Learn about itLearn onlyHistorical practice
This page describes the practice. There is deliberately no automated reading for it — see the notes below.
Background
In the Hebrew Bible the Urim and Thummim are associated with the breastplate (hoshen) of the High Priest, and they appear in passages such as Exodus 28:30 and 1 Samuel 14:41. Their exact form and function are unclear.
How it works
Their working is not described; scholars infer from the texts that they gave answers to questions put by the priest.
Notes and limits
Culture: A sacred object of ancient Israelite religion; described historically only, with no reconstruction.
At a glance
- Also called
- Urim ve-Thummim, אוּרִים וְתֻמִּים
- Traditions
- Ancient Israelite, Hebrew Bible
- Regions
- Middle East & Persia
- You need
- Nothing
- Price
- Free