Topical Encyclopedia The use of the lot as a means of decision-making and discerning God's will is a practice that continued among the Israelites even after their return from the Babylonian captivity. This method, deeply rooted in the traditions of ancient Israel, was employed in various contexts, reflecting both a reliance on divine providence and a commitment to fairness and impartiality.Biblical Context and Usage The practice of casting lots is mentioned several times in the post-exilic period, particularly in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. These books document the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem and the re-establishment of their religious and communal life. The lot was used to ensure that decisions were made according to God's will, free from human bias. In Nehemiah 10:34 , the casting of lots is described as a method for determining the order of the priests and Levites in bringing wood to the temple: "We have cast lots among the priests, Levites, and people to bring wood offerings to the house of our God, according to our fathers’ houses, at appointed times year by year, to burn on the altar of the LORD our God, as it is written in the Law." Similarly, in Nehemiah 11:1 , lots were cast to decide who would live in Jerusalem: "Now the leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem, and the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the remaining nine were to stay in their own towns." Theological Significance The use of the lot after the captivity underscores a continued reliance on divine guidance in the reconstitution of Israelite society. It reflects a belief that God is sovereign over all decisions and that His will can be discerned through seemingly random processes. This practice aligns with the broader biblical theme that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people, guiding them in ways that may transcend human understanding. The casting of lots also served a practical purpose in ensuring fairness and equality. By removing human choice from the equation, the Israelites could avoid disputes and accusations of favoritism, thereby maintaining unity and harmony within the community. Historical and Cultural Considerations The post-exilic period was a time of rebuilding and re-establishing identity for the Jewish people. The use of the lot can be seen as part of a broader effort to restore traditional practices and adhere closely to the Law of Moses. This period was marked by a renewed emphasis on covenant faithfulness and a desire to avoid the sins that had led to the exile. In the broader ancient Near Eastern context, the casting of lots was a common practice, not unique to Israel. However, for the Israelites, it held a distinct theological significance, as it was seen as a means of seeking God's will rather than merely a tool of chance. Conclusion The use of the lot after the captivity illustrates the Israelites' commitment to divine guidance and communal integrity. It highlights their reliance on God in the practical aspects of life and their desire to align their actions with His will. Through this practice, they sought to ensure that their restored community was built on principles of justice and faithfulness. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 11:1And the rulers of the people dwelled at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to dwell in other cities. Nave's Topical Index Library Scotland and Ireland The Protevangelium. The Historical Books. Third Sunday after Easter Psalm LXVIII. Fire! Fire! Fire! On the Great Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria. Concerning the Passion of Christ, and Its Old Testament ... New Uses for Old Trophies Acts II Resources What does it mean to “remember Lot's wife” in Luke 17:32? | GotQuestions.orgIf you have a lot of debt, can you temporarily stop tithing while paying off the debt? | GotQuestions.org Why was Lot's wife turned into a pillar of salt? | GotQuestions.org Lot: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lot: The Son of Haran: Accompanies Terah from Ur of the Chaldees to Haran Lot: The Son of Haran: Commits Incest With his Daughters Lot: The Son of Haran: Disobediently Protests Against Going to the Mountains, and Chooses Zoar Lot: The Son of Haran: His Wife Disobediently Yearns After Sodom, and Becomes a Pillar of Salt Lot: The Son of Haran: Migrates With Abraham to the Land of Canaan Lot: The Son of Haran: Providentially Saved from Destruction in Sodom Lot: The Son of Haran: Returns With Him to Beth-El Lot: The Son of Haran: Separates from Abraham, and Locates in Sodom Lot: The Son of Haran: Taken Captive by Chedorlaomer; Rescued by Abraham The Lot used After the Captivity The Lot used to Fix the Time for the Execution of Condemned Persons The Lot: Achan's Guilt Ascertained By The Lot: General Scriptures Concerning The Lot: Priests and Levites Designated By, for Sanctuary Service The Lot: The Garments of Jesus Divided By The Lot: The Land of Canaan Divided Among Tribes By The Lot: The Scapegoat Chosen By Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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