ABSTRACT
Iamblichus’ De Mysteriis offers a typology of diverse types of divination, categorising them into ‘inspired’ and ‘inductive’ modes.1 Using this typology, Iamblichus classifies oracles and dream divination (oneiromancy) as ‘inspired’ divination, exploring the nature and operation of the Oracles of Delphi, Didyma and Claros (introducing these well-known oracular sanctuaries as representative case studies), dream divination (oneiromancy) and various types of inductive divination. This chapter will explore Iamblichus’ views on these varied types of divination, as well as the role of inspired divination (mantikhv) within theurgy (which I will refer to as ‘theurgic divination’). Given the central role of oracles and other forms of divination in traditional religious practices, this chapter will also consider the precise relationship between theurgy and traditional religion.
