Sortilege is a noun that refers to the practice of predicting the future using supernatural or mystical means. The correct pronunciation of Sortilege is /sɔː.tɪˈliːdʒ/ which is broken down into the following phonetic sounds: "s" pronounced as /s/, "o" pronounced as /ɔː/, "r" as /r/, "t" as /t/, "i" as /ɪ/, "l" as /l/, "e" as /iː/, "g" as /dʒ/. Despite its French origins, the pronunciation of Sortilege remains the same in both American and British English.
Sortilege is a term derived from the Latin word "sortilegium," meaning "selection by lot" or "drawing of lots." It is a form of divination or fortune-telling in which random objects or symbols are used to make predictions about the future or gain supernatural insight. Sortilege involves the process of casting lots, often using stones, sticks, or cards, and interpreting the meaning based on the patterns or arrangements that emerge.
In sortilege, practitioners believe that the objects used possess inherent spiritual or magical qualities that can reveal hidden knowledge or divine will. By engaging in this practice, individuals seek to tap into the realm of the unknown, accessing guidance or answers to questions related to their personal lives, relationships, or other aspects of their existence. While some might view sortilege as a superstition or pseudoscience, it has deep historical roots and continues to be practiced in various cultures around the world.
Sortilege is often associated with the realm of the mystical and is frequently utilized as a means of seeking guidance in situations of uncertainty. It is believed to offer a means of connecting with the divine or higher forces to receive insights into one's destiny or the course of future events. However, it is important to note that the interpretation of sortilege can vary widely depending on the culture, religious beliefs, and personal understandings of the practitioner.
Divination by drawing lots.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "sortilege" originated from the Latin term "sortilegium", which is a combination of the words "sors" meaning "lot" or "sort" and "legere" meaning "to read" or "to choose". In its earlier usage, "sortilege" referred to the practice of casting lots or drawing random lots to make a decision or predict the future. Over time, the term also came to encompass divination or fortune-telling techniques involving the use of random or chance methods.