CASTING LOTS/ SELECTION BY LOTS
The practice of selection by lot, or “casting lots,” holds significant meaning in biblical tradition and Jewish history. This method of decision-making, believed to reveal divine will, appears in several important instances in the Bible and Jewish teachings. This article explores the biblical meaning of selection by lot, its examples in both the Old and New Testaments, and its message for us as Christians.
SELECTION BY LOT IN THE BIBLE
Zechariah’s Selection for Incensing (Luke 1:9)
In the Gospel of Luke, we find a notable example of selection by lot. Luke 1:9 describes how Zechariah, a priest from the division of Abijah, was chosen “according to the custom of the priesthood, to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense.” This practice ensured that the decision was left to divine providence, demonstrating that God’s hand was involved in every aspect of worship. The burning of incense symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God (Ps 141:2). Zechariah’s selection underscored the sacredness of his priestly duties and the belief that God guides the lives of His servants.
Matthias Chosen as Apostle (Acts 1:24-26)
Another prominent instance of casting lots occurs in the Acts of the Apostles. After Judas Iscariot’s betrayal and subsequent death, the apostles sought to fill the vacancy among the Twelve. Acts 1:24-26 recounts, “And they prayed and said, ‘You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.’ And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” This selection of Matthias as an apostle highlights the early Church’s belief in divine guidance through the casting of lots.
Soldiers Casting Lots for Jesus’ Garments (Jn 19:23-24)
One of the most poignant examples of casting lots in the New Testament is the casting of lots by the Roman soldiers for Jesus’ garments at His crucifixion. John 19:23-24 states, “When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom, so they said to one another, ‘Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.’ This was to fulfill the Scripture which says, ‘They divided my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.'” This event fulfilled the prophecy from Psalm 22:18 and highlights how even in moments of human cruelty, God’s sovereign will is evident.
EXAMPLES FROM JEWISH TRADITION
Achan’s Sin Revealed (Josh 7:14-18)
When Israel suffered a defeat at Ai, Joshua cast lots to identify the cause of God’s displeasure. The lot revealed Achan’s sin of taking forbidden items. This example underscores the belief that God’s will can be revealed through lots, leading to justice and the restoration of the community’s purity.
Allocation of the Promised Land (Josh 18:10)
The land of Canaan was distributed among the Israelite tribes by casting lots. Joshua 18:10 states, “And Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord; and there Joshua divided the land to the children of Israel according to their divisions.” This ensured an impartial and divinely guided allocation.
The Day of Atonement (Lev 16:8)
On the Day of Atonement, lots were cast to determine which goat would be sacrificed and which would be the scapegoat. Leviticus 16:8 says, “Aaron shall cast lots upon the two goats, one lot for the Lord and the other lot for Azazel.” This ritual underscores the belief that God’s will could be discerned through this method.
The Festival of Purim (Esth 3:7)
In the Book of Esther, lots (pur) were cast by Haman to determine the day for the destruction of the Jews. Esther 3:7 describes this event, which ultimately led to the festival of Purim, celebrating the deliverance of the Jewish people.
Proverbs on Casting Lots (Prov 16:33)
The Book of Proverbs offers insight into the theological understanding of this practice. Proverbs 16:33 declares, “The lot is cast into the lap, but the decision is wholly from the Lord.” This verse encapsulates the belief that while humans may cast lots, the outcome is ultimately determined by God’s providence.
Catholic Teachings on Divine Guidance
The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s providence and discernment. It teaches that God’s will is often revealed through prayer and the sacraments. Catholics are encouraged to seek God’s guidance in all decisions, trusting that His wisdom surpasses human understanding (CCC 305).
REFLECTION
As we reflect on these biblical and historical examples of selection by lot, we are reminded of God’s sovereignty and the various ways He has guided His people throughout history. While the casting of lots is no longer a common practice in Christian decision-making, its presence in Scripture offers valuable lessons for our faith journey.
Trust in God’s Providence:
Firstly, it teaches us to trust in God’s providence. Just as the ancients believed that lot-casting revealed divine will, we too should seek God’s guidance in our decisions, recognizing that He is ultimately in control.
Importance of Community in Discernment:
Secondly, these examples remind us of the importance of community in discernment. The apostles gathered together to select Matthias, demonstrating that seeking God’s will often involves collective prayer and decision-making within the Church.
Openness to God’s Direction:
Lastly, while we may not cast lots today, we are called to be open to God’s direction in our lives. This may come through prayer, Scripture, the teachings of the Church, or the counsel of wise and faithful individuals.
Conclusion
The biblical practice of casting lots highlights the deep faith in divine intervention and the belief that God guides the decisions and lives of His people. Through examples like Zechariah, Matthias, and the soldiers at Jesus’ crucifixion, we learn the importance of seeking God’s will and trusting in His providence. As modern Christians, let us commit to prayerful discernment and openness to God’s guidance, confident that He will lead us according to His divine plan.