Divining with the Celtic Ogham

The Ogham, an ancient Celtic alphabet consisting of 20 characters, has a powerful connection to nature and the spiritual realm. Dating back to the 4th century, the Ogham was originally used by Druids as a means of communication and recording important information. Each symbol is associated with a specific tree or plant, making it a potent tool for divination and connecting with the energies of the natural world.

The druids believed that the symbols were given to humanity by the gods themselves. A more modern view is that they were created by the Druids as a way to encode their knowledge and wisdom. Whatever its origins, the Ogham has become an integral part of Celtic pagan practices, with many using it for divination, spellwork, and meditation.

In modern times, the Ogham is often used for divination. Just as one would use tarot cards or runes, the Ogham can be used to gain insight into a situation, receive guidance from the spiritual realm, or uncover hidden truths. Each symbol has its own unique meaning and energy, making it a versatile tool for the practicing witch.

To use the Ogham for divination, one can simply draw a symbol at random and meditate on its meaning. Each symbol is associated with a specific tree or plant, which can provide additional insight into its message. For example, the symbol for the birch tree represents new beginnings and fresh starts, while the symbol for the oak tree symbolises strength and endurance.

One can also create a spread using the Ogham, much like one would with tarot cards. By laying out multiple symbols in a specific pattern, you can gain a more in-depth understanding of a situation or question. Each symbol can be interpreted individually, or as part of a larger narrative that unfolds throughout the reading.

In addition to divination, the Ogham can also be used in spellwork. By incorporating the symbols into rituals and spells, you can harness the energy of the trees and plants they represent. For example, you could use the symbol for the willow tree in a spell for healing or the symbol for the yew tree in a ritual for protection.

The Ogham is a powerful tool for those practicing Celtic paganism. Its ancient origins and deep connection to nature make it a valuable resource for those looking to deepen their spiritual practice and connect with the energies of the natural world.