The answer is: Cast lots

Jonah 1:7 - An ancient method to supposedly find out the mind of a god - in this case the true God directed the lot to fall upon Jonah.

In the tale of Jonah, we find a rather compelling drama at sea, complete with stormy chaos and the desperate cries of sailors. Picture this: a group of rugged seafarers caught in a frightening tempest, dipping their nets in hopes of catching a blessing instead of calamity. When they decide to "cast lots," it’s not just a game; it’s rooted in ancient customs where people looked to divine guidance.

Casting lots was like throwing ancient dice and believed to reflect the will of the gods. It appears in several instances throughout the Bible, like in the selection of a new leader after Judas Iscariot. This use of lots reminds us that often people sought answers in odd places! It shows us the sailors' ernest efforts to make sense of their wilderness, revealing both their desperation and depth as they search passionately for the truth.

Here's a thrilling trivia twist—this storm wasn't just any storm! The Hebrew word used for 'wind' and 'storm' suggests an untamed, divine force at play, possibly foreshadowing Jonah's own turbulent journey. Additionally, as the sailors delve deeper into the divine insight of the lots, not only are their lives at stake, but their very beliefs are radically reshaped! It’s fascinating that a runaway prophet would lead them to confrontation with their spiritual understandings. Ultimately, it's redemption and revelation that go hand in hand here, not just disaster—but a chance for illumination beneath the chaotic waves!