Divination 102: Ancient Wisdom Traditions of the East & West

MoonHaven School of Magic is excited to share with you a sampler course of magical systems from around the world! Join us for a four-part survey course of divination systems in Europe and Asia, with an emphasis on how they relate to the philosophy of Yoga & Ayurveda. We will cover the metaphysical systems of India, China, Europe, and the British Isles in this adventure of discovery. You may be surprised to see the similarities and nuanced differences between these many ancient wisdom traditions. Bring a journal and dress comfortably for this lighthearted, interactive lecture series.

**Drop in to a single class for $35, or sign up for the complete four-week course for $125.

October 2nd - Week 1: Jhyotish & The Five Elements of Ayurveda

Did you know that Yoga has its own astrology system called Jhyotish, the Study of Light? Learn the basic personalities of the 7 planets of Jhyotish astrology, discover how Jhyotish is different from Western Astrology, and get a glimpse at the concept of the Nakshatras, or birth stars. We’ll lay the foundations for thinking about the world in terms of elements, starting with the five elements that are recognized by Yoga & Ayurveda. An intriguing peek into the depth and esotericism of Vedic studies, this workshop will broaden your appreciation for the ancient practice of yoga.

October 9th - Week 2: I-Ching & The Five Chinese Elements

China has a rich and ancient lineage of medicine and philosophy that is based on their own unique version of the five elements. Discover the five-elemental theory behind practices like Yin Yoga, and learn how the Chinese system conceptualizes the turn of the seasons, both inside our bodies and in the world of nature. Once we’ve covered the basic elements, we’ll take a glance at the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac, and give a brief introduction to the I-Ching, an elegant and intriguing system of divination & philosophy from China’s past.

October 16th - Week 3: Tarot & The Four Western Elements

Western alchemists of the Middle Ages recognized four elements, derived from the ancient Greek literature that was popular at the time. This four-elemental perspective of the world of nature evolved slightly differently than the Vedic or Chinese systems. We’ll examine how the four Western elements have been associated with the four cardinal directions of the compass, and the four minor suits of the Tarot deck. We’ll take a thoughtful look at the Tarot itself and its use as a system of divination and a tool for deep introspection of the psyche.

October 23rd - Week 4: Runes & The Celtic Three Realms

In the Celtic lands, the Druids divided the world into three realms rather than four elements. We’ll explore the symbolism of these realms, and then consider where some of the “missing" elements might fit in to the wisdom tradition of the Celts. In addition, we’ll touch on the Druidic alphabet and system of astrology, called the Ogham, which is based on sacred trees that are native to the British Isles. We’ll then transition to Norse culture and take a look at the ancient Runes, which are an alphabet that can be used as a system of divination, as a set of symbols for energy work, or as visualization tools for meditation practices.

$125 for all four workshops. Dates are October 2, 9, 16 & 23