Priests who interpreted signs connected with the gods’ approval of public action.
Overview
Augurs advised on whether the auspices permitted assemblies, elections, military operations, and other acts of state.
Why It Matters
Because public business required correct religious procedure, augural objections could have political consequences. Religion and constitutional practice were inseparable.
In Roman Practice
Augurs did not predict the future in a simple sense. They interpreted whether divine approval had been properly sought and received within established ritual rules.