What is the research about?

Dr. Hanna Tervanotko’s project analyzes the methods ancient Jews used to deal with the uncertainties of life. Ancient authors narrate Jews relied on different methods, such as the lot oracle, the death oracle, and physiognomy, to uncover “hidden knowledge.” By offering access to such knowledge, divinatory methods provided opportunities to have more control over one’s life, thus providing more stability and improving their general well-being.