I recall at the time we were compiling the 3rd edition, I argued against the term 'Geoglyph' as it's a dictionary word referring to human-made patterns such as the Nazca lines etc. as a form of land art, and its use in a dowsing context is confusing. However, the term was used by Colin Bloy to describe a single convoluted pattern of earth energy. Hamish Miller preferred the term 'pictogram' for these (and so do I). Although the etymology of pictogram can be similarly confusing, at its most basic, it means 'a simple drawing that represents something. Pictograms were used as the earliest form of writing.' (Collins English Dictionary). I feel this definition is loose enough to cover most examples of the patterns that are found.
For reference, the current Glossary definitions are:
During some recent dowsing experimentation, Nigel has come to the opinion that a Pictogram is not just an earth energy phenomenon (which he roughly defines as energies being affected by solar system dynamics and/or other external influences), but also contains some informational content that reacts to the dowser at the time. I have no problem with this idea, although one could argue that any earth energy has informational content and can be manipulated by intention.Geoglyph
A picture, diagram or shape found in the energy field by dowsing. These are formed by a single convoluted line of subtle earth energy (first found by C Bloy and investigated by H Miller who called them pictograms). Some more complicated forms that can be observed are similar to those found in rock art and landscape figures throughout the world and have also been termed ‘archetypal images’ by W. A. Gawn.
See also: Manifestation, Pictogram
Manifestation
A dowsable symmetrical pattern found at a power centre or the crossing (or node) point of two or more significant earth energy lines. Usually produced by conscious interaction with the site. (first mentioned by H Miller).
See also: Geoglyph, Pictogram
Pictogram
A picture, diagram or shape found in the energy field by dowsing. Another term for Geoglyph.
See also: Manifestation
Anyway, it caused me to look over the existing definitions above, and I now think that it's time to expunge 'Geoglyph' as a dowsing term. However, I think it is worth keeping 'manifestation' to refer to the quasi-symmetrical geometric patterns produced by conscious interaction with a node point or power centre that Hamish talked about (see an example in Spirit of the Serpent).
I therefore propose the following modifications to the Glossary:
Thoughts, comments anyone?Geoglyph
A large human-made design or motif on the ground, usually as a form of land art. Examples include the Nazca lines in Peru and the chalk hill figures of southern England. The term was applied by C Bloy to describe pictures or diagrams found in the energy field by dowsing, but this usage is now discouraged in favour of pictogram.
See also: Manifestation, Pictogram
Manifestation
A dowsable quasi-symmetrical, geometric pattern found at a power centre or the crossing (or node) point of two or more significant earth energy lines. Usually produced by conscious interaction with the site (first mentioned by H Miller).
See also: Pictogram
Pictogram
A picture, diagram or shape found in the energy field by dowsing. These are formed by a single convoluted line of subtle energy (first investigated by H Miller), but seem to also have an informational aspect relating to the consciousness of the dowser. Some more complicated forms that can be observed are similar to those found in rock art and landscape figures throughout the world and these have also been termed ‘archetypal images’ by W. A. Gawn.
See also: Manifestation
Related thread: Pictograms linked with water energies?