Social Functions of Bibliomancy Based on Hafez’s Poems

Bibliomancy from Poems of Hafez as a unique social behavior in Iranian folklore has been publicized in different times and places demonstrating the need of man for knowing his uncertain future. Recourse to Hafez’s poems as a cultural source has played an important role in purification of man’s soul in both his individual and social life. In fact, trusting in Hafez is a cultural trait that has roots in centuries of materialistic and spiritual lives of Iranians and helps them to overcome their psychological and mental stresses. The functions of bibliomancy from Hafez’s poems include: invoking tranquility, improving personal and social mentality, reducing mental distress, and foretelling the future. The research here uses a descriptive-analytical method derived from Wilhelm Dilthey and Max Weber’s hermeneutics. Data collected from documents revealed that bibliomancy from Hafez’s poems as an example of cultural, and social function plays an effective role in humans’ interaction and provides them with a better mental health.