ABSTRACT
This chapter explores Iamblichu's views on the varied types of inductive divination, as well as the role of inspired divination within theurgy. It considers the precise relationship between theurgy and traditional religion, given the central role of oracles and other forms of divination in traditional religious practices. The chapter focuses on the second axiom: Iamblichu's metaphysical framework of a hierarchical schema of causation which contributes towards the fundamental distinction drawn between inspired and inductive divination. It argues that the centrality of divination within theurgy stems from Iamblichu's conception of inspired divination as a supra-rational phenomenon, a state which represents the inclusion, culmination and transcendence of rationality rather than any lack thereof. Iamblichus introduces inductive divination as entirely different from inspired divination: he considers it to be a largely 'human' endeavour and far less accurate than the inspired mode, because the predictions made are the result of 'guessing and supposition'.
