A quick look at the art of Palmistry or Chiromancy

There is a rich and ancient history to this science. Have you ever wondered what it is that a Palm Reader or Seer might discern in the map etched on the palms of your hands?

A map that is uniquely individual, to every soul on this Earth. It’s a staggering thought when considering that this is true for all of humanity throughout all of time.

Little wonder then that Palmistry or Chiromancy, is one of the most ancient and enduring of all the metaphysical Talents. As valid in its ancient lineage, as the practice of Astrology and Astronomy. It may be defined as a ‘tool of divination’ — the art of telling the future, personality and the soul path of an individual by examination of the lines and configuration of the palm.

It is one of the oldest of the prophetic tools and the science of it is based on the premise that our physical body is a true and visible reflection of our inner nature. Aristotle discovered a treatise on the subject of palmistry on an altar of Hermes, which he then presented to Alexander the Great (356–323 B.C.E.), who took great interest in examining the character of his officers by analysing the lines on their hands. Aristotle stated that: “Lines are not written into the human hand without reason. They emanate from heavenly influences and man’s own individuality.”

When considered in the light of Palmistry a thought provoking passage found in the original Hebrew of The Book of Job, might easily be seen as a clear indication that external knowledge of our inner selves is readily available in the physical blueprint found on our palms.

“God caused signs or seals on the hands of all the sons of men, that the sons of men might know their works.” The book of Job (chapter xxxvii, ver.7)

The origins of Palmistry are lost in the mists’ of antiquity, but it is said to have first come out of India, with the practise spreading through Asia and parts of the Middle East, Greece and finally Europe.

Having survived the active suppression meted out by the Catholic Church throughout the Middle Ages when it was deemed as pagan superstition, modern Palmistry experienced a revival in the middle of the 18th Century. It was at this time in history that Palmistry was once again recognised and elevated to a position of serious standing. The Chirological Society of Britain was founded at this time with the stated aim to advance and systematise the art of Palmistry and prevent charlatans from abusing the art.

Shortly thereafter, the American Chirological Society was also established. One of the most famous and influential figures in the modern palmistry movement was an Irishman by the name of William John Warner. He was otherwise known as ‘Cheiro’ and after studying with Guru’s in India, he set up a practice in London.

He built a wide following of famous clients from all over the world including the likes of Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, Thomas Edison and many others. Mark Twain wrote in ‘Cheiro’s visitor book that he had “… exposed my character to me with humiliating accuracy.”

Palmistry is now classified as a Science. Given the extraordinary history and endurance of this particular branch of divination, it is, I think fitting, to see it rightly returned to the arena of serious practice.

“If you look deeply into the palm of your hand, you will see your parents and all the generations of your ancestors. All of them alive in this moment. Each is present in your body. You are the continuation of each of these people.” ~Thich Nhat Hanh

I hope you have enjoyed this brief look into Palmistry as much as I have enjoyed writing it!

Wishing you all serenity, light and a multitude of Blessings, Cecelia