Augural: meaning, definitions and examples

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augural

[ɔːˈɡjʊərəl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

ceremonial occasion

The term 'augural' relates to the rites or ceremonies of augurs, who were priests in ancient Rome serving as diviners. It refers to events or actions that have prophetic significance or serve as an omen, often tied to public ceremonies or rituals.

Synonyms

divinatory, omen-related, prophetic.

Examples of usage

The augural ceremony was filled with rituals to ensure a successful harvest.
He delivered an augural speech before the dedication of the new temple.
The augural signs were interpreted by the priest before the ceremony.
During the augural rites, animals were sacrificed to seek divine favor.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term originates from the Latin word 'augur', which referred to a priest in ancient Rome who interpreted omens.
In ancient Rome, augurs would observe bird behaviors to make predictions about important events.
The process of reading omens varied but often included the behavior of animals and natural phenomena.

Historical Significance

Augury was an essential practice in Roman religion, influencing decisions such as when to go to war or hold elections.
The practice of augury fell out of favor with the rise of rational thought during the Enlightenment period.
Many cultures around the world have their own forms of augural practices, demonstrating a universal human desire to predict the future.

Cultural Perspectives

In various indigenous cultures, natural signs and animal behavior are revered and interpreted as guides for future actions.
In literature and film, augural themes often appear when characters seek knowledge about their destinies or the outcomes of conflicts.
Many modern belief systems still include interpretation of signs, showcasing a blend of ancient practices with contemporary thoughts.

Literature

Augural themes are prominent in works such as Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar', where omens signal foreboding events.
In classical literature, poems and stories often depict characters who consult signs or oracles to understand their fate.
The concept of augury appears in fantasy genres, where characters might seek prophetic guidance to influence their journeys.

Psychology

The need to make predictions is a fundamental aspect of human psychology, aiding in decision-making and risk assessment.
Belief in augural signs is linked to cognitive biases where people see patterns and assign meaning to random events.
Modern psychological studies explore the impact of superstition and symbolic interpretation in shaping behavior and outlook on life.