Throwing the Bones: An Instructional Book With a Final Focus on the Ethics of Divination

by Cindy Rhodes

Throwing the bones is an age-old process of divination. What are the origins? How does one acquire the tools? How is it done? This book examines the history, method, and ethics of throwing the bones.

42 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2019

Reviews

[Kerrie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Yes, the art of throwing bones exists among different groups and different backgrounds. Yes, people can learn how to throw bones. BUT you are NOT a Sangoma just because you throw bones. You are a diviner, a reader, a guide, but please do not call yourself a Sangoma. Sangoma are born into the role and called by the ancestors. A Sangoma goes through a strict initiation process which lasts for a minimum of 2 years. The process requires personal sacrifice and a restrictive protocol which dictates all aspects of the thwasa’s (apprentice’s) life from communication and interaction to food, sleep, and bathing. Ancestors are the blood and bone of the Sangoma’s connection and work. Sangoma receive beads throughout the initiation process. The beads all have meaning and are received in ceremony. From the first set of beads (which can not be removed) the Sangoma enters into a covenant with the ancestors and spirit and gives their life to the calling. A Sangoma belongs to the ancestors and spirit. All Sangoma also do not throw bones. There are many subsets. Learn to throw bones if you are drawn to the practice, but please do not call yourself a Sangoma.