Divination Space Station is the place where we stop to interview authors, psychics, and diviners from around the world. This time I am so excited to feature Author DJ Martin. DJ’s books include: Herbs, Medicinal, Magical, Marvelous; A Green Witch’s Formulary; Baneful! 95 of the World’s Worst Herbs; and A Green Witch’s Cupboard as well as the Ogre’s Assistant urban fantasy series.
When did you start divining? With what method?
Oh, heavens. I don’t remember when. A teenager? I started out with something-hanging-from-a-string a very long time ago for yes/no questions (which is all I knew about then).
Perhaps 20 years ago, I was attracted to runes. (Don’t remember the impetus for it.) So, I bought a cheap set of runes and started learning by reading books, rote memorization of the figures and meanings, and casting the stones. Once I decided I liked the method and that it worked for me, I purchased stones and made my own.
Which method do you use most often now?
I still use a “pendulum” (which is actually just one of the necklaces I wear). My life is settled enough that yes/no is usually all I need. If it’s more complicated, or if I’m doing a reading for someone else, then I use runes.
How important is the choice/phrasing of the question?
I think it’s important to be as precise as possible when asking a question. The more vague the question, the more vague the answer. On the other hand, a quick “what do I need to know for today/this week/this month”, while vague, will give you something to think about.
Depending on the querent’s issue(s), sometimes it has to be one question at a time. Other times, the questions sort of lead into one another and you can rephrase them all into one.
Do you have a yes/no method of divining you recommend?
I still use my necklace. Or you can use a purchased pendulum that has been cleansed. Or, a small stone tied to a string. You just need something weighted that can dangle freely. Hold it over your palm, get it to still, then ask it which direction is ‘yes’ and which is ‘no’. If you feel it necessary, test it by asking a question you know the answer to. Then ask your question.
This method requires a steady hand. If you don’t have one, there are stands specifically made to hold a pendulum. Otherwise:
I know some people use tarot cards. They ask their question then draw a card from the deck. When they flip it face-up, if it’s upright, the answer is ‘yes’; if reversed, the answer is ‘no’. That would work, too. (Too many playing cards are identical either direction to make those an easy use.)
Is there any advice you have for newcomers when using divination?
Keep an open mind. A lot of time, you won’t get the answer you were expecting, or the answer you wanted. But isn’t that why we ask questions in the first place?
Also, the answers runes give aren’t as detailed as those of tarot. To me, they require more thought on the matter. But to my way of thinking, any divination method is a guide, not a step-by-step instruction manual. So, making you think about the situation is no bad thing.
Are there any new projects you are developing?
Divination-wise? No. I’m comfortable with what I have. (Although, it’s getting time to re-mark my stones. They’re getting worn.) Writing? I’m in the final stages of research for another herb book and have the third book of my urban fantasy series in the back of my mind. I hope to have both of those out sometime next year.
Deborah J. Martin has practiced magical and medicinal herbalism for over thirty years, earning her Master Herbalist diploma from the American College of Healthcare Sciences. DJ Martin’s next appearance will be at the Hoot Owl Attic Metaphysical store in Atlanta, Georgia on September 23, 2017. If you would like to learn more about DJ Martin please check out her website www.authordjmartin.com
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