ORACLE

Definitions

1. 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. 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. 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. 4. 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. 5. One who communicates a divine command; an angel; a prophet. God hath now sent his living oracle Into the world to teach his final will. Milton.
6. 6. Any person reputed uncommonly wise; one whose decisions are regarded as of great authority; as, a literary oracle. "Oracles of mode." Tennyson. The country rectors . . . thought him an oracle on points of learning. Macaulay.
7. 7. A wise sentence or decision of great authority.