Sikidy[a] is a form of algebraic geomancy practiced by Malagasy peoples in Madagascar. It involves algorithmic operations performed on random data generated from tree seeds, which are ritually arranged in a tableau called a toetry and divinely interpreted after being mathematically operated on. Columns of seeds, designated "slaves" or "princes" belonging to respective "lands" for each, interact symbolically to express vintana ('fate') in the interpretation of the diviner. The diviner also prescribes solutions to problems and ways to avoid fated misfortune, often involving a sacrifice.
The centuries-old practice derives from Islamic influence brought to the island by pre-colonial Arab traders. The sikidy is consulted for a range of divinatory questions pertaining to fate and the future, including identifying sources of and rectifying misfortune, reading the fate of newborns, and planning annual migrations. The mathematics of sikidy include the concepts of Boolean algebra, symbolic logic and parity.
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Sikidy is a form of algebraic geomancy practiced by Malagasy peoples in Madagascar. It involves algorithmic operations performed on random data generated...
Renaissance Europe. In other regions and cultures, geomancy practices include Sikidy and Ifá (found in Africa), I Ching and Feng shui (found in China), Kumalak...
by burning straw with an iron (Greek sidēros, iron + manteía, prophecy) sikidy: by drawing sixteen lines in sand (perhaps a Malagasy transliteration of...
circumcision, the wedding custom of vodiondry and the art of Malagasy astrology (sikidy) are likewise associated with this king. Andriamanelo was the oldest son...
Soothsayers or Astrologers, clairvoyants, Geomantics (people who practice Sikidy Geomancy drawing lines in the sand and interpreting them to tell the future)...
common profession Sikidy is a system of mathematical divination used by the ombiasa (diviner) within the Sakalava peoples. Sikidy uses acacia seeds....
Divinatory Device." BULLETIN CENTER ARCH. V.5, P. 42. Marcia Ascher, Malagasy Sikidy: A Case in Ethnomathematics, New York: Academic Press, 1997. Greer, John...
prisoner back to their village across the desert. The witch doctor, using sikidy, prophesizes a series of future events, including Makibefo's role as the...
the Fandroana took place here, and ombiasy (astrologers) asked to perform sikidy (divination) for a sovereign would do so within this space. The building...
1822 and was imprisoned, although he was given some freedom. He worked the sikidy for his fellow prisoners. The British administrators had plans to further...
funerals, and tromba and bilo spirit possession ceremonies. Some also practice sikidy and other forms of divination, and provide spiritual advice on the best...
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