Smoke scrying is watching the patterns that develop as smoke rises either from candles - outdoor campfire - or smoke. Sometimes the smoke is deliberately created to watch the images, but other times it is not. Take for example, this image taken on 9/11 and interpreted by some was the trickster causing the events and leaving his signature. As with all scrying it is subjective and subject to the interpretation of the viewer.

As you watch the smoke it will create patterns much like clouds in the sky or ectoplasm in spirit photography.

Some images are easy to figure discern - while others need more interpretation.

Smoke scrying is more positively used as a means of divination by shaman to receive messages from the spirit world. Native Americans practice a special type of smoke scrying during a sweat lodge. Water is poured over hot rocks in a tent to create steam. The steam is inhaled by those who sit naked around the rocks. The combination of temperature, humidity and elevated levels of carbon dioxide produce a state in which visions can arise. This form of scrying may be dangerous and should only be undertaken by experienced people.

Smoke scrying for fun can be done wile seated around a camp fire as messages fill the air. Note that the patterns of the smoke change as the smoke rises into the air.