Ouija & Spirit Boards

Ouija & Spirit Boards

Spirit boards hold a unique place in Wiccan and Pagan practices, offering a gateway to the unseen realms. When used with care and reverence, they can provide profound insights and connections. As with all spiritual tools, their power lies in the intention, energy, and respect brought to the practice.

Spirit Boards in Popular Media

Spirit boards have appeared in numerous forms of media over the years, reflecting both fascination and fear surrounding their use. In books, films, and television, they are often depicted as tools that bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual worlds. Some portrayals, like those in stories of helpful guidance or ancestral communication, highlight their potential for positive connection and insight.

Conversely, spirit boards are frequently associated with horror and suspense, as seen in films like The Exorcist and Ouija. These portrayals emphasize the dangers of improper use, suggesting that such boards can inadvertently summon malevolent forces or disrupt the balance between realms. While these narratives can create a sense of caution, they also contribute to the mystique and enduring popularity of spirit boards. Practitioners within Wiccan and Pagan communities often critique these depictions as overly sensationalized, emphasizing instead the importance of respect and intention when using these spiritual tools.

A Brief History of Spirit Boards

The origins of spirit boards can be traced back to ancient divination methods, such as writing on sand or using planchettes to spell out messages. Historical evidence suggests that forms of spirit communication date as far back as ancient China, where a method called "fuji" involved using a suspended stick or stylus to write messages in sand or ash. Similar practices have been documented in ancient Greece and Rome, where individuals sought divine answers through tools like oracles and other forms of divination.

In the 19th century, during a time of widespread interest in Spiritualism, the modern talking board began to take shape. Spiritualism, which emerged in the United States and Europe, sought to connect the living with the spirits of the deceased through mediums and séances. Early spirit boards were created as a simpler and more direct way to communicate with spirits without requiring a trained medium.

The "Ouija" board, patented in 1891 by Elijah Bond and popularized by William Fuld, was initially marketed as a parlor game for entertainment. However, its ability to seemingly deliver messages from beyond captivated both casual users and serious spiritual seekers. Over the 20th century, the Ouija board gained a reputation as a mystical and sometimes controversial tool, due in part to its portrayal in popular culture and folklore.

In modern Wiccan and Pagan practices, spirit boards are embraced as a means of connecting with deities, ancestors, and spiritual energies. These communities often view the boards as sacred tools rather than mere games, imbuing them with rituals and symbolic meanings that align with their beliefs. Custom-made boards, adorned with personalized symbols and crafted with specific materials, have become increasingly popular among practitioners.

The History and Use of Spirit Boards in Wiccan and Pagan Practices

Spirit boards, sometimes known as talking boards, have a long and intriguing history in spiritual practices. While "Ouija" is a trademarked term referring to one specific type of spirit board, the generic term encompasses a variety of boards used for divination and communication with the unseen realms. These tools are particularly significant in Wiccan and Pagan traditions, where they are valued for their ability to facilitate connection with spirits, deities, and ancestral energies.

How Spirit Boards Are Believed to Work

Spirit boards operate on the principle of channeling spiritual energy through the users. Participants lightly place their fingers on a planchette, which moves across the board’s surface to spell out messages. The belief is that the planchette is guided by spirits, deities, or the subconscious mind of the participants, depending on the practitioner’s intention.

In Wiccan and Pagan traditions, the board is often viewed as a medium for accessing higher wisdom or contacting specific spirits. The success of the session depends on the focus and energy of the participants, as well as the sacredness of the space in which the board is used. Many practitioners cleanse and consecrate their spirit boards before use, ensuring they are attuned to positive and benevolent energies.

Using a Spirit Board

Using a spirit board can be a profound experience, but it requires preparation and respect. If you are doubtful or hesitant to use one, the best advice would be don’t. Here is a basic guide to using a spirit board effectively:

1. Prepare Your Space
   Choose a quiet, sacred space where you will not be disturbed. Cleanse the area with sage, incense, or another purification ritual. Dim the lights and set the mood with candles or soft music if desired.

2. Select Your Board
   Whether you use a trademarked Ouija board or a custom-made spirit board, ensure it resonates with your intentions. Personalizing your board with symbols or designs that are meaningful to you can enhance its power.

3. Set an Intention
   Begin by stating your purpose clearly. Whether you wish to contact a specific spirit, seek guidance, or simply explore the energies around you, setting a clear intention helps focus the session.

4. Invite the Energy
   Place the planchette in the center of the board and lightly rest your fingertips on it. Invite the spirits or energies you wish to communicate with to join you. Be polite and respectful in your invitation.

5. Ask Questions
   Start with simple yes-or-no questions to establish a connection. Allow the planchette to move naturally and spell out responses. Avoid pushing or influencing its motion.

6. Interpret the Answers
   Record the responses as they appear. Interpretation may require intuition and an understanding of the symbols or words used by the board.

7. Close the Session
   When you are finished, thank the spirits or energies for their communication. Move the planchette to the word "Goodbye" (if present) or otherwise indicate the session is complete. Cleanse the board to release any residual energies.