The Misunderstood Ouija Board

The most misunderstood item in the diviner’s toolbox is probably the Ouija board. Since its invention the debate continues to this day whether this famous item is merely a game, a glimpse into our subconscious, a gateway into the spirit realms, or even an “instrument of evil.”

Like any channeling object or psychic tool, the Ouija board must be used with great care and respect. Its origins go back to the late 19th century and the practice of spiritualism, or séances to connect with loved ones who had passed on. Its design is simple: a flat board with letters and numbers, plus basic words like “yes” and “no,” but its usage is much more complex.

Divination is turning out to be much more trouble than I could have foreseen, never having studied the subject myself ~ J.K. Rowling

It’s best to engage in your Ouija session with an open mind, and advisable to have one or more partners to work in tandem with you. Depending on your spiritual practice, make an affirmation or prayer for the work you are about to perform, and ask for clarity and guidance. You will be interfacing directly with the spirit realms, and it is best to show humility and gratitude.

Place the board on your laps, not on a table. You may wish to light candles or burn incense in the room. It’s a good idea to “warm up” your board by moving you and your partner’s hands over it and the planchette (indicator). You can also place an object made of silver, renowned for its purity, on top of the board to bless it.

Some people say that the Ouija board only attracts negative, hostile or mischievous spirits. This is not true in my experience. Stating your intentions upfront will discourage such unwanted influences, as will the silver. For example, “I invite only positive, light energies here to serve the greater good.”
The board itself, and the spirit or spirits present, will take it from there.

Start by asking simple yes or no questions. Remember the lie detector tests in movies, and how the questioner always starts with things like names or ages? Think of it that way. Take this very seriously; asking frivolous or unnecessary questions will get you the same kinds of answers. The spirits are honoring you with their presence. Treat them as important guests. Don’t ask them questions that you yourself would not want to answer! You can build to anything you like, such as relationships, money, or jobs, but it is advisable not to ask anything related to death, such as when you or a friend will die.

A friend comes over with a Ouija board. It spells out: Bourbon. Where’s the band? Just because you’re dead doesn’t mean you can’t have fun ~ Kelli Russell Agodon

One person in your group may be designated as a recorder in order to write down the answers received. It is important to think of these not so much literally as symbolically. When we use other divining methods, such as crystals or tea leaves, or when we interpret dreams, they are rarely if ever real depictions of events. Ouija sessions are much the same. Use an open mind, and later reflect on the written answers in prayer or meditation.

Because the board is a literal gateway, it’s very important to close each session so that the door to the other side shuts. When you have finished asking questions, thank your spirit or spirits, and move your planchette to the word “Goodbye” on the boards, and then close the board. It’s also best to keep sessions short, in order not to exhaust either yourself or the messenger.

The Ouija can be an excellent tool for spirit communication and personal insight…just make an effort to use it the correct way.