1 – The Ancient Oracles: Making the Gods Speak by Richard Stoneman, published in 2011. This book explores the role of oracles in ancient Greek and Roman cultures. It discusses the history and development of oracles, including their connection to various gods and goddesses. The author examines the different types of oracles, such as those that involved direct communication with the gods and those that were based on signs and omens. The book also explores the methods used by oracles, including the use of trance, hallucinogens, and divination tools like the Tarot. The author provides insights into the beliefs and practices of the people who used oracles, as well as the influence that oracles had on politics and society.
2 – Divination and Human Nature: A Cognitive History of Intuition in Classical Antiquity by Peter T. Struck, published in 2016. This book explores the role of intuition and divination in ancient Greek and Roman cultures. The author examines the ways in which divination was seen as a natural part of human experience and how it was used to understand the world and make decisions. The book also explores the cognitive processes involved in divination, including the ways in which intuition and other forms of unconscious knowledge were believed to play a role. The author also examines the relationship between divination and the development of ancient philosophy, particularly the concept of the “divine logos.”
3 – The Oxford Handbook of Witchcraft in Early Modern Europe and Colonial America edited by Brian P. Levack, published in 2013. This book is a collection of essays that explore the history of witchcraft and divination in Europe and America during the early modern period. The authors examine the cultural and social contexts in which witchcraft beliefs and practices emerged, as well as the ways in which they were used to exert power and control over individuals and communities. The book also explores the various methods of divination that were used during this time period, including astrology, palmistry, and cartomancy.
4 – Tarot and Other Meditation Decks: History, Theory, Aesthetics, Typology by Emily E. Auger, published in 2019. This book explores the history and use of meditation decks, including the Tarot, Lenormand, and other divination systems. The author examines the origins and development of these systems, as well as the ways in which they have been used for divination, meditation, and self-discovery. The book also explores the aesthetic and symbolic aspects of these decks, including the use of archetypes and mythological figures.
5 – The Cambridge Handbook of Western Mysticism and Esotericism edited by Glenn Alexander Magee, published in 2016. This book is a collection of essays that explore the history of mysticism and esotericism in the Western world. The authors examine the various traditions and practices that have emerged over time, including Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Kabbalah. The book also explores the ways in which these traditions have influenced art, literature, and philosophy, as well as their relationship to broader cultural and social trends.
6 – The Secret History of the World by Mark Booth, published in 2008. This book is a survey of the history of esotericism and occultism, from ancient Egypt to the present day. The author examines the various beliefs and practices associated with these traditions, including alchemy, astrology, and divination. The book also explores the ways in which esotericism and occultism have influenced art, literature, and popular culture, as well as their relationship to broader social and political movements.
7 – The Book of Thoth: A Short Essay on the Tarot of the Egyptians by Aleister Crowley, published in 1944. This book is a treatise on the Tarot, written by the influential occultist Aleister Crowley. The author provides a detailed examination of the symbolism and meanings associated with each card, as well as their relationship to ancient Egyptian mythology and the Qabalah. The book also explores the ways in which the Tarot can be used for divination and spiritual exploration.
8 – The Complete I Ching: The Definitive Translation by Taoist Master Alfred Huang, published in 1998. This book provides a comprehensive translation and commentary on the ancient Chinese divination system known as the I Ching. The author provides a detailed examination of each hexagram and line, as well as their meanings and relationships to one another. The book also explores the ways in which the I Ching can be used for self-discovery and decision-making.
9 – The Art and Practice of Geomancy: Divination, Magic, and Earth Wisdom of the Renaissance by John Michael Greer, published in 2009. This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the practice of geomancy, an ancient divination system that uses earth-based symbols and images. The author provides a detailed examination of the symbolism and meanings associated with each symbol, as well as the methods used for divination. The book also explores the ways in which geomancy was used for magic and spiritual practice during the Renaissance.
10 – The Oracles of Apollo: Practical Ancient Greek Divination for Today by John Opsopaus, published in 2017. This book provides a practical guide to the ancient Greek divination system known as the Oracles of Apollo. The author provides a detailed examination of the history and development of the system, as well as the methods used for divination. The book also explores the ways in which the Oracles of Apollo can be used for personal growth and spiritual practice in the modern world.
