In the Old Testament used in every case, except 2 Samuel 16:23, to denote the most holy place in the temple (1 Kings 6:5, 19-23; 8:6). In 2 Samuel 16:23 it means the Word of God. A man inquired "at the oracle of God" by means of the Urim and Thummim in the breastplate on the high priest's ephod. In the New Testament it is used only in the plural, and always denotes the Word of God (Romans 3:2; Hebrews 5:12, etc.). The Scriptures are called "living oracles" (Comp. Hebrews 4:12) because of their quickening power (Acts 7:38).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (n.) The answer of a god, or some person reputed to be a god, to an inquiry respecting some affair or future event, as the success of an enterprise or battle.

2. (n.) Hence: The deity who was supposed to give the answer; also, the place where it was given.

3. (n.) The communications, revelations, or messages delivered by God to the prophets; also, the entire sacred Scriptures -- usually in the plural.

4. (n.) The sanctuary, or Most Holy place in the temple; also, the temple itself.

5. (n.) One who communicates a divine command; an angel; a prophet.

6. (n.) Any person reputed uncommonly wise; one whose decisions are regarded as of great authority; as, a literary oracle.

7. (n.) A wise sentence or decision of great authority.

8. (v. i.) To utter oracles.