The ritual observation of signs through which Roman magistrates sought divine approval for public action.
Overview
Auspices were taken before elections, assemblies, military operations, and major acts of state. Birds, thunder, sacred chickens, and other signs could be interpreted according to established practice.
Why It Matters
The requirement for auspices placed political action within a religious framework. Disputes over whether they had been correctly taken could invalidate or delay public business.
In Roman Practice
Religious objections could be sincere, political, or both. Roman actors did not necessarily separate those motives in the modern manner.