Tabula Mortem; A Modern Spirit Board - rune symbolism instead of the alphabet
Most spirit boards use letters and numbers. Tabula Mortem does not. Instead of the alphabet you find rune symbols and natural elements. The planchette can be used in two ways: sliding across the board or hanging as a pendulum.
The board is designed by Judas Knight and published by U.S. Games Systems. Everything revolves around symbols that work more directly on your intuition than words. The 84-page guidebook describes the background of the symbols and gives instructions for use and closure.
What you see on the board
No A-Z, no 0-9. What you do see are runes, yes/no positions and symbols for earth, air, water and fire. The board is dark in tone with engraved symbols. The planchette is shaped so you can hang it from a cord or let it glide across the board.
The symbols are archaic. They do not ask you to spell words, but to follow images and associations. That makes a session more abstract than with a classic board.
How you work with it
The guidebook explains how to open and close a session. That is not superfluous. Spirit boards require focus and clear intention. The text describes what each symbol represents and how to use the planchette as a pendulum for yes/no questions before moving to the runes.
The board is suitable for those who already have experience with divination or ritual work. Beginners can work with it if they take the guidebook seriously.
Use the planchette first as a pendulum above the centre of the board to centre your question. Then let it glide towards the symbols that present themselves.
About Judas Knight
Judas Knight designs spiritual tools that combine ancient symbolism with contemporary form. With Tabula Mortem the emphasis is on function and meaning, not on decoration.
Specifications
- Designer: Judas Knight
- Publisher: U.S. Games Systems
- Language: English
- Contents: board with rune symbolism and elemental forces, planchette with dual function (slider and pendulum), 84-page guidebook
- Material: solid board with engraved symbols
- Theme: runes, elements, spiritual communication
Questions we often get
What is the difference between this board and a classic ouija board?
Classic boards use the alphabet to spell words. Tabula Mortem works with runes and elements, which requires a more symbolic and intuitive approach. You do not spell names, you follow images.
Can I really use the planchette as a pendulum?
Yes. The design allows you to hang the planchette from a cord. The guidebook describes how to use this for yes/no questions or to centre your question before moving to the runes.