The Pendulum
When you use a pendulum, you're doing a form of dowsing. Most people think of dowsing as a way of searching for water that's hidden underground, but that's only one method. When you use a pendulum for the purpose of divination, you're searching for answers hidden within yourself.
A pendulum usually consists of a small weight — a crystal or some other stone, for instance — hung from a short chain. You hold the chain, letting the pendulum dangle at the end of it, while you ask a simple question. The pendulum responds by swinging in a direction predetermined to mean either yes or no.
Consulting a Pendulum
A pendulum isn't capable of handling complex questions, but it can be used to answer virtually any yes-or-no question. Most of the time, a pendulum will swing from side to side to let you know that the answer to your question is no. A backward-and-forward movement generally means the answer is yes. However, it's a good idea to ask your pendulum aloud which direction will indicate yes and which will indicate no.
Try not to influence the pendulum's movement — allow it to swing of its own accord. Rest your elbow on a table or other surface, and either grasp the chain between your thumb and index finger or drape the chain over your fingers. Don't get impatient — it may take a few moments for the pendulum to respond.
Sometimes the pendulum swings in a diagonal line. This can mean the matter is uncertain or that your question can't be answered at this time. You might want to try asking again at a later date. If the pendulum doesn't move, try asking a different question or phrase the question in a different manner. If your pendulum circles in a clockwise direction, it usually means the situation you're asking about is favorable. If the pendulum moves in a counter-clockwise circle, conditions seem unfavorable.
Other Magickal Ways to Use a Pendulum
You can use a pendulum to dowse for just about anything, from buried treasure to the best spot to drill a well. You can dowse an area to find a lost object. You can dowse a house or apartment to see if it's right for you. Or dowse the land to determine the best place to build a home, business, shrine, garden, etc.
You can even dowse a map. This technique is great if you're thinking about taking a trip or looking for a new place to live. Hold the pendulum over a map of an area that interests you and ask, “Is this the place?” If the response is no, try another area. Keep at it until the pendulum says yes.
