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(), n.[F., fr. L. oraculum, fr. orare to speak, utter, pray, fr. os, oris, mouth. See Oral.] 1. The answer of a god, or some person reputed to be a god, to an inquiry respecting some affair or future event, as the success of an enterprise or battle. Whatso'er she saith, for oracles must stand. Drayton. 2. Hence: The deity who was supposed to give the answer; also, the place where it was given. The oracles are dumb; No voice or hideous hum Runs through the arched roof in words deceiving. Milton. 3. The communications, revelations, or messages delivered by God to the prophets; also, the entire sacred Scriptures -- usually in the plural. The first principles of the oracles of God. Heb. v. 12. 4. (Jewish Antiq.) The sanctuary, or Most Holy place in the temple; also, the temple itself. 1 Kings vi. 19. Siloa's brook, that flow'd Fast by the oracle of God. Milton. 5. One who communicates a divine command; an angel; a prophet. God hath now sent his living oracle Into the world to teach hi Or"acle v. i.[imp. & p. p.Oracled (); p. pr. & vb. n.Oracling ().] To utter oracles. [Obs.] スポンサード リンク
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