Proverbs 16:33
The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
יוּטַ֣ל
is cast
H2904
יוּטַ֣ל
is cast
Strong's:
H2904
Word #:
2 of 7
to pitch over or reel; hence (transitively) to cast down or out
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַגּוֹרָ֑ל
The lot
H1486
הַגּוֹרָ֑ל
The lot
Strong's:
H1486
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)
וּ֝מֵיְהוָ֗ה
thereof is of the LORD
H3068
וּ֝מֵיְהוָ֗ה
thereof is of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
5 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Cross References
Acts 1:26And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.Proverbs 18:18The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.Nehemiah 11:1And the rulers of the people dwelt 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.Jonah 1:7And they said every one to his fellow, Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose cause this evil is upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah.Proverbs 29:26Many seek the ruler's favour; but every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.Joshua 18:10And Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of Israel according to their divisions.
Historical Context
Ancient Israel used lots for various decisions: dividing land (Joshua 18:10), selecting Saul as king (1 Samuel 10:20-21), determining guilt (Joshua 7:14, Jonah 1:7), assigning temple duties (1 Chronicles 24:5), choosing Judas' replacement (Acts 1:26). This wasn't superstition but recognition that God controlled outcomes (Proverbs 16:9). After Pentecost, the Spirit guided directly, making lots unnecessary. Yet God's sovereignty over all events remains constant.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing God's sovereignty over seemingly random events affect your view of 'luck' or 'chance'?
- In what situations are you tempted to think outcomes are random rather than divinely governed?
- How should God's sovereignty over all things shape your trust and peace amid uncertainty?
Analysis & Commentary
The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD. Bachetq yutal et-hagoral (בַּחֵתֶק יוּטַל אֶת־הַגּוֹרָל, into the lap is cast the lot). Ancient decision-making used lots—casting stones or dice. Ume-YHVH kol-mishpato (וּמֵיְהוָה כָּל־מִשְׁפָּטוֹ, but from the LORD is all its judgment/decision). Despite appearing random, lots' outcomes are divinely determined. The proverb asserts God's sovereignty even over seemingly chance events. Nothing is random to God. While Christians don't use lots today (having the Spirit's guidance), the principle remains—God sovereignly governs all outcomes, even apparent randomness.