APAD: In the lap of the gods

Meaning:

Beyond human control

 

Background:

This phrase is first recorded in Homer's Iliad which is believed to date from

the 8th century BC.

 

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Man seeks to know what's within his power as reflected by the serenity prayer:

    God, grant me the

    Serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

    Courage to change the things I can,

    And wisdom to know the difference.

 

I suspect God has allowed the first two but withheld the third wish and I ended

up less sure of anything :-)

 

The 'lap' here means "An area of responsibility, interest, or control: an

opportunity that dropped in his lap." [AHD4]