My series on the Arabic meanings of the Geomantic figures continues with Tristitia and Laetitia.
In my book Stars and Stones, I listed the Medieval Arabic names but didn’t explain their meanings. I was more focused on highlighting the work of Christopher Cattan, a Medieval geomancer who was more interested in astrological and elemental attributions. As I pointed out here, Cattan, like many other European geomancers, might have been hamstrung by literal translations from the original Arabic. Sometimes, the Arabic words might differ depending on the manuscript.
Tristitia ( لة) Al-Dhilla.
In Western Geomancy, Tristitia means loss or sorrow and reflects Laetitia or Joy. The Arabic meaning is slightly different, with a literal sense of shade, shadow, or shelter. In everyday speech, al-Ḍhilla would refer to a shaded area that protects from the sun, such as the shade of a tree or a tent. It could also refer to shelter or protection in a broader sense.
In Sufi and philosophical texts, al-Ḍhilla might symbolise divine shade or protection, as in the well-known Islamic concept that righteous people will be under God’s shade (ẓill Allāh) on the Day of Judgment.
It could also represent a spiritual veil or reflection, as in certain esoteric writings where “shadows” symbolize reflections of higher realities.
In political and administrative language, al-Ḍhilla could be used metaphorically for protection under a ruler’s authority—for example, being “under the shadow of the caliph” could mean benefiting from his rule and protection.
In Arabic poetry, al-Ḍhilla symbolises transience and impermanence, much like shadows that shift and disappear. It might also evoke longing and nostalgia, as poets often describe seeking shade during journeys in the desert.
In medieval Arabic astronomy and optics, al-Ḍhilla could refer to shadows in studies of light, eclipses, and celestial movements.
It could mean a business facing unexpected losses after a period of success or a deal falling apart at the last moment.
If a business or trade is thriving and suddenly declines, one might say it has “ʿankasa” (been reversed).
It could also refer to a business constantly shifting direction unpredictably, which might confuse customers or investors.
In medieval Arabic medicine, the word al-Ḍhilla (الظِّلَّة) , meaning “shade” or “shadow,” could have several important meanings related to health and treatment. Here are some key interpretations. Physicians like Ibn Sīnā (Avicenna) and al-Rāzī (Rhazes) emphasised the importance of staying in the shade (al-Ḍhilla) to prevent overheating, dehydration, and fevers, particularly in hot climates. Patients suffering from hot and dry diseases (according to humoral theory ) were often advised to stay in the shade to avoid excess heat, which could worsen their condition. Some medieval physicians used the colour and clarity of a patient’s shadow as a rough diagnostic tool, particularly for detecting jaundice (if the shadow appeared yellowish) or blood disorders (if it appeared pale or dark). Certain medical texts referenced examining how a person’s veins and arteries appeared in the shade to better understand circulation and blood quality.
In humoral medicine, the “shadow” could be metaphorically linked to melancholy (saudā’) , which was associated with an excess of black bile. Prolonged staying in the shade or darkness was sometimes seen as a sign of melancholic temperament or depression. Some healing practices involved resting in the gentle morning or evening shade , which was believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
Medicinal herbs were dried or stored in the shade, rather than in direct sunlight, to preserve their cooling and moistening properties. Physicians sometimes advised that medicines made in the shade had different effects from those exposed to sunlight due to changes in their humoral qualities.
In romance and relationships al-Ḍhilla could represent love as a refuge, devotion, longing, secrecy, or uncertainty. I tcould express the idea of being “in someone’s shadow” could express devotion and complete submission in love. A person deeply in love might metaphorically say they “never leave the shadow of their beloved,” meaning they are always near them, longing for their presence. Classical Arabic poetry, especially in pre-Islamic and Abbasid love poetry, frequently used shade and solar imagery to contrast love’s comfort and the pain of loss.
Negatively being in someone’s shadow could imply uncertainty or deception. A lover who is “always in the shade” might symbolise a love that is unclear, elusive, or built on illusions. In some poetic traditions, a false lover or unfaithful partner might be compared to a shadow that disappears when the sun moves, symbolising fickle or untrustworthy love.
In a geomancy reading
In a geomancy reading Al-Ḍhilla carries both positive and negative meanings, often linked to protection, secrecy, stability, or hidden obstacles.
Business (Commerce and Trade)
If al-Ḍhilla appears in a business-related reading, it can have both positive and negative implications. On the positive side, it may symbolize protection and stability, suggesting that the business is sheltered from harm and operating under the patronage of an influential figure or within a secure market. It can indicate financial security, steady profits, or a reliable source of income.
However, Tristitia can also imply secrecy, deception, or hidden obstacles. It may serve as a warning that dishonest dealings, undisclosed risks, or covert competition could threaten financial success. A merchant or trader may find that things are not as transparent as they seem, requiring extra caution.
Advice: It is essential to proceed carefully, ensuring that all contracts and financial dealings are clear and transparent. Investigating potential risks and avoiding placing too much trust in unseen forces may also be wise.
Health and Well-Being
In matters of health, al-Ḍhilla can have a dual interpretation. Tristitia represents rest, recovery, and protection from harm. This may suggest that the person needs to step back from stress, avoid overexertion, and focus on self-care. For someone experiencing illness, this sign may indicate that rest and seclusion will aid in the healing process.
But Tristitia can also symbolise hidden illnesses or undiagnosed conditions. There may be an ailment lurking beneath the surface that has not yet been fully understood. It can also point to weakness, fatigue, or an unclear prognosis, warning that further medical consultation is necessary.
Advice: To maintain good health, it is crucial to avoid stress, rest when necessary, and seek medical wisdom if symptoms remain unclear. The presence of shade suggests that more information may be needed before a full recovery is possible.
Love and Relationships
When al-Ḍhilla appears in a reading about love and relationships, it can indicate comfort and uncertainty. In a positive light, Tristitia may represent a secure and protective relationship where one partner provides emotional shelter and stability for the other. This could mean that the bond between two people offers a place of refuge and peace amid life’s difficulties.
However, the presence of a shadow can also suggest secrecy, deception, or emotional distance. It may indicate that one partner hides their true feelings or that unspoken issues affect the relationship. It could sometimes imply that external forces, such as family interference or hidden rivals, influence a romantic connection.
Advice: Open and honest communication is essential in relationships. If there is any sense of mystery, uncertainty, or emotional withdrawal, it may be necessary to address these concerns before they create deeper problems.
Study and Knowledge
In a reading about learning, wisdom, and scholarship, al-Ḍhilla can indicate both guidance and uncertainty. Tristitia may suggest that the seeker is learning under the protection of a wise teacher, benefiting from mentorship and structured knowledge. The shade can also represent deep, hidden wisdom—suggesting that knowledge lies beneath the surface and must be uncovered through patience and effort.
However, the shadow may symbolise confusion, misleading information, or a lack of clarity in academic pursuits. If the oracle appears during a study, it may indicate that the seeker is following false teachings, struggling to grasp key concepts, or facing distractions that prevent them from fully understanding their subject.
Advice: The best course of action is to seek knowledge from trustworthy sources, avoid being misled by half-truths, and dedicate oneself to careful study and contemplation.
Work and Career
In career and professional life questions, al-Ḍhilla may indicate job security and stability, suggesting that the individual works in a position that provides a sense of safety and continuity. Tristitia may also suggest that the individual is operating under the guidance of a strong leader, benefiting from the wisdom and experience of others.
On the negative side, shade may indicate stagnation, a lack of recognition, or being overshadowed by others in the workplace. It could suggest that the individual is not receiving due credit for their efforts or that their contributions are being hidden or overlooked.
Advice: To advance professionally, one must seek opportunities to stand out, ensure fairness in one’s work environment, and avoid being undervalued.
Magic and Spells
Magically al-Ḍhilla is a profoundly symbolic sign may represent protection from harmful forces, suggesting that a person is shielded by divine or supernatural energies. This could signify that a protective spell, amulet, or spiritual practice works effectively.
However, shadows also carry a sense of mystery and the unknown. They may point to hidden magical influences, spiritual deception, or an unseen force affecting one’s life. This could suggest that someone is secretly casting spells, either for protection or harm. In darker interpretations, al-Ḍhilla could indicate the presence of unseen spirits, illusions, or deceptive magical workings.
Advice: If seeking magical guidance, it is crucial to ensure that spells, rituals, or spiritual practices are rooted in truth and integrity. If there is suspicion of negative influences, cleansing and protective rituals may be necessary.
Final Interpretation
Overall, al-Ḍhilla represents protection and uncertainty. It is a sign that one is either sheltered and secure or being in the dark about something important. The precise meaning depends on the situation, but this oracle encourages caution, deeper reflection, and a search for truth.
Laetitia Al-Bashāʾir “good tidings” or al-Surūr (السرور)*
In Western Geomancy, Laetitia means Joy, and the Arabic name for the figure is close to this meaning. In a medieval Arabic context, the term al-Bashāʾir (البشائر) would be understood as “good tidings,” “glad news,” or “auspicious omens.” The word comes from the root b-sh-r (ب-ش-ر), which is associated with happiness, good news, and favourable signs. However, another word has been associated with this figure in different geomantic texts and it could have been the one which was translated into Latin. That word was al-Surūr (السرور): This term generally means joy or happiness. It is often associated with positive emotions and experiences, such as celebrations, feasting, and hospitality. In medieval Arabic culture, al-Surūr was a significant aspect of social life, reflecting the pleasures and joys of various festivities and gatherings.
al-Bashāʾir (البشائر): This term translates to good news or glad tidings. It is often used to refer to the announcement of positive events or news that brings happiness and relief. In a broader sense, al-Bashāʾir can also imply the arrival of something auspicious or fortunate.
While al-Surūr focuses on the state of joy and happiness itself, al-Bashāʾir emphasizes the announcement or arrival of good news that leads to such joy and happiness. Both terms are related to positive emotions but are used in different contexts and as we will see they end up being the same in readings.
Al-Bashāʾir could refer to divine blessings, prophetic glad tidings, or signs of divine favour. In Islamic theology, the term is often associated with good news given to believers, such as promises of paradise or rewards for piety.
It may be linked to prophetic traditions (ḥadīth) where the Prophet Muhammad gave good news (bashāʾir) to his companions about future events or the rewards of faith.
In divinatory or astrological traditions, al-Bashāʾir might refer to positive omens, signs of success, or favourable planetary alignments. In geomancy (ʿilm al-raml) or dream interpretation (taʿbīr al-ruʾyā), it could indicate a reading or vision that foretells prosperity, victory, or personal happiness.
In traditional Arabic medicine, hearing or receiving al-Bashāʾir could be associated with signs of recovery from illness or positive changes in the patient’s condition. Physicians and healers may have considered a patient’s mood and optimism (which could come from good news) an essential psychological and physical well-being factor. Physicians like Ibn Sīnā emphasised the connection between emotions and health, so a depressed or melancholic (mīzāj sawdāwī) patient showing signs of happiness and energy could be considered an instance of al-Bashāʾir.
In medieval Islamic courts, al-Bashāʾir might refer to official proclamations of victory, royal decrees announcing rewards, or news of a prosperous reign. Rulers and viziers often relied on messengers who brought bashāʾir of military success, economic prosperity, or political stability.
In romance and personal relationships, al-Bashāʾir would symbolise happy news about a romantic relationship, the promise of marriage, or the reunion of lovers. Arab poets might use the term metaphorically to describe the joy of hearing from a beloved after a long absence – so you can see how the word was translated as Joy in European geomancy.
In a Geomancy reading
The word Laetitia would have different meanings depending on the context in which it appears in an oracle. If Laetitia appears in a reading about business and trade, it suggests a prosperous venture, an upcoming financial gain, or a positive change in market conditions. It may indicate that an investment will soon bring rewards or that a new partnership will lead to success. In negotiations, it could be a sign that favourable agreements or contracts will be secured.
Advice: If you are considering a new business venture, investment, or expansion, now is an auspicious time to move forward. Positive developments are on the horizon, and your efforts will likely bear fruit. However, while fortune favours you, ensure your decisions are based on careful planning rather than blind optimism. Be open to partnerships, as collaboration may bring unexpected success.
In a reading about health and well-being, Laetitia is a strong indicator of recovery from illness, effective treatment, and physical or mental rejuvenation. It could signify a successful medical intervention, the effectiveness of a herbal remedy, or the body’s natural healing process. On a spiritual level, Laetitia may suggest divine blessings and healing energy working in favour of the person.
Advice: If you have been facing health challenges, remain hopeful as recovery and healing are indicated. Trust in effective treatments, natural remedies, or medical interventions, as they are likely to be successful. Focus on strengthening your body and mind through proper care, rest, and balanced nutrition. If you have been worried about a diagnosis, seek a second opinion, as good news regarding your condition may soon come.
In a magical or mystical context, the word might symbolise a successful outcome from spellwork, divine favour, or a blessing received through spiritual practices. It could indicate that a talisman or ritual works, particularly if the magic is intended for protection, prosperity, or love. If it appears in a geomantic reading, it may correspond with favourable planetary alignments or omens that encourage proceeding with magical work.
Advice: If you are engaged in spiritual or magical practices, your work aligns with divine favour. Rituals for protection, prosperity, and love will likely be effective now. Consider using talismans or prayers that invoke blessings, as the universe is receptive to your intentions. However, be wary of false promises in spiritual matters, and ensure that your practice is rooted in sincerity rather than mere wishful thinking.
When it appears in a reading about relationships and love, the word is a highly favourable sign, indicating a joyful romance, reconciliation, or an unexpected happy turn in a relationship. If someone is seeking love, it could mean the arrival of a new partner or a long-awaited commitment. For those already in relationships, it might signify renewed passion, harmony, or the resolution of past conflicts.
Advice: If you seek love, open your heart, as an essential relationship may soon enter your life. For those already in a partnership, expect a period of harmony, renewal, or reconciliation if there have been recent struggles. Express gratitude for your relationship, and take the time to nurture it. If an unexpected opportunity arises in love, trust your instincts, but do not rush—true joy comes with patience and understanding.
A reading about personal finances may point to a fortunate financial opportunity, an inheritance, or an increase in wealth through unexpected means. It could signify debt relief, a successful business deal, or the discovery of new income sources. It may also suggest that patience and hope are necessary, as fortune is coming.
Advice: Financial improvement is likely on the way, whether through a salary increase, successful investments, or an unexpected opportunity. While fortune is in your favor, avoid reckless spending or overconfidence. Use this time to secure long-term financial stability rather than indulging in short-term gains. If a financial opportunity presents itself, conduct due diligence before committing.
If the figure appears in a political reading, it might indicate a shift in power that brings justice, the rise of a wise leader, or the success of a reform movement. It can suggest an upcoming victory, favourable negotiations, or a significant event that changes the course of governance. If negative elements are present in the reading, it might imply false promises or an illusion of good news, urging caution in political dealings.
Advice: If you are involved in leadership, decision-making, or activism, this is a moment when positive change is possible. However, be mindful of false hope—while good tidings may be announced, ensure that actions align with promises. If you are waiting for political or social improvements, maintain patience, as shifts in power or governance may soon work in your favour. However, stay vigilant and strive for justice rather than relying solely on fate.
In general
In oracular interpretations, the Laetitia is almost always a positive and auspicious omen, signifying hope, success, blessings, and good fortune. However, like all divinatory symbols, its interpretation depends on surrounding signs. In some cases, it may also be a caution against false optimism, reminding the querent to ensure that the “good tidings” are based on truth rather than illusion.
- layḥān ليحان is sometimes give for this figure. However, I have not been able to find that word anywhere. It does not appear to mean anything and might be a copy error that has been repeated as the root words do not mean either joy, or the more strange meaning of “bearded” which are commonly quoted.
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