Water Divination

[Toffee 2843]

 

 

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FOR CENTURIES, OUR PEOPLE have looked to nature and seen the Aspects. Cerridwen lives in every gentle breeze and new bloom, Cernunnos in every wildfire. The most spiritual among us derive meaning from the natural world, believing certain patterns to be wordless tidings from the Aspects or portents of events to come, but rarely is this skill taught. It is innately held, usually by elders, who speak of prayer and meditation to the Aspects without being able to explain this to our young ones, our oem’iian, for it is a part of our culture best done through action rather than word.

 

Let this writing illume the divination practices open to followers of Aspectism and elnarnsae’ame, the Wild Faith. Each method requires careful study and contemplation to master, for scrying meaning from the elements is highly intuitive and relies more on feeling and instinct than any definitive guide.

 

This writing will focus on water, the primordial source of all life and the medium through which the Mother’s gentle wisdom flows. Just as we give our offerings to the water, so too can we turn to it in sacred communion, divining meaning from ripples, splashes, and the ever-changing surface. 

 

 

WE MUST FIRST LOOK TO THE CYCLES of day and night, with which water is deeply linked. Not only is there synergy and connection with the moon, as the controller of tides, but the sun’s heat determines rainfall and the winds, both of which create patterns on the water.

 

CYCLES OF DAY AND NIGHT

 

Midnight is the time for deep spiritual communication and seeking answers to life’s mysteries. It is at midnight that a diviner is able to achieve a trance-like state and see visions.

 

Dawn and dusk are the transitional times of day representing the shifting between light and dark. It is this sense of transformation that makes both the beginning and end of the day very powerful moments for divination. It is best used for questions requiring influence from both Aspects, with more Cerridwen-leaning questions taking place at dawn and questions for Cernunnos taking place at dusk.

 

Morning symbolises growth and forward momentum. It is best for exploring new ventures and setting future intentions.

 

Midday represents peak energy, strength, and vitality, and is therefore the optimal time to seek clarity on complex issues and guidance on personal matters.

 

The afternoon continues the energy of midday but with a gradual shift towards dusk. It is therefore suitable for guidance on ongoing matters.

 

Dusk, in addition to being a transitional time of day, is associated with release and reflection. Questions to the Father can take place at dusk, but it is also the best time to seek closure.

 

 

PHASES OF THE MOON

 

A new moon represents new beginnings. It can be used to seek clarity on new ventures, clearing energy to make space for personal growth.

 

Waxing crescents are ideal for exploring opportunities and determining steps that must be taken towards current goals.

 

When the moon is in its first quarter, this is a time of action and overcoming obstacles. Divination focus can be around resolving conflicts and taking bold steps forwards.

 

Nights of the waxing gibbous are when one should focus on refinement and observation. Use this opportunity to make plans, evaluate your life, and make small adjustments.

 

Nights of the full moon are recognised to have special energies, with moonwater being especially potent for divination. Full moons are best for spiritual or emotional enquiries, as it is a time of power and illumination.

 

The waning gibbous is associated with gratitude and introspection. During this phase, reflect on lessons learned and release negative influences.

 

The last quarter represents release and banishment, making it the perfect time to seek insight on removing obstacles and preparing for a fresh start.

 

A waning crescent is a time of rest and spiritual renewal. Diviners should use this phase to connect with inner wisdom, seek peace and balance from the Aspects, and release lingering doubts and fears.

 

 

Spoiler

You can do /date in game to find the exact date. This is a rough, non-canon guide on the moon phases for flavour.

 

New moon | days 1-3

Waxing crescent | days 4-6

First quarter | days 7-9

Waxing gibbous | days 10-12

Full moon | days 13-15

Waning gibbous | days 16-18

Last quarter | days 19-21

Waning crescent | days 22-24

 

TIDES

 

A rising ride represents growth, manifestation, new beginnings, and opportunities. It is ideal for asking questions about events to come and how to nurture growth and change.

 

High tide is when the sea is at its peak energy. It is a time of abundance, clarity, and empowerment. High tides should be used for quick manifestation, gaining insight at the height of a situation.

 

The ebbing tide is a time of release, banishing, cleansing, and self-reflection. 

 

Low tide represents stillness, peace, rest, and introspection. It is best for long and deep meditation to uncover secrets or divine what is hidden or dormant.

 

The slack tide, which is a brief pause between rising and ebbing tides, represents thresholds, moments of decision, and pauses before sudden change.

 

 

THERE ARE DIFFERENT AREAS OF LIFE that we often seek clarity on. Love and relationships, family, conflict, our place in the world. Not only can we use the times of day and the phases of the moon to bring power to our divination, but we can also tailor our practices and the bodies of water we use to derive clearer meaning.

 

In general, a practitioner should use a larger body of water to derive meaning about events with far-reaching consequences. For example, seeking guidance on the outcome of a war would likely involve looking to the ocean. In comparison, small, personal decisions can likely be made by looking at the patterns in a water bowl.

 

There are also different meanings associated with the type of water, whether it is still, flowing, shifting, or ephemeral.

 

 

Still Water

 

Still water includes bowls, ponds, pools, and lakes. Water diviners often drop items into the water to scry meaning from the patterns of the splashes and ripples. Those more experienced in divination might simply look at the way the water reacts to wind. Still water has the energy of clarity, introspection, reflection, and calm, making it perfect for seeking hidden truths, spiritual insight, and emotional clarity.

 

One might use a different item to drop into the water depending on the nature of the questions asked. For example, pumice stones are associated with spiritual practices and their cleansing, grounding energies. Flower petals can be used, integrating the practice of Tiva, as can oils derived from certain plants. Ink is commonly used by beginners because of the clear patterns it makes in the water, whereas small pebbles and stones produce strong ripples and splashes. Seeds, herbs, leaves, and gemstones are also common.

 

The item chosen can add a unique dimension to divination, allowing the practitioner to interpret the resulting patterns or movements in a way that deeply resonates with their question or intention. Getting a sense of which item to use generally comes with practice and experience.

 

Interpreting splashes

 

I. Single large splash | A significant event or revelation, or a major interruption.

 

II. Multiple small splashes | A series of small changes or events that collective lead to a larger outcome. Can also signify emotional release or the need to address multiple issues simultaneously.

 

III. Splashes causing significant disturbances | Turmoil and challenge.

 

IV. A large splash but the water quickly returns to calm | Resilience and the ability to overcome difficulties.

 

V. Splashes in different directions | Diverse influences or paths in life, requiring the consideration of multiple perspectives or options.

 

Spoiler

You can do /roll 5 to see which type of splash is created.

 

Interpreting the ripples

 

I. Circular | Completeness, cycles, wholeness and fulfillment.

 

II. Expanding | Growth, expansion, the far-reaching effects of one’s actions.

 

III. Intersecting | The influence or conflict of different paths in life.

 

IV. Spiral | Transformation, personal growth, spiritual journeys.

 

V. Chaotic or irregular | Turmoil, challenges ahead, unexpected change.

 

VI. Smooth and gentle | Peace, harmony, a period of calm.

 

VII. Sharp and angular | Sudden changes, decisive actions.

 

VIII. Fading | Diminishing influences or the need to let go of certain people or objects.

 

Spoiler

After rolling for the splash, you can do /roll 8 to see which types of ripples form, and interpret both the splashes and the ripples  from there!

 

Flowing Water

 

Flowing water includes streams, rivers, and the sea, and is traditionally used to ask questions about movement and change. Much like with still water, objects are cast to derive meaning from how they interact with the flow of water. Most commonly, this is petals, leaves, and twigs. In the Rite of New Beginning, the ashes are scattered in a body of flowing water. This can be a time to divine meaning about the future, having let go of the past.

 

Rivers and streams have slightly different methods from the ocean, but are all used to ask questions and find meaning about change. In particular, the priesthood of Airafalassë practices divination of the shore, including tidal augury, moon divination, and seawater scrying. The Way of the Mother incorporates some of these divination practices, though the two are distinct. It is well understood and accepted that divining meaning from the ocean is the most difficult practice to master.

 

 

Rivers, streams, and brooks

 

I. Smooth, direct movement downstream | Progress and clarity. Events will unfold rapidly and with little resistance.

 

II. Stuck or spinning | Obstacles, a need for reflection, and a need to address unresolved issues.

 

III. Breaking apart | Necessary endings, fracturing of old structures or relationships.

 

IV. Clustering | Unity, convergence of influences, romantic connection, harmony.

 

The sea

 

I. Calm, gentle waves | Peace, clarity, and a smooth path ahead. A good omen for those seeking harmony or resolution.

 

II. Strong, crashing waves | Emotional upheaval, obstacles, a warning of turbulent times to come.

 

III. Erratic or choppy waves | Inner turmoil, unpredictability, external chaos.

 

IV. Driftwood, shells, and seaweed moving in to shore | Opportunities, messages, support being forthcoming.

 

V. Objects carried away from shore | Release, letting go, someone or something leaving one’s life.

 

VI. Objects swirling in eddies or caught in tidepools | A sense of being stuck, needing patience, or that a situation is more complex than it appears on the surface.

 

VII. Clear reflections | Clarity of mind, truth, insight.

 

VIII. Distorted or shifting reflections | Confusion, hidden truths, the need to look deeper for answers and understanding.

 

IX. Symbols or faces appearing in the water | Spiritual guidance from the beyond.

 

X. Bright, sparkling water | Hope, inspiration, positive energy.

 

XI. Dark, murky water | Hidden dangers, emotional heaviness, unresolved issues.

 

 

Shifting Water

 

Shifting water such as tidepools and wetlands represents transformation, liminality, and unpredictability. It can therefore be used for questions during periods of flux, or about situations that are unstable or constantly changing. 

 

For tidepools specifically, coastal Tiva can be looked to for deeper meaning. For example, seeing an abalone shell in a tidepool can symbolise tranquility and inner peace, influencing the interpretation of the water.

 

I. Clear water | Clarity, truth, insight, a favourable time for action.

 

II. Murky or cloudy water  | Confusion, hidden truths, and the need for caution and further reflection.

 

III. Bubbles | Rising thoughts, deeper communication, new ideas, spiritual messages.

 

IV. Inflowing water | New beginnings, opportunities, fresh energy entering one’s life, growth.

 

V. Outflowing water | Release, grief, banishment.

 

Ephemeral Water

 

Ephemeral water refers to water that is quick to arrive and quick to pass, such as rain, mist, and fog. In terms of divination, ephemeral water is used for times of renewal, cleansing, and sudden insight, asking questions during times of upheaval or when one seeks purification or emotional healing.

 

Rain, in particular, is used for personal introspection and scrying about relationships. This is done by watching the patterns raindrops make on leaves or other flat surfaces.

 

Rain

 

I. Straight, direct path | Easy resolutions with little to no obstacles.

 

II. Curved, jagged, or erratic path | Obstacles, complexity, deceit.

 

III. Raindrops merging with each other | Outside influences affecting one’s choices, new people entering one’s life for better or for worse.

 

IV. Solitary raindrop | Independence, self-reliance, no outside interference, loneliness.

 

V. Droplet remains still | An event or person being within reach but not yet in one’s current path.

 

VI. Droplets racing to the bottom | A path into the unknown, outcomes not yet determined, the future being unclear or in flux.

 

VII. Large, heavy drops | Strong emotions, significant events.

 

VIII. Light, gentle drops | Subtle influences, gentle guidance, emotional healing, renewal, peace.

 

Mist and fog

 

I. Thick, enveloping fog | Deep mysteries, the presence of powerful and unseen forces.

 

II. Light, patchy mist | Emerging truths, partial understanding, clarity after confusion.

 

III. Lifting or parting mist | A positive omen symbolising the revelation of long-hidden truths, the end of confusion, and the arrival of insight.

 

IV. Thickening mist | Increasing uncertainty, a need for patience, deliberate concealment of the truth, deception.

 

V. Swirling or shifting shapes | Subconscious messages, a need for spiritual connection.

 

VI. Fading mist | Spiritual awakening.

 

 

WATER, BEING THE SOURCE OF ALL LIFE,  is also where many creatures make their home. Seeing certain animals or insects during sessions of divination can add dimension and deeper meaning. Practitioners should also consider the meaning of the animal based on the knowledge we hold of the Mani.

 

 

Ocean

 

I. Dolphin | Good luck, harmony, spiritual guidance.

 

II. Shark | Approaching danger, a need for assertiveness or to set boundaries.

 

III. Whale | Deep spiritual insight, protection.

 

IV. Seahorse | Endurance, adaptability, progress.

 

V. Octopus | Intelligence, creativity.

 

VI. Turtle | Endurance, slow but steady progress, the need to protect the balance.

 

VII. Starfish | Recovery after grief and loss, new beginnings, diving blessings from the Aspects.

 

VIII. Jellyfish | Surrender, balance, subtle warning.

 

IX. Crab | The need for self-protection, transformation, harbinger of cyclical changes.

 

X. Seal | Joy, adaptability, inspiration.

 

XI. Stingray | Graceful navigation of challenges, a need to trust one’s intuition.

 

XII. Swordfish | Assertiveness, the need for decisive action, clarity in one’s choices.

 

XIII. Squid | A calling to explore the unknown, increased flexibility in uncertain times.

 

XIV. Sea slug | Inner healing, resilience.

 

XV. Seagull | A need to seize opportunities and adapt to new circumstances.

 

Rivers & Wetlands

 

I. Salmon | Overcoming adversity, perseverance, returning to roots, abundance.

 

II. Otter | A sign to embrace joy and release seriousness.

 

III. Kingfisher | Good luck, success, courage to take risks.

 

IV. Crocodile | Hidden dangers or challenges.

 

V. Heron | Reflection, patience, observance.

 

VI. Beaver | A time for rebuilding and repair, or nurturing of foundational relationships.

 

VII. Frog | Emotional cleansing, new opportunities.

 

VIII. Dragonfly | Prosperity, the need to live in the moment, self actualisation, maturity.

 

Spoiler

You can perform these rolls on their own, or in addition to the other rolls outlined above to have more things to divine meaning from!

 

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[jqsmlne 460]

Sitting down by the shore of Illivira, Liriana closed her eyes and listened to the quiet, peaceful sounds of the beach.

 

Slowly she opened her eyes and reached out for the scroll and a book, studying the teachings of divination as the sun rose.