alomancy

A divination method also known as Salt-mancy. It involves the use of salt to obtain an augury.

It is a very ancient mancy, born in Roman times.

Salt was a scarce product, especially in areas far from the coasts, which is why it was considered precious. Salt trafficking was common, as it was a very sought-after commodity for different rituals, ceremonies and offerings, as well as for general health and well-being. It was even used as currency.

The word salary has its origins in the fact that roman soldiers were paid with salt bags. The Latin word salarium means “payment with salt”.

It’s no surprise then that wasting or accidentally spilling salt was considered an offense to the pagan gods. Even today, spilling salt or passing it from hand to hand is considered a bad omen, which is considered as remedied by throwing a bit of salt over the left shoulder.

Because of its sacred character, salt was paired with fire in a divination method. The way to do it is very simple: grains of salt are thrown into the fire in a swift motion, and the crackling and popping sounds they produce are listened to. Depending on the intensity of the sounds a positive or negative omen is divined– for instance, if it is strong and loud, that is considered an omen of good fortune. If, however, the sound is weak, then good fortune is not near.

In addition to interpreting the sound of the salt when thrown in the fire, the smoke generated and the appearance of the flames is also observed for divination. The future is considered positive if flames are bright and clear.

 Another method of divination using salt can be practiced today by spreading a teaspoon of salt on a tray or table or any flat surface, and then reading and interpreting the random forms left by chance.

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