Proverbs 16:33

The lot. It is not the desire of the Lord that man should decide every matter by a procedure like that of casting lots. When there is good evidence, or a pertinent principle, to guide the mind in coming to a decision, the use of the lot weakens both the mind and the character. The lot should be employed only if God specifically directs; otherwise there can be no assurance of an inspired answer.

The method by which the Hebrews cast lots is in some doubt. The word translated 'lot" literally means "pebble," suggesting that stones were used, perhaps of varied colors or of peculiar shapes. This verse seems to indicate that the stones, at times at least, were thrown into a fold of the bosom of a robe, shaken, and then drawn out (see Joshua 18:10; Prov. 18: 18; Acts 1:23-26).