Exploring the practice of bibliomancy: a theological and cultural review

Idris, Fathiyyatunnur and Mohd. Isa, Siti Nursadrina and W.M. Affandi, Wan Nurul Afiqah Akmal (2026) Exploring the practice of bibliomancy: a theological and cultural review. TAFHIM: IKIM Journal of Islam and the Contemporary World, 19 (2). pp. 1-26. ISSN 2231-7015 E-ISSN 2637-0921

PDF - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (7MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

This article evaluates bibliomancy—the random selection of scriptural passages for divinatory guidance—from an Islamic theological and legal perspective. Utilising a systematic literature review and comparative textual analysis of classical exegesis (tafsīr), jurisprudence (fiqh), and historical codices, the study traces bibliomantic practices across Jewish, Christian, Safavid, Ottoman, and Southeast Asian traditions. The findings demonstrate that while textual divination historically coexisted with esoteric sciences, classical Islamic jurisprudence categorically rejects bibliomancy as a blameworthy innovation (bidʿah) and soothsaying (al-kahānah). Furthermore, the article examines contemporary resurgences in Malaysia, such as the Garpu Tala method, interrogating their structural parallels with historical syncretism and New Age spirituality. Contrasting these speculative methods against official legal edicts (fatāwā), the study highlights how popular “bibliomantic tadabbur” risks reducing divine revelation to an arbitrary diagnostic tool. Ultimately, it advocates for Sunnah-sanctioned decision-making frameworks—principally istikhārah (guidance prayer) and shūrā (consultation)—to safeguard scriptural integrity

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	bibliomancy, divination, Islam, istikhārah, New Age, Safavid Iran, Qur’anic practices, Southeast Asia.
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BM Judaism BPL Islamic education B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BR Christianity
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Centre for Foundation Studies
Depositing User:	Sr. Fathiyyatunnur Idris
Date Deposited:	05 Nov 2026 10:07
Last Update:	05 Nov 2026 10:10
Queue Number:	2026-10-Q6012
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/132473
Indexed In:	Google Scholar, MyCite

Actions (login required)

View Item