A divination tray, also known as a divination board, is a tool used in some cultures for the purpose of divination or seeking guidance from the spirit realm. It is often used by traditional healers, diviners, or spiritual practitioners to communicate with ancestors, deities, or other spiritual entities. The tray typically contains symbols, patterns, or images that are used to interpret or convey messages related to the querent’s question or situation. Divination trays can vary in design and material, ranging from wood or metal to cloth or clay.
The History of Divination
Divination is an ancient practice of seeking knowledge of the unknown. It has been used in cultures all around the world, from the Greeks to the Chinese. Divination has taken many different forms, including astrology, tarot, and palm reading. One of the most popular forms of divination in Chinese culture is the use of a divination tray.
A divination tray is a tool used in Chinese metaphysics to help people gain insight into their lives. It is a circular tray made of wood or bamboo, with markings on it that represent the different aspects of a person’s life. These markings include the eight trigrams, the twelve earthly branches, and the ten heavenly stems.
The Eight Trigrams
The eight trigrams are symbols that represent different natural phenomena, such as wind, water, and fire. They are used in the practice of feng shui to determine the best arrangement of objects in a space. In divination, the eight trigrams are used to represent different aspects of a person’s life, such as health, wealth, and relationships.
The Twelve Earthly Branches
the twelve earthly branches are a cycle of twelve animal signs that are used in the Chinese zodiac. Each animal sign is associated with certain personality traits and is believed to influence a person’s life. In divination, the twelve earthly branches are used to represent different aspects of a person’s life, such as career, family, and love.
The Ten Heavenly Stems
the ten heavenly stems are symbols that represent the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) and their yin and yang variations. They are used in the practice of feng shui to determine the best colors and materials to use in a space. In divination, the ten heavenly stems are used to represent different aspects of a person’s life, such as luck, destiny, and fortune.
How is a Divination Tray Used?
To use a divination tray, a person first must ask a question about their life. They then toss three coins onto the tray and use the markings to interpret the results. The coins are read in groups of three, with each group representing one of the eight trigrams. The resulting combination of trigrams is then interpreted to provide insight into the question asked.
Misconceptions about Divination
There are many misconceptions about divination, including that it is a form of witchcraft or magic. However, divination is simply a tool used to gain insight into one’s life. It is not meant to predict the future or control the outcome of events. Instead, it is a way to gain a better understanding of oneself and the world around us.
Benefits of Divination
Divination can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. It can help people gain insight into their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. It can also provide guidance on important decisions and help people navigate challenging situations. By using a divination tray, people can tap into their intuition and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world.
FAQs – What is a Divination Tray?
What is a divination tray?
A divination tray is an object that is used in divination practices to aid in casting and interpreting the results of a divination reading. The tray can be made from a variety of different materials, such as wood, metal, or stone, and typically features various symbols or markings that are used to interpret the results.
How does a divination tray work?
A divination tray works by allowing the diviner to cast a set of objects onto the surface of the tray and then interpret the configuration of the objects based on the symbols or markings on the tray. Different types of divination trays may use different types of objects or symbols, and the interpretation can vary depending on the specific type of divination being practiced.
What are some examples of divination trays?
Some examples of divination trays include the African divination trays known as “ngombo,” which are typically made from wood and feature a variety of symbols and markings. Other examples include the Chinese divination tray known as the “I Ching,” which uses a set of 64 hexagrams to interpret the results of a reading.
How are divination trays used?
To use a divination tray, the diviner typically begins by settling their mind and focusing their intention. They then cast a set of objects onto the tray, such as cowrie shells or dice, and interpret the results based on the symbols and markings on the tray. Different types of divination trays may use different techniques for casting or interpretation, and the specific method can vary depending on the diviner’s personal preferences and training.
Are divination trays accurate?
The accuracy of a divination tray reading can vary depending on a number of factors, including the skill and experience of the diviner, the specific type of divination being used, and the relevance of the symbols and markings on the tray to the question being asked. Some people may find divination trays to be a helpful tool for gaining insight and guidance, while others may approach them with more skepticism. Ultimately, the accuracy of a divination tray reading is subjective and open to interpretation.
