Jonah 1:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When this approach did not succeed, the Scripture states that they cast lots, and ultimately, the lot identified the one who was culpable.

The swimmers concoct something extravagant, peculiar, and unexpected, seeking to discern by chance whom the Lord has condemned. However, this is also orchestrated so that the individual who believed he could evade the presence of God is brought to light; for the lot is cast upon him, and he is made vulnerable to shame by his very actions. He likely feared revealing his intentions too soon due to the impending scorn. Thus, it is both prudent and virtuous for those who desire to adhere to the scripture, “Be not ashamed to confess thy sins” (Sir 4:30).

They spoke to each other, saying, Let us draw lots to determine the reason for this calamity affecting us. They cast lots, and it fell upon Jonah. They understood the sea's behavior, and after navigating its waters for a while, they were aware of the factors that caused storms and strong winds. Had they encountered the normal waves familiar to them from prior voyages, they certainly would not have sought the source of the impending ruin, nor would they have attempted to evade a known threat through an uncertain means.

The crew of the ship chose to take one final action: they cast lots to determine who was responsible for the calamity that had befallen them. The lot identified Jonah, as his defiance of God's command had stirred up the tempest, causing turmoil on the sea and destruction to the vessel amidst the fierce winds and crashing waves. By divine providence, Jonah was thrown into the ocean. In accordance with the prophetic foretellings, our Lord endured suffering.

In this instance, the Gentile men, driven by hardship, sought guidance through the casting of lots regarding the peril they faced. Similarly, Matthew was selected by lot, as recorded in Acts 1:21-26, ensuring that it was not perceived that the Apostle's selection contradicted the stipulations of the Old Covenant. It is prescribed that the succession of the priestly office be determined by lot, as illustrated in the account of Zacharias, who entered the temple of the Lord by lot, following the established practice of the priests (Luke 1:8-9).

During a gathering, the suggestion was made to draw lots to determine who among them was the cause of the misfortune sent by God, and the lot revealed Jonah.

When their prayers seemed ineffective, they questioned whether a sacrifice was necessary to appease the wrathful God or if someone ought to endure the consequences of His anger. To determine the individual at fault, they chose to cast lots, and the lot indicated Jonah.