Cleromancy

Does communication with God exist? Paulo Coelho, the author of The Alchemist certainly believes so. His deep novel packed with lesson brings the reader through a journey with the main character, Santiago. Through him, Coelho can demonstrate how God is communicating in various ways. Dreams are one of the first things mentioned in the novel, and is one of the ways that Coelho believes God communicates. Omens and signs, as well as dreams, are a powerful signal portrayed as messages from God in the novel. The concept of a universal language is continuously mentioned in the novel, it can be interpreted as the way God is directly able to communicate. With the character of Melchizedek, who takes many forms, Coelho shows that God can take a human form to communicate and support people in a personal way. Throughout his novel, Coelho incorporates the idea of a universal language and universe conspiracies. Together, they demonstrate Coelhos belief that God is communicating with humans, and helping them realize their personal legend. As Santiago first meets the candy seller in the novel, he helps him set up the shop and prepare candies. Before Santiago leaves, the candy seller hands him a piece of candy. It's only as Santiago thanks the merchant and is walking away that he realizes that he was not speaking the same language as the merchant, “There must be a language that doesn't depend on words, the boy thought” (46). Coelho uses Santiago's realization as a way to incorporate his…