Divination in the Desert
The pre-Islamic Arabs, both settled and nomadic, developed divination practices shaped by the desert environment. Azlam (divination arrows) were kept at the Kaaba and drawn to make decisions. Kahins (soothsayers) delivered oracles in rhymed prose (saj), claiming inspiration from jinn. Star lore was essential for navigation and seasonal planning, and the Arabs were among the most skilled naked-eye astronomers of the ancient world.
The Origin of Geomancy
Geomapcy (ilm al-raml, the science of sand) likely originated in this region, using patterns drawn in sand to answer questions. This practice became the foundation of both Arabic and European geomantic traditions. The reading of bird flight (tiyara) and the interpretation of natural omens was widespread.
Related Traditions
- Geomancy — the method deep-dive
- Geomancy tool — cast a shield chart
- The Islamic World — what these traditions became
- The Cosmic Library