manzia
Ceromancy
Ceromancy, from the Latin cera "wax" and from manteia "divination", is the divinatory practice that interprets the wax melted into water or melting along a candle. It is a variant of velomancy (observation of burning candles) and has traditions in many popular European cultures.
Technique
You light a candle (or heat wax in a spoon) and let melted wax drip into a basin of cold water. The wax solidifies forming random figures. The shapes are interpreted as symbols (heart, cross, animal, object). Austrian, Polish and Germanic popular tradition practices it as Bleigiessen (with lead, today wax for safety reasons) on New Year s Eve.
Meaning
The shapes are read as omens for the year or for the theme of the question. Interpretations vary: heart (love), ship (journey), crown (recognition), snake (caution), bird (news). The practice has both divinatory and social function: it is often performed in a group as a ritual game.
FAQ
Difference from velomancy?
Velomancy observes the burning candle (flame, wax dripping from the candle). Ceromancy observes the molten wax poured into water. They are related practices.
Is it safe?
With moderate melted wax and a heat-resistant basin, yes. Avoid lead (used historically as Bleigiessen): it is toxic and today forbidden in many countries.
When is it practiced?
In European tradition it is typical of New Year s Eve and Saint Sylvester s Night as a game of omens for the new year.