3.3.1.3 Cast lots

Use this domain for words referring to casting lots--to make a decision by chance.

  • What is the general term for making a decision by chance?
    cast lots [in English and many languages there isn't a generic term; 'cast lots' is archaic]
  • What methods are used for making a decision by chance?
    roll a die, flip a coin, draw straws, pick names out of a hat, rock-paper-scissors, pick a card (out of a deck), count off, decide who goes first
  • What kind of decisions are made by these methods?
    deciding who goes first in a game, deciding who dies (e.g. who gets the life preserver), deciding who is guilty
  • What do people say when a decision has been made?
    X team has won the toss. OK, John goes first. I win. The Lord's will be done. It is the will of the gods. The gods have spoken.
  • What is the validating principle behind these methods?
    fate, chance, God's will, social consensus