Sycomancy
Sycomancy is a divination by the leaves of the fig tree.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek sūkon ('fig') and manteia ('prophecy')
Methods
In sycomancy, the diviner's question or proposition is written a fig leaf. If afterwards the leaf dried slowly, then the prophecy is good; but, if the leaf dried quickly, the omen is bad.
Another form of divination employs techniques similar to Tasseomancy, where shapes and forms made by the fig tree leaves in the cup after the tea was drunk are used in reading.
This ancient form of augury can be also tested with leaves from sycamores or other trees. There is a modern version involving ivy leaves, which are placed in water for five days and then examined. If the leaf is still fresh and green, the concerned person will have good health, but a spotted, darkened leaf denotes illness or misfortune in proportion to the number of such sinister marks.
There is a modern version involving ivy leaves, which are placed in water for five days and then examined. If still fresh and green, good health should attend the person named thereon, but a spotted, darkened leaf denotes illness or misfortune in proportion to the number of such sinister marks.
Writing your message on regular slips of paper is another modern form. Always include one blank sheet. Roll them up and hold them in a strainer over a boiling pot. The first to unroll will be answered.
SEE ALSO:
- Botanomancy
- Phyllomancy
- Tasseomancy
- Augury
- Divinations
