When Does Santiago Use Urim and Thummim?

He gives Santiago a white stone and a black stone named Urim and Thummim. Melchizedek tells Santiago that the stones will help him read the omens on his journey. Santiago must only use the stones when he cannot read the omens himself.

How did Santiago Use Urim and Thummim?

Santiago carries the stones with him throughout the novel, but never uses them, having promised to “make his own decisions.” The constant presence of Urim and Thummim thus also represents the human desire to give up control and decision-making ability.

Where does Santiago get Urim and Thummim?

Jonathan Beutlich, M.A. The Urim and Thummim appear quite early in the book. They are a pair of stones that are given to Santiago by the king Melchizedek. The stones themselves are not large, and Santiago often takes them in and out of a pouch or a pocket.