Haruspex
A Haruspex was a priest in ancient Rome who practiced the art of divination by examining the entrails of sacrificed animals, particularly the liver. This practice, known as haruspicy, was believed to provide insights into the will of the gods and the future. Haruspices played a significant role in Roman religion and were often consulted before important decisions, such as battles or public events.
The origins of haruspicy can be traced back to the Etruscans, an ancient civilization in Italy. The knowledge and techniques of the haruspices were later adopted by the Romans, who integrated them into their own religious practices. This method of divination was part of a broader set of practices that included other forms of augury, such as interpreting the behavior of birds.