Oracle bones

Definition

Oracle bones are ancient Chinese artifacts, typically made from the shoulder bones of oxen or the plastron of turtles, that were used in divination practices during the Shang dynasty. These bones feature inscriptions that represent some of the earliest forms of Chinese writing, providing critical insights into the beliefs, practices, and governance of early Chinese civilization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oracle bones are among the oldest known examples of Chinese writing, dating back to around 1200 BCE during the late Shang dynasty.
2. The inscriptions on oracle bones include questions posed to ancestors or deities about future events, such as harvests, warfare, and health.
3. Divination using oracle bones was a crucial part of Shang kingship, as rulers would consult these bones to make important political and military decisions.
4. The practice of using oracle bones reflects a deep belief in ancestral worship and the importance of communicating with the spiritual world in early Chinese culture.
5. The discovery of oracle bones in archaeological sites has provided historians and archaeologists with valuable information about the language, rituals, and societal structure of early Chinese civilization.

Review Questions

• How did oracle bones contribute to our understanding of Shang dynasty society and governance?
  • Oracle bones offer significant insights into the societal structure and governance during the Shang dynasty by revealing how kings consulted spiritual forces for decision-making. The inscriptions indicate that rulers often sought guidance on matters like agriculture and warfare from their ancestors or deities, reflecting a culture where divine approval was critical for authority. This illustrates the intertwining of religious practices with political power in early Chinese civilization.
• Discuss the role of oracle bones in Shang dynasty divination practices and their impact on Chinese culture.
  • Oracle bones played a central role in divination practices within Shang society, where they were used to predict future events by interpreting the cracks formed after heating them. This process not only guided important decisions but also reinforced social hierarchy by placing spiritual authority in the hands of the king and diviners. The influence of these practices laid foundational beliefs that would shape later Chinese culture regarding ancestors and divination.
• Evaluate how the discovery and study of oracle bones have transformed our understanding of ancient Chinese writing and historical linguistics.
  • The study of oracle bones has significantly transformed our understanding of ancient Chinese writing by providing concrete examples of early script forms and their evolution. These inscriptions are pivotal for historical linguistics as they showcase phonetic elements that can be traced back to modern Chinese characters. Furthermore, analyzing these ancient writings helps scholars decipher linguistic patterns and social contexts, enhancing our comprehension of early Chinese civilization's complexity and its development over millennia.

Related terms

Shang dynasty: The Shang dynasty is one of the earliest recorded Chinese dynasties, known for its advanced bronze metallurgy, urbanization, and a complex social structure.

Divination: Divination is the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown through supernatural means, often involving rituals and symbolic interpretations.

Bronze Age: The Bronze Age marks a period characterized by the use of bronze tools and weapons, significant technological advancements, and the emergence of complex societies.