Oracle

In mathematics, an oracle is a black box posited in logic which, without revealing the methods of proof, can decide whether a statement is true or false. In higher computability theory, one often makes use of oracles that can solve the Halting problem to deduce the undecidability of computing problems.

The term oracle is taken from the Greek Oracle at Delphi, a pagan priestess, who, when drugged appropriately, could see the future. The oracle is a central part of many Greek myths, and is often used to teach the lesson that "no man can escape his fate" (see also hubris).

For the computer technology company, see Oracle Corporation