sortes

Definition

divination, or the seeking of guidance, by chance selection of a passage in the Bible or another text regarded as authoritative.

Etymology

From Latin plural of sors (“lot, fate, oracular response”).

Example Sentences

• "Book oracles, called sortes (from the Latin sors = lot, indicating that one would obtain the answers by casting lots), allowed for consultation on the spot; the oracle could even come to the petitioner!"