Scrying mirrors are deeply rooted in human history and spirituality, serving as a bridge between the known and unknown. They are versatile tools used for divination, self-reflection, and spiritual communication, with a rich tradition that spans across many cultures and eras.

1. What is a Scrying Mirror? A scrying mirror is a black, reflective surface used as a tool for divination and spiritual insight. Practitioners, often called seers or scryers, gaze into the mirror to receive visions, messages, or symbols that are believed to come from the subconscious mind, spiritual entities, or the universe.

2. History and Origins The practice of scrying, using reflective surfaces for divination, is ancient and has been found in various cultures around the world:

• Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia: Early forms of scrying involved gazing into water, polished stones, or bowls filled with liquid. These cultures believed that such practices could reveal messages from the gods or the future.
• Ancient Greece and Rome: The Greeks and Romans used a technique called “catoptromancy,” where they gazed into mirrors or reflective surfaces for divination. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras is said to have used a similar method.
• Middle Ages in Europe: Scrying became associated with witchcraft and occult practices. However, some Christian mystics also used reflective surfaces to receive divine visions. During this time, the practice became more secretive due to the Church’s condemnation of anything associated with the occult.
• 19th Century and Occult Revival: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a revival of interest in occult practices, including scrying, due in part to the rise of spiritualism and Theosophy. During this period, the use of black mirrors became more popular, with practitioners believing that the dark surface better facilitated visions.

3. Types of Scrying Mirrors

• Black Obsidian Mirrors: Made from polished volcanic glass, obsidian mirrors are highly valued for their deep black color and natural origins. Obsidian has been used for scrying since ancient times.
• Glass Mirrors with Black Backing: These are made by painting the back of a glass pane with black paint or placing black fabric behind it. They are easier to make and more commonly used in modern times.
• Metal Mirrors: Some scrying mirrors are made from polished metals like brass or bronze. While not as commonly used today, these were popular in the past due to the reflective quality of polished metal.

4. How to Use a Scrying Mirror

• Preparation: The scryer typically prepares by creating a calm and focused environment. This might involve lighting candles, burning incense, or saying a prayer or mantra to set the intention.
• Gazing: The practitioner gazes softly into the mirror, often allowing their eyes to defocus slightly. It’s common for the scryer to enter a meditative or trance-like state. This can take time and practice, as the mind must be both focused and relaxed.
• Interpretation: As the scryer gazes into the mirror, images, symbols, or scenes may begin to appear. These could be literal or symbolic and often require interpretation. The meaning of the visions can depend on the scryer’s intuition, experience, and the context of the inquiry.
• Aftercare: Once the session is over, the scryer often records their visions in a journal for later reflection. The mirror is usually cleaned and stored carefully, often wrapped in a dark cloth, to maintain its energy and keep it free from unwanted influences.

5. Cultural Significance and Beliefs Different cultures have attributed various powers and meanings to scrying mirrors:

• Western Occult Tradition: Scrying mirrors are often associated with accessing hidden knowledge, communicating with spirits, or seeing into other realms. In the Western esoteric tradition, the black mirror is sometimes seen as a portal to the subconscious mind or the spirit world.
• Shamanic Practices: In some shamanic traditions, reflective surfaces are used to enter different states of consciousness or to communicate with the spirit world. The mirror acts as a tool for accessing other realms or dimensions.
• Modern Usage: Today, scrying mirrors are used in various spiritual and occult practices, including Wicca, neo-paganism, and modern witchcraft. They are often used for meditation, personal insight, and as a tool for connecting with spiritual guides.

6. Making and Consecrating a Scrying Mirror Creating a scrying mirror can be a personal and ritualistic process:

• Materials: Most commonly, a piece of glass is painted black on one side, or black fabric is used to create the reflective surface.
• Consecration: The mirror is often consecrated in a ritual, which might involve cleansing it with water, smudging it with sage or other herbs, and dedicating it to a particular purpose or deity.
• Charging: Some practitioners “charge” their mirror by placing it under the moonlight, particularly during a full moon, to imbue it with energy.