catoptromancy etymology

Etymology:

  • Derived from the Greek words:
    • katoptron (κάτοπτρον): "mirror"
    • manteia (μαντεία): "divination"

Meaning:

Catoptromancy is a form of divination that involves using a mirror to gain insight into the future or receive messages from the spirit world.

Origin:

Catoptromancy has its roots in ancient Greece, where it was practiced by priests and priestesses to communicate with the gods. It is believed to have originated in Persia and spread throughout the Middle East and Europe over time.

During the Middle Ages, catoptromancy was associated with astrology and alchemy. Practitioners would use mirrors to reflect light from the stars and planets into a sacred space, where they believed they could communicate with celestial entities.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, catoptromancy became popular in England and France. It was often used by magicians and astrologers to predict events and create magical effects. However, it also attracted skepticism and criticism from religious authorities, who viewed it as a form of sorcery.

Today, catoptromancy is still practiced by some spiritualists and New Age adherents, who believe that it allows them to connect with the spirit world and receive guidance.

catoptromancy relate terms

  • catoptric

    Etymology The word catoptric originates from the Greek words kata down and optikos

  • cata

    Etymology The word cata is derived from the Greek prefix κατά kata which means

  • mania

    Etymology Greek mania meaning madness frenzy Meaning and Origin In its psych

  • rehabilitation

    Etymology The word rehabilitation originates from the Latin verb rehabilitare which

  • discrepancy

    Etymology Discrepancy is derived from the Latin word discrepantia which means diffe

  • imperative

    Etymology The word imperative is derived from the Latin word imperare meaning to co

  • conspiracy

    Etymology The word conspiracy comes from the Latin word conspirare which means to b

  • style

    Etymology The word style originated from the Latin word stilus which means a pointe

  • martyr

    Etymology The word martyr originates from the Greek word μάρτυς martys whic

  • picnic

    Etymology The word picnic is derived from the French phrase pique nique which means

  • consequence

    Etymology and Meaning of Consequence Origin Middle French consequence Late Latin

  • bead

    Etymology The word bead comes from the Old English word bede which means prayer T