or (shortened) גֹּרָל; from an unused root meaning to be rough (as stone); properly, a pebble, i.e. a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot); lot.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gôwrâl**, represented by `{{H1486}}`, literally refers to a **lot**, like a pebble used for casting. It appears 77 times across 67 unique verses. While it can mean a physical object used to make a decision, it figuratively expands to mean a person's assigned portion or ultimate destiny, as if determined by a divine lottery.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical practice, `{{H1486}}` is central to the impartial distribution of land and responsibilities under God's authority. It was the commanded method for dividing the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel, ensuring each received their inheritance according to God's will ([[Joshua 14:2]], [[Numbers 26:55]]). The process was conducted "before the LORD" by leaders like Joshua to finalize the division of the country [[Joshua 19:51]]. Beyond land, lots were cast to make critical decisions, such as identifying Jonah as the cause of the storm [[Jonah 1:7]], or to assign sacred duties for the temple service ([[1 Chronicles 25:8]], [[Nehemiah 10:34]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concepts of division and inheritance associated with the lot:
* `{{H2505}}` **châlaq** (to apportion or separate): This verb describes the action of division that often involved casting lots. It is used when they **parted** garments by casting lots [[Psalms 22:18]] and when the land was to be **divided** among the tribes [[Numbers 26:55]].
* `{{H5159}}` **nachălâh** (heritage, to inherit, inheritance, possession): This noun often describes the result of casting the lot, specifically the **inheritance** of land. The tribes of Israel received their **inheritance** by lot [[Joshua 14:2]], and the phrase "the lot of our **inheritance**" connects the process directly to the outcome [[Numbers 36:3]].
* `{{H2506}}` **chêleq** (an allotment; portion): This word is often used in parallel with `{{H1486}}` to signify the share or **portion** received. In a figurative sense, the psalmist declares that the LORD is his **portion** and his lot [[Psalms 16:5]], and Isaiah speaks of a rebellious people whose **portion** and **lot** are found in idolatry [[Isaiah 57:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1486}}` is rooted in God's sovereignty over all outcomes.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The practice demonstrates that what appears to be chance is under divine control. As [[Proverbs 16:33]] states, "The **lot** is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD{H3068}."
* **Sacred Allocation:** Casting lots was the sacred method for executing God's commands, particularly in distributing the Promised Land [[Numbers 33:54]] and assigning Levitical duties [[1 Chronicles 24:5]]. This elevated the process from a random drawing to a holy act.
* **Atonement Ritual:** On the Day of Atonement, Aaron cast lots over two goats to determine which would be "for the LORD{H3068}" as a sin offering and which would be the scapegoat, a foundational ceremony for atonement [[Leviticus 16:8-9]].
* **Personal Destiny:** The term is used figuratively to describe a person's appointed destiny from God. The psalmist expresses trust that God maintains his **lot** [[Psalms 16:5]], and Daniel is promised that he will "stand in thy **lot** at the end of the days" [[Daniel 12:13]], signifying a final, secure inheritance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1486}}` conveys a concept far deeper than a simple pebble. It represents a primary instrument through which divine will was revealed and enacted, whether in the practical division of land or the profound ritual of atonement. The word illustrates the biblical conviction that God's sovereign purpose governs all things, transforming an act of chance into a declaration of divine order and assigning to His people both their earthly inheritance and their ultimate spiritual **lot**.
TRV