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The art of Scrying
The word 'scry' comes from the word 'descry,' meaning to see or perceive. Mirror gazing, or scrying, is one of the oldest known forms of divination, dating back to antiquity. The famed prognosticator Nostradamus used a form of scrying to make his famous predictions, employing a dish filled with ink as his method. Yezidi mystics use a concave, polished bowl. Mormon prophet Joseph Smith contacted angels using a 'seer stone.' The infamous magician John Dee and his partner Edward Kelley used an obsidian crystal in their experiments, and we get the popular conception of a 'crystal ball' from the popularization of their methods.
There are almost endless surfaces suitable for scrying use. Mirrors and crystals are the most popular, but any item that provides a deep, reflective surface will do- water in a shallow dish, ink, a dark crystal- even a darkened television set!
One traditional belief about scrying is that it allows access to the Astral world, and makes communication with its inhabitants possible. Others believe that scrying produces a trance-like state, in which the scryer has easy access to his or her subconscious. Neither of these truly explains the experience of the 'Astral,' although there is a belief in some circles that the apparitions, angels, and other beings encountered are manifestations of the super conscious- messengers from one's own higher self.
Constructing a scrying mirror
As I mentioned earlier, there are several acceptable scrying tools. It is not important to follow any of the usual (and often quite silly) requirements. You do not need a 'pure' crystal or a 'charged' mirror. There are rationales supporting various methods, the purpose of which is usually to get the potential seer to put a certain degree of effort into the proceeding- but none of these is an absolute. All you need is an object that provides a dark, reflective surface, patience, and a comfortable place to sit. The most inexpensive to create is the black mirror, and there are several simple methods which can be used to create one.
Getting started
Purchase a large, inexpensive picture frame with a glass insert (of course, you can choose any frame that catches your fancy), and a can of flat black spray paint. Believe it or not, both items can be had from a large discount stor for about five dollars all together. Next, remove the glass from the frame and clean it with window cleaner- make sure to wipe off any lint or dust particles. Spray a light coat of paint over the glass and let it dry completely. Repeat with several more coats of paint, until no light shows through when the glass is held up to the light. When it is completely dry, simply replace the glass in the frame, with the painted surface on the inside. Another method is to ask a glass cutter to make you a circle of glass (be sure to have the edges sanded). Paint it as described above, and then glue a piece of felt over the paint (be sure to use white glue or another non-solvent glue to prevent marring the painted surface.)
Learning to scry
Scrying is not a hobby for the impatient. It takes a lot of practice, so don't get discouraged if you don't get immediate results. The first task is to create your space. You'll want a block of time without interruption, a room that can be darkened, and a place you can sit comfortably for long periods. You'll need a comfortable chair, preferably with a back on it, or a wall to sit against. You'll want to position your mirror (or whatever object you've chosen) at a comfortable angle; place it so that it does not reflect objects in the room. You need to have very little light- a small candle, a nite-light, etc. A flickering candle creates a strobing effect which you might find useful or distracting, so experiment a little to discover your preferences. (If you are using candles or incense, I strongly recommend that you use a timer or alarm clock, in case you fall asleep)
Next, create a consecrated space, using whatever method you prefer- smudging, a banishing ritual, casting a circle, etc. This helps to create a sense of protection, and to focus awareness on the task at hand.
I would discourage the use of music, incense, et al., until you are comfortable with this technique. Both can be useful, but for now, they are more likely to create a distraction.
Relaxation is essential- the more relaxed you are, the more likely you are to have success. Take a warm bath or a hot tub before beginning, or use a progressive relaxation technique, breathing, or whatever method you're most comfortable with, to achieve a state of relaxed awareness. This takes practice as well, so you might want to work on this for a few days before you go any further.
With that accomplished, sit comfortably. Breathe deeply and slowly, and let your eyes go slightly out of focus while gazing at the mirror. Concentrate on your breathing- not on the mirror. Keep your gaze relaxed..it's okay to blink. Concentrate only on your breathing. If thoughts or fantasies intrude, don't worry- just dismiss them and go back to your breathing.
Eventually, you may begin to see what appear to be sparks of light, or a 'foggy' effect. Don't concentrate on these phenomena- just remain relaxed, and allow them to develop. At some point, the images will become stronger- you may see pictures, shadows, or lights and colors. Continue for as long as you are comfortable- when you begin to feel restless, it's probably a good time to stop.
Record keeping
Don't worry if what you see makes no sense at first. After a session, write down your impressions, and make a note of your general state of mind. It is also a good idea to keep a record of any dreams that occur after a session- in fact, it is a good idea to record all of your dreams, as this will strengthen the lines of communication.
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