Albert Barnes Commentary Proverbs 16:33

"The lot is cast into the lap; But the whole disposing thereof is of Jehovah." — Proverbs 16:33 (ASV)

Disposing - Better, the judgment or sentence which depends upon the lot. The lots were thrown into the gathered folds of a robe, and then drawn out. Where everything seemed the merest chance, the faithful Israelite teacher recognized the guidance of a higher will. Compare the case of Achan (Joshua 7:18) and of Jonathan (1 Samuel 14:37–42). The process here described would seem to have been employed ordinarily in trials where the judges could not decide on the facts before them .