Source
- Prediction: Based on evidence, logic, or analysis of data. Think weather forecasts or stock market trends.
- Prophecy: Claimed to come from divine inspiration or supernatural insight. It’s often associated with religious figures or texts.
Certainty
- Prediction: Usually presented with probabilities or ranges of possibilities. “There’s a 70% chance of rain tomorrow.”
- Prophecy: Often portrayed as pronouncements that will definitely come true. “The chosen one will bring peace to the land.”
Purpose
- Prediction: To inform decisions or actions in the present.
- Prophecy: Can have various purposes depending on the context. It might aim to warn, inspire, or provide comfort about the future. Sometimes it serves as a moral guide or test of faith.
Accuracy
- Prediction: Can be tested and verified against reality. Predictions can be successful or unsuccessful.
- Prophecy: Since prophecies are often about the distant future or hinge on specific conditions, their accuracy is difficult to assess. They may be interpreted in many ways after the fact.
Examples
- Prediction: “Self-driving cars will likely be common on highways by 2040.”
- Prophecy: “A great flood will cleanse the world of wickedness.”
Summary
Prophecies stem from a belief in supernatural forces or religious authority. Predictions can be right or wrong, while prophecies are often open to interpretation.