Question
Pr 18:18—Why were lots used in Bible times?
The casting of lots is an ancient custom for deciding a question at issue. The method used was to cast pebbles or small bits or tablets of wood or of stone into the gathered folds of a garment, “the lap,” or into a vase, and then to shake them. The one whose lot fell out or was drawn out was the one chosen. The lot, like the oath, implied a prayer with it. Prayer was either expressed or implied, and Jehovah’s intervention was sought and anticipated. Lot (Heb., goh·ralʹ) is used literally and figuratively with the thought of “share” or “portion.”—Jos 15:1; Ps 16:5; 125:3; Isa 57:6; Jer 13:25.
Uses. Proverbs 16:33 says: “Into the lap the lot is cast down, but every decision by it is from Jehovah.” In Israel the proper use of a lot was to end a controversy: “The lot puts even contentions to rest, and it separates even the mighty from one another.” (Pr 18:18) It was not used for sport, play, or gambling. There were no bets, wagers, or stakes—no losses or winnings. It was not done to enrich the temple or the priests, nor was it done for charity. Contrariwise, the Roman soldiers did have selfish gain in mind when, as foretold at Psalm 22:18, they cast lots for Jesus’ garments.—Mt 27:35.
Answer the question in a very short sentence. Make sure it’s understandable, simple and causal. Answer like a Jehovah’s Witness and use the JW bible
The casting of lots is an ancient custom for deciding a question at issue. The method used was to cast pebbles or small bits or tablets of wood or of stone into the gathered folds of a garment, “the lap,” or into a vase, and then to shake them. The one whose lot fell out or was drawn out was the one chosen. The lot, like the oath, implied a prayer with it. Prayer was either expressed or implied, and Jehovah’s intervention was sought and anticipated. Lot (Heb., goh·ralʹ) is used literally and figuratively with the thought of “share” or “portion.”—Jos 15:1; Ps 16:5; 125:3; Isa 57:6; Jer 13:25.
Uses. Proverbs 16:33 says: “Into the lap the lot is cast down, but every decision by it is from Jehovah.” In Israel the proper use of a lot was to end a controversy: “The lot puts even contentions to rest, and it separates even the mighty from one another.” (Pr 18:18) It was not used for sport, play, or gambling. There were no bets, wagers, or stakes—no losses or winnings. It was not done to enrich the temple or the priests, nor was it done for charity. Contrariwise, the Roman soldiers did have selfish gain in mind when, as foretold at Psalm 22:18, they cast lots for Jesus’ garments.—Mt 27:35.
Answer the question in a very short sentence. Make sure it’s understandable, simple and causal. Answer like a Jehovah’s Witness and use the JW bible
Answers
GPT-4o mini
Lots were used in Bible times to seek God's guidance and resolve disputes, as they believed outcomes were determined by Jehovah.