# lots, casting lots

## Definition:

In the Bible, a “lot” is a marked object(s) used as a way of making a fair and/or random decision, usually for the purpose of selecting a specific person within a group. “Casting lots” refers to the process of using “lots” to make a fair and/or random decision.

* In modern times, some cultures “draw” or “pull out” lots using a bunch of straws. Someone holds the straws so that no one can see how long they are. Each person pulls out a straw and the one who picks the longest (or shortest) straw is the one who is chosen.
* In biblical times, the objects cast (the “lots”) were probably small marked stones. It is unknown how the “lots” actually indicated a decision, but it probably involved dropping or throwing marked stones on the ground.
* The phrase “casting lots” can be translated as “tossing lots” or “throwing lots” or “rolling lots.” The translation of “cast” should not sound like the lots were being thrown a long distance.
* If a decision is made “by lot,” this could be translated as “by casting lots” or “by throwing lots,” etc.

(See also: [Elizabeth](../names/elizabeth.md), [priest](../kt/priest.md), [Zechariah (OT)](../names/zechariahot.md), [Zechariah (NT)](../names/zechariahnt.md))

## Bible References:

* [Jonah 1:7](rc://en/tn/help/jon/01/07)
* [Luke 1:8-10](rc://en/tn/help/luk/01/08)
* [Luke 23:34](rc://en/tn/help/luk/23/34)
* [Mark 15:22](rc://en/tn/help/mrk/15/22)
* [Matthew 27:35-37](rc://en/tn/help/mat/27/35)
* [Psalms 22:18-19](rc://en/tn/help/psa/022/018)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H1486, H5307, G28190, G29750
