Weighing the Pros & Cons of Pendulums

When going to a tarot reader, having prepared the perfect questions to get the most out of your reading can be challenging. I recognize that many of the questions that people have seek simple yes or no answers. Whenever I have a new client, I explain how tarot provides more to questions than yes and no. While the cards will answer yes/no inquiry, you will usually receive additional information with the answers. In situations such as these, it might be more efficient for you to save your money and try to do a quick reading on yourself. If you are looking into having a strictly yes/no response, then using a pendulum might be more effective for you.

What is a Pendulum?

Pendulums are a form of divination tool that are used for guidance, inner growth, and spiritual healing. These divination tools are made out of a small weighted object that is generally hanging from a string, wire, or chain. The weighted objects come in different forms such as various crystals or shaped metal. Some people even create their pendulums out of jewelry, such as their rings. When using a pendulum, you may want to have a chart that has answers so that you can clearly see which direction means what.

Advantages of Pendulums:

• Make your own!

  • Because of the simplicity of the pendulum, you can create your own out of almost anything. While certain crystals or metals will help channel energy, they are not necessary for an accurate reading. The key to a good pendulum is less about the material being used and more about the intention behind it.

• Quick answers

  • If you are in a pinch, this is the best divination tool to use for quick answers. Perhaps you are torn on a decision or need advice from the universe now, this is the divination tool you will want to utilize.

• Easy to use

  • Anyone can use a pendulum! You do not need to be a psychic, hear, or see spirits to use this tool. All you need is the pendulum and a chart to help you understand the answer from spirit. Make sure you have a steady hand when you are using this tool! As this is only effective when you are stable and channel the energy from the universe.

• Simple to transport

  • Regardless of having a manufactured or self made, pendulums are small in size and easy to carry with you. I keep my pendulums in a bag with a small chart for readings on me at all times because they are so simple to transport!

Disadvantages of Pendulums:

• Second Guessing

  • When using a pendulum, it is very important that you are in a stationary location. If you are in a car or have shaky hands, you might end up with an inaccurate reading. It is important that you are able to channel your energy and the energy of the universe when asking your questions.

• Unclear Answers

  • When first learning how to use a pendulum, you will face the challenge of understanding your answers. As previously mentioned, a chart will help alleviate some of this confusion because you can follow the motion of the pendulum using your chart.

• Limited Response

  • If you are looking for a yes/no response, this is the best divination tool. If you are seeking more information, you will need to ask more questions or create questions that indicate a this or that response. Using detailed questions will help you get the most out of your readings.

Should you use a pendulum?

If you are unfamiliar with divination tools but want to learn, this is the best place to start! I highly recommend working with pendulums to become familiar with channeling and understanding your energy. Once you’ve become familiar with using a pendulum for yes/no or this/that questions, you can expand your knowledge to using it for charka cleansing and many other ways!

Share your experiences, your own tips and tricks, or any other thoughts you might have in the comments below or on our instagram page @thehopefultarot