Geomancy is a form of divination that involves interpreting markings made on the ground or patterns formed by tossing soil or sand. Practitioners, known as geomancers, create a series of random lines or dots, which are then analyzed to provide insights or answers to specific questions. This practice has roots in various cultures, including African and European traditions. The process typically involves creating a geomantic figure, often called a "shield," which consists of a series of symbols derived from the markings. Each symbol corresponds to specific meanings, allowing the geomancer to interpret the results. Geomancy is sometimes compared to other divination methods, such as tarot or runes.