Why did people consult diviners during illness, drought, death, or suspected theft?

People consult diviners during times of crisis—such as illness, drought, death, or suspected theft—to gain information that allows them to act with confidence and to provide public credibility for their decisions.1

When individuals face these situations, they are often unsure how to behave or are overwhelmed by anxiety. Divination serves to define the nature of the crisis and name the source of the trouble, transforming bafflement into a clear decision. By marking out and delimiting the area of concern, the diviner helps the client move past uncertainty; in many cultures, following the findings of a diviner provides a socially accepted justification for a course of action, whereas ignoring them might be viewed as arbitrary.1

Ultimately, the function of divination in these contexts is the legitimation of problematic decisions. Whether the goal is to remove the source of trouble through sacrifice, countersorcery, or other means, the process helps individuals navigate complex or distressing circumstances by providing a structured, recognized path forward.21