fee l capab l e of s u rm o u nting the Yo u r dependence o n oth e rs i s a l m o st
obstacles on you r way but those who are totai .You are not strong enough to make
facing you are less fortu nate . The scales the situatio n deve lop in yo u r favor: You
are tipping . . . i n you r favor: can, however, remain calm and serene.

238
 Kumalak , Shamanism from Kazakhstan

• ... •
6 4 4

"SAND IN YOU R H EART, "SAND IN YOU R H EART,

W I N D I N YOU R HAN DS " FIRE I N YOU R HANDS "
You r heart is heavy with sad ness.You are Yo u r tho ughts are confused, you are
aski ng yo u rself al l so rts of d i sord e red frightened or are experi encing d o u bts.
q uestions, you are fee l i ng held back, and For the time being you are not eq u i pped
yo u are s u b m e rged in yo u r e m oti ons. to overcome the obstacles that are i n
You r view ofthe situation is not the right you r way.
one . . .

.. 6 .. s
•• 4
.. 4

"SAND IN YOU R H EART, "SAND I N YOU R H EART,

WATER I N YOU R HANDS " EARTH I N YOU R HANDS "
A difficult situation and potential source Many ideas, many plans . . . you are aware
of confl i ct. Yo u seem lost and fee l of the strengths with i n you that are wait­
exhausted b y the s a m e q uestions that ing to reveal themselves. So why this sad­
keep cropping up in the same way.You no ness?
longer know who to tu rn to.

239
 Kum a l a k . S ha m a n i s m f r o m K a z a k h s t a n

Third line : prediction of t h e future

• • .. •• • •
9 8 7 9 8 7

"WATER RIDER " f i R E RIDER

ON FIRE HORSE " ON FIRE HORSE "

Pred i cti o n Pred i cti o n .

You are guided by impu lsiveness and pas­ There is action and mobility in th is sym­
s i o n , but yo u do not possess sufficient b o l . Em bark u pon new ve ntu res. It is a
weight or stabil ity to real ize you r i nten­ favo rab l e time fo r trave l i ng. m ovi ng.
tions.You are temporari ly blocked by cir­ transform i ng or starting a project. Main­
cumstances. tai n i ng the status quo i s n ot recom­
mended.
Attitude to adopt
Curb you r enth usiasm, wait for a better Attitu de to adopt
moment to act. and do not feel frustrat­ Be th i rsty fo r freedom and i n d e pend­
ed if the situati o n does not develop at ence, do not stay at home or in the same
the speed that you would l i ke . place . Go out.You wi l l find what you are
looking for somewhere else, with others,
or in an unexpected way.

240
 Ku m a l a k , S h a m a n i s m from K a z a k h s t a n

4 9
.
8
"' 7
• 9
•
8
4 7

" EARTH RIDER "WI N D RIDER

ON FIRE HORSE " ON FIRE HORSE "

Pre d i ction Pred i ction

This is a very posit ive augu ry The suc­ Success l ies i n remai n i ng mobile. There
cess of you r enterprise l ies i n you r own is a prom ise of beneficial change and
hands. Fi nancial gains, success, renown, sati sfaction. A woman who d raws this
wel l-bei ng. For a man th is portends a response can expect a serious relati on­
serious relati onship, marital happi ness, ship even marriage . If you are already
or a wedd i ng! married, it is sure to be a happy one.

Attitu d e to adopt Attitu de t o adopt

Be open to new thi ngs. You don' t have Make a decision or take actions now. By
to go anywhere. Good news will come goi ng to meet others, by maki ng a
to you . move or travel i ng, you wi l l find success.

241
 Ku m a l a k , S h a m a n i s m from K a z a k h s t a n

•
9
•
7
..
9
.. 7

" FIRE RIDER " EARTH RIDER

ON WATER HORSE " ON WATER HORSE "

Pre d i ction Pre d i ction

This sym bol is not a good omen. lt speaks This sym bol gives a positive answer to
of d iffi c u lties, a d i sagreement, sol itu de you r question, but you must not be too
or the need to retreat. i m patient, act rashly or look for outside
help.
Attitu d e to adopt
Yo u are going off cou rse; you are m i s­ Attitude to adopt
taken. Reappraise the various aspects of Yo u are on the right track but n ot a l l
you r project that no longer reflect reali­ p ro b l e m s h ave b e e n solved . Yo u m u st
ty persevere , make the necessary efforts
and do not count on anyone to help you .

242
 Kumal a k , Shamanism from Kazakh stan

4 9
.. ...
8 7
• 9
••
8
..
7

"WI N D RIDER "WATER RIDER

ON WATER HORSE " ON WATER HORSE

Pre d i ction Pred iction

Tensions, problems with others or with Yo u r situation could i m p rove provided
someone in particular . . . There is goi ng that you are able to control you r emo­
to be a power struggle, a confl ict, a con­ tions.There are sti l l i nternal tensions that
frontation or a break-up. need to be d ealt with and p ro b l e m s
with in you rself that you must resolve.
Attitu de t o adopt
You are forced to change d i rection and Attitude to adopt
tackle the sit uation in a d ifferent way. Do Behave i n a more straightforward man­
not wait before choosing a new course ner and be m o re open to n ew i d eas.
of action. Change you r state of mind and Then peo p l e wi l l come toward s yo u .
be prepared to make a d ifficult decision. Remember that i n you r situation the final
decision is not u p to you.

243
 Kumalak, Shamanism from Kazakhstan

•
9
4 • 8 7
.. ... 49 8 7

" EARTH RIDER "WI N D RIDER

ON WIND HORSE " ON W I N D HORSE "

Prediction Pre d i ction

This is a very good omen! Don't worry, T h i s sym bol speaks of m ove ment and
you r situation will improve considerably! transformat i o n . It i n d i cates m o re a
change i n yo u r state of m i n d than i n
Attitude to adopt material conditions.
H ave faith . D o n ot look e l sewhe re fo r
answers.You possess all that's req u i red to Attitude to adopt
l ive better and more happi ly. Speed up you r pace , and do not be infiu­
enced by the lack of motivation in others.
At the same t i m e d o n ot try to reach
you r goal at any cost. You r situation wi l l
i m p rove a s res u lt o f someth i n g u n ex­
pected.

244
 Ku m a l a k , S h a m a n i s m from K a z a k h s t a n

--
')
-- 8
••
7
. 9
...
8
•
7

"WATER RIDER " F I R E RIDER

ON W I N D HORSE " ON W I N D HORSE "

Prediction Pre d i ction

Your problems are in the process of You must be prepared to travel. Success
being resolved, but things are still out of will come from an outside source, and
balance . You can't act freely You want to someone will make your task easier:
go forward, but someth ing or someone
is standing in your way Attitu d e to adopt
Act. communicate, travel. Exchange
Attitude to adopt points of view.You are dealing with the
The situation is improving, but you must right people .
not rush anyth ing.The time to act has not
yet come. Be patient

24S
 K u m a l a k . Sh a m a n i s m f r o m K a z a k h s t a n

• 9
• 4 8 7
..
9
.. 8
••
7

"WI N D RIDER "WATER RIDER

ON EARTH HORSE " ON EARTH HORSE

Pred i ction Pre d i ction

Th is symbol promises the successfu l out­ This sym bol speaks of isolation, slowing
come of you r projects, the stabilization of down , and a lack of freedom. Before you
you r position, and the fu lfi l l ment of you r can infl uence the cou rse of events, you
expectations. must wait for tensions to disappear or for
a cal mer state of mind.
Attitu de to adopt
Conti nue along the same path without Attitu d e t o adopt
rush i ng anyth i ng. The situati o n wi l l You are dependent on others or over­
1 m p rove . S o m e o n e is bringing good taken by events. Yo u can n ot make any
news. progress, and no one can get near you .
Do n ot act rash ly: t h i s blockage is o n ly
tem porary; soon these restricting c i r­
cumstances wi l l disappear

246
 Kumalak. Shamanism from Kazakhstan

•
7
.. . .. 9 8 7

" F I R E RIDER " M OTHER EARTH "

ON EARTH HORSE "

Pred i ction Pre d i cti o n

Th is sym bol speaks of riches and we l l ­ This is the best sym bol i n the Kumal ak!
bei ng. Yo u r situation wi l l soon i m p rove It promises good fortu ne, success, good
noti ceably. Success is here , close to you health, and trave l . It speaks of wisd o m ,
or i n you r home. sh ared l ove , and mate rial acq u i siti ons.
You wi l l ach ieve you r goal !
Attitu d e t o adopt
There are n o great p roj ects to u n d e r­
take and no travel i ng. All you have to do
is to remain avai labl e . A person whom
yo u l i ke wi l l co ntact yo u beari ng good
news.

2 47
 Ph oto C red its:

pp. I 0- 1 I © Nathan Goodman

pp. 24-25 © Anthony Ladd
pp. 3 6-37 © John Christian Lon n i ngdal
pp. 50-5 1 © Martin Kawalski
pp. 66-67 ©Tomasz Resiak
pp. 78-79 Publ ishers Co l lection
pp. I 04- 1 05 © Albert J . Copley
pp. I 1 8- 1 1 9 © Stasys Eid iejus
pp. 1 3 2- 1 3 3 © Kim Freitas
pp. 1 5 0- 1 5 1 © Tyler Olson
pp. 1 60- 1 62 © Henry Lucenius
pp. 1 82- 1 8 3 © Jerem iah Garcia
pp. 1 9 6- 1 97 © Jonas Engstrom
pp. 208-209 © Dave Gray
pp. 228-229 © Hatem EI-Toudy
 l

-- >- _cJ
·_
,

...
,I

lt•