How Do You Spell STICHOMANCY?

Pronunciation: [stˈɪt͡ʃəmənsi] (IPA)

Stichomancy is a word that refers to the practice of divining by selecting passages from a book at random. It is spelled s-t-i-c-h-o-m-a-n-c-y and its phonetic transcription is /stɪˈkɒmənsi/. The first syllable "stich" is pronounced as "stihk" and the second syllable "o" is pronounced as "a". The suffix "-mancy" comes from the Greek word "mantia" meaning "divination". Stichomancy was a popular method of divination in ancient times and is still used by some today.

STICHOMANCY Meaning and Definition

1. Stichomancy is a divination method that involves randomly selecting passages or lines from a book, usually in a haphazard or instinctual manner, and interpreting them as meaningful messages or answers to questions. The term "stichomancy" is derived from the Greek words "stichos," meaning verse or line, and "manteia," meaning divination.

   In practice, individuals using stichomancy may close their eyes, flip through a book, and stop at a particular page or line without any conscious intention. Some enthusiasts believe that these seemingly random passages hold hidden insights or guidance that can be applied to personal or spiritual matters. Others may view stichomancy as a method of spontaneous or intuitive bibliomancy, a broader form of divination using books.

   The interpretation of stichomancy readings often relies on the symbolism, language, imagery, or themes found in the selected passages. Some practitioners may interpret the exact words, while others focus on the broader message or feeling conveyed by the excerpt. The interpretation can be subjective, requiring the reader to apply their own intuition, knowledge, and perspective.

   Stichomancy can be performed with any type of book, including sacred texts, poetry anthologies, or even novels. The choice of book can influence the themes and symbolism that emerge during a reading. However, the validity and accuracy of stichomancy, like other divination methods, depend on an individual's belief system and their ability to discern meaning from seemingly random events or passages.

2. Divination from the assumed meaning of a line or verse, taken at hazard, as from Scripture.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for STICHOMANCY

• sgichomancy
• syichomancy
• sichomancy

Etymology of STICHOMANCY

The word "Stichomancy" is derived from two Greek roots: "stichos", meaning "line" or "verse", and "manteia", meaning "divination" or "prophetic art". "Stichomancy" as a term combines these two elements to refer specifically to the practice of divination or seeking guidance through passages or lines of text, typically from a book or sacred script.