Divination on coffee grounds: history, tradition and meaning

Divination on coffee grounds, or tasseography, is an ancient and mystical art that has been used for centuries to reveal the future and gain insight into a person's destiny. The practice has its roots in cultures ranging from the Middle East and the Balkans to Europe and North America. Taseography is particularly popular among people who believe in the meaning of symbols and the power of intuition.

How did fortune-telling on coffee grounds originate?

The history of foraging on coffee grounds dates back to the Middle East, where coffee became an important part of everyday life. In ancient times, people noticed that the coffee grounds formed different patterns and shapes in the cup after drinking, and a tradition gradually developed of trying to interpret these symbols.

It is believed that tasseography originated around the 17th century in the Ottoman Empire, when coffee drinking became a popular social habit. Turkish coffee, brewed in a special tin and served in small cups, is ideal for this practice, as its grounds settle to the bottom of the container, creating unique images. From the Ottoman Empire, the tradition spread to the Balkans, Greece and later Europe.

Who uses divination on coffee grounds?

Today, fortune-telling on coffee grounds is used in many parts of the world by both professional fortune-tellers and enthusiasts who simply want to have fun or gain insight into their future. It remains particularly popular in Turkey, Greece, Serbia, Bosnia and other countries in the Balkan region where the practice is part of their cultural heritage.

In Latvia and other parts of Europe, people often turn to tasseography as a creative and intuitive way to explore themselves and the world around them. Often, coffee fortune-telling is also used as a social activity where friends and family members share their observations and interpretations.

How to do divination?

Make coffee. Fortune-telling requires high-quality, finely ground coffee, such as, espresso without filtration. It must be prepared and allowed to settle.
Drink coffee with intention. As you drink your coffee, think about the question you want answered. When there are only grounds left, leave them in the cup.
Tip the jug onto the saucer. Holding the cup with your left hand, turn it on its saucer and leave it for a few minutes to allow the thicknesses to flow and form patterns.
Reading and interpretation. When the jug has cooled, carefully lift it and start to interpret the images formed by the thicknesses.

The meaning of symbols in divination

Human figures - important people in your life or an upcoming event.
Heart - love and emotions.
Bird - good news or tidings.
Pisces - good luck and prosperity.
Snake - possible threat or trickery.
Road or trail - change or new journeys.
Mountain - challenges or obstacles.
Star - hope and inspiration.

The role of Tasseography today

Although many people are sceptical about fortune-telling, tasseography is popular as a creative and introspective method. It can help people to better understand their emotions, intuition and subconscious. Some believe that divination is a symbolic process that helps the mind to organise thoughts and make decisions based on inner feelings.

Divination on coffee grounds is an ancient practice that continues to attract people around the world. Whether taken seriously or as a pastime, this technique can provide interesting revelations and a deeper connection with one's intuition. If you've never tried it, maybe it's time to find out what coffee grounds are telling you!