Beyond its culinary uses, cinnamon carries a rich history of symbolism, spiritual significance, and is even believed to have divinatory powers. In many cultures, the aroma and essence of cinnamon hold special meaning, making it a fascinating element in various divination practices. Let's explore what cinnamon means in divination and how it's used.

Symbolism of Cinnamon

Across diverse cultures and spiritual traditions, cinnamon is frequently associated with:

• Protection: Cinnamon is believed to ward off negative energies and create a protective barrier.
• Prosperity and Abundance: It's linked with attracting wealth, good fortune, and success.
• Love and Passion: Cinnamon's warm, spicy scent is thought to ignite passion and enhance love.
• Spirituality and Psychic Abilities: It's believed to boost psychic awareness, promote spiritual connection, and enhance intuition.

Cinnamon in Divination Practices

Here are some ways cinnamon is incorporated into different forms of divination:

• Burning Cinnamon: Burning cinnamon sticks or incense is a common method. The smoke is believed to carry your intentions or questions to the universe, and insights are gleaned from interpreting the patterns and movement of the smoke.
• Cinnamon in Candle Magic: Incorporating cinnamon powder or essential oil into candle magic rituals is believed to enhance manifestations related to love, prosperity, and protection.
• Cinnamon Tea Divination (Tasseomancy): After drinking cinnamon tea, any remaining leaves or spice patterns at the bottom of the cup are interpreted for symbolic messages.
• Divination with Cinnamon Sticks: Cinnamon sticks can be marked with symbols or intentions and then burned or cast. The way they crackle, burn, or fall is interpreted for divination purposes.

Interpreting Cinnamon in Divination

While cinnamon generally holds positive connotations in divination, the interpretation can be nuanced based on the specific practice and how it interacts with other elements. Some potential meanings include:

• Obstacles being overcome: Cinnamon can represent the strength to overcome challenges.
• Unexpected good fortune: It symbolizes the potential for positive surprises and blessings.
• Protection from harm: Cinnamon's protective energy could appear in readings concerning safety and security.
• Intensified love or passion: Cinnamon might signal an increase in romantic or sensual energy.

Important Note: Divination is a highly personal practice. Meanings and interpretations can vary across individuals and traditions. It's essential to develop your own understanding and connection with the symbols you use.

References

• Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs (Llewellyn Publications, 1985).
• Greer, Mary K. Tarot for Your Self: A Workbook for Personal Transformation. (Revised Edition, Llewellyn Publications 2015)
• The Element Encyclopedia Of 5000 Spells by Judika Illes (HarperElement, 2004)

Disclaimer Divination practices should be approached with an open mind and a sense of personal exploration. It's important to find practices that resonate with you and work best for your own intuitive abilities.

Let me know if you'd like more information on specific divination techniques using cinnamon, or would like to explore the symbolism of other spices and herbs!