Divination by Dice

decorative graphic
I adapted this from a Victorian book. The original is below. Clearly sometimes Victorian ladies needed to use other methods to shape their fate!

Whereby a lady may discover her romantic fate.

If matters of health, family, or business are of more pressing interest at the moment, the answers can be interpreted in that way.

Instructions.

Roll two dice in the hands while saying, silently or aloud, "For better for worse, for richer for poorer..." then shake the dice and let them drop into a circle you have previously drawn on a surface. A circular cloth or paper will also serve, preferable white like the moon. Only attempt this divination once a month, if possible at the full moon.

If the dice roll out of the circle, the throw goes for nothing, but this mischance indicated an argument to come.
If they fall to the floor, you are in danger of losing a friend.
If one comes to rest on top of the other then you will soon receive a present of significance.

Interpretations of the dice

2    Alas, the signs are unfavorable.
3    You are in danger of making a mistake. Delay.
4    Accept that new responsibility. Your destiny awaits you there.
5    You will meet your romantic destiny this month, but may face some challenges before you find happiness.
6    You have a secret admirer and he may be the one.
7    Your dearest hopes will come true.
8    A person who lingers in your memory will contact you.
9    It is time to make the first move.
10    A change is needed before Cupid's darts can fly.
11    The month will present opportunities, but be cautious.
12    You will experience disappointment this month, but what seems sad will turn out for the best.


The Victorian original uses three dice.

decorative graphic
Take three dice, shake them well in the box in the left hand, and then cast them out on a board or table, on which you had previously drawn a circle with chalk, but never throw on a Monday or Wednesday.

3    A pleasing surprise
4    A disagreeable one
5     A stranger who will prove a friend
6     Loss of property
7     Undeserved scandal
8     Merited reproach
9     A wedding
10    A christening, at which some important event will occur to you
11    A death that concerns you
12    A letter, speedily
13    tears and sighs
14    a new admirer
15    Beware that you are not drawn into some trouble or plot
16    A pleasant journey
17    You will either be on the water, or have dealings with those belonging to it, to your advantage.
18    A great profit, rise in life, or some most desirable good will happen almost immediately.

The answers to the dice are always fulfilled within nine days.
To show the same number twice at one trial means news from abroad, be the number what it may.
If the dice roll over the circle, the throw goes for nothing, but the occurrence indicates sharp words, and if they fall to the floor, it is blows.
If one remains on top of the other, it is a present, of which the recipient should take care.


Back to the articles menu  Back to the site menu   Back to the home page