Kiolvasás

Kiolvasás is a traditional folk fortune-telling practice originating from Eastern Europe, specifically from the Carpathian region. It involves the divination of the future using a series of rituals and interpretations.

The practice typically begins with the selection of a small, delicate branch, usually from a tree such as ash, oak, or willow. The branch is then cut with a knife or rake, and the ending of the branch is either bent or tied with a thread to mark the beginning of the divination. A ritualistic attitude is maintained throughout the practice, with an emphasis on concentration and heightened awareness.

A series of questions are then posed to the practitioner, who seeks to divine answers about the future circumstances and events that may pertain to the individual seeking guidance. The questions are usually related to the life of the inquirer, their family, or directly regarding the future. The practitioner, guided by visualization and intuition, traditionally asserts her/his body leaned over the bent branch and makes associations that serve as a way to guide the person.

In Eastern European traditions, Kiolvasás has played a significant role, especially in mountainous regions, such as Romania, Hungary and Moldova, forming a vital part of folk traditions and taking root in social lives and communal events. Historically, this practice has undergone various influences from the neighboring cultures, local folk practices, and religious ceremonies. However, it remains an evidence of foreshadowing traditional culture, allowing its practitioners to gain insights into apparently external future occurrences.