In this class, contemporary cunning-man and historian of magic Dr Alexander Cummins will lead us in an exploration and celebration of the interrelations of gaming, gambling, and divination across the history of sorcery as particularly pertain to dice and their unique magics and meanings.

We will begin our investigation of these dice magics with close inspection of the archaeological records of Greco-Egyptian polyhedral dice, as well as the uses of the knucklebone astragals of antiquity. We will also consider the occult philosophy of Platonic solids and their elementalist understanding of polyhedral shapes and their mysteries.

Analyses of a range of dice-based Books of Fate will intersect with deepening our understanding of the practices of bibliomancy, as attested in various historical traditions employing dice to determine which chapter and verse of a sacred text one would consult for specific advice on a matter at hand; framing the Bible, as well as the Odessey and various other classic works of literature, as tomes of practical and specific wisdom to be applied to our lives and concerns.

We will pay close attention to one early modern manual of dice divination, The Dodecahedron of Fortune, printed in London in 1613, which is based (as its name suggests) upon using a twelve-sided die – which the reader could actually cut out of its pages to glue into a three-dimensional die! - to consult the oracle. We will also examine traditional systems of dice divination as laid out in various pamphlets and manuals of the Iberian folk magics associated with the infamous sorcerer saint Cyprian of Antioch.

We will furthermore explore and analyse the spellcrafts and ‘supernatural secrets’ associated with profitable dicing from a range of early modern spellbooks, occult treatises, and receipt-collections: from textual amulets to bind to one’s body while gambling, to spirits to summon and petition to ensure victory in our games of chance.

We will especially consider the popularity of magic rings constructed and consecrated by the timed influences of the Moon and her Lunar Mansions throughout the pre-modern books of magic employed both by village folk magicians and the aristocratic magi of the royal courts.

Particular attentions will also be paid to the numerous magical charms and operations for gaming and gambling that cite christological historiolaeor ritual precedents concerning the Roman soldiers who ‘played lots’ for Christ’s possessions at his crucifixion; presenting us with insights and opportunities for reflection upon the wider, broader, and deeper influences of the mythologies of dice throughout Western culture.

This class is for anyone interested in the more magical sides of the history of dice: from seasoned magicians and witches who use dice in their spiritwork and sorcery, to RPG gamers looking for new inspirations for their tabletop campaigns, and especially all those looking to break a streak of bad luck or cleanse the misfortunes from their low-rolling little math-rocks.

About the Presenter:

Dr. Alexander Cummins (@grimoiresontape) is a  professional diviner, consultant sorcerer, &  historian of magic.  His work focuses on grimoires, divination, & folk necromancy. He co-hosts Radio Free Golgotha, & can be booked for talks, workshops, readings, coaching & consultation at www.alexandercummins.com/. His recorded classes can also be obtained from The Cauldron Black archives.

THIS CLASS IS ONLINE ONLY! The class link will be emailed to you in your registration confirmation. The class recording link will be emailed to you within 3-5 business days of the conclusion of the class and will be available to you for 30 days after the conclusion of the class.

By purchasing this ritual you agree to the following Non Disclosure:

This Agreement is between The Cauldron Black (“OWNER”); and the Purchaser (“RECIPIENT”). WHEREAS, OWNER has developed through substantial effort, research, time, and expense certain inventions, design concepts, methodologies, technical know-how, copyrightable material and trade secrets directed and related to this class.  (“INFORMATION”); WHEREAS, OWNER desires to disclose the INFORMATION on a confidential basis to RECIPIENT.  The OWNER wishes to maintain the confidentiality of the INFORMATION and the protection of OWNER'S intellectual property rights. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the  mutual promises, covenants, and conditions contained herein, the sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:  I. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION A. OWNER agrees to disclose  INFORMATION to RECIPIENT for the purposes of an online class.  B. RECIPIENT agrees to receive such INFORMATION and to refrain from  copying, disclosing, using, selling, or offering for sale any and all of said INFORMATION. RECIPIENT agrees to keep confidential and refrain from disclosing any and all of the INFORMATION, and to take all necessary and reasonable steps to prevent unauthorized disclosure or  use  of any and all of the INFORMATION.  Failure to uphold this NDA may result in legal action.