Divination Part II: Dowsing Rods

Still in the back. We are summarizing the oldest known form of Divination today. Exciting I know. Touched on with Pendulums, the Use of Rods is actually the oldest for of Divination recorded.

Not so common as most other methods of Divination, but people, even those outside of the Occult community know what Dowsing is, it has been used even in the modern world to find lost objects or fresh water.

Dowsing Rods have been used for divination for centuries. Although there is evidence suggesting that dowsing was in use 8,000 years ago, the first historically recorded evidence of the use of dowsing dates back to 16th Century Germany. Dowsing rods were included in ceremonial magick rituals.

While not a part of every pagan household again the history earns this special form of divination an honorable mention. While explaining the "How" Aspect is a little subjective, I'll leave it to you to research the general information is:

Traditionally, the most common divining rod was a Y-shaped branch from a tree or bush. Some dowsers prefer branches from particular trees; hazel twigs in Europe and witch-hazel in the United States were commonly chosen. Some dowsers prefer the branches to be freshly cut. I will admit that I have no idea as to how these branches would be interpreted, as my limited exposure has been to the more modern method.

Many dowsers today use a pair of simple L-shaped metal rods; some even use bent wire coat hangers. One rod is held in each hand, with the short part of the L held upright, and the long part pointing forward. Some dowsers claim best success with rods made of particular metals, such as brass. These rods move freely within the users grip, only crossing when the object is found or objective is reached.

Dowsing Rods have a well known use in finding spirits.