BodhiSeed
I have to say this is a most interesting oracle. It comes with 200 cards, approximately 2.5 x 3.5 inches. Each card has a photo of a shell on the front; on the back is the name of the shell (both the common name and the Latin name) as well as the divinatory meaning. The set also comes with a book and two fold out sheets that picture all the shells in the set. To use the oracle, you first look at the sheets and pick out shells that you find attractive or are drawn to, as well as shells that you find unattractive or that you have a strong dislike for. The shells are each numbered, so you keep up with the number and whether you like or dislike the shell. You then pull out the cards from the deck that were chosen using the number to identify each (without looking at the backs that have the meanings on them). The cards are arranged by the seeker in a pattern that seems right to him or her. Usually the pattern groups the cards in different sets. The cards in one set are turned over and read together. The meanings of the cards are colored by whether you liked or disliked that card. For instance, a dislike for a card might mean a block or resistance. The meanings of the cards in the set are combined (looked at together). Other sets are read in the same manner. Then all of the sets' meanings are looked at as a whole. This is not an oracle that will be simple to read, but it will definitely be an interesting one. The reading will be something to mull over for several days, looking for deeper insights. The book that accompanies the set does a good job of explaining how she came about using shells, how she arrived at their divinatory meaning, and how to use them as an oracle. The meanings in the book didn't really expand the meanings on the backs of the cards though. I am looking forward to using this deck and becoming more familiar with it!
Many Blessings,
Bodhran
Many Blessings,
Bodhran