Introduction to Oracle Bones
Oracle bones were a crucial tool for divination during China’s Shang Dynasty, roughly between 1600 and 1046 BCE. Typically made from ox scapulae or turtle shells, these bones were inscribed with questions posed to ancestors or deities about topics like weather, harvests, or military decisions.
Divination Process
The divination process began by carving a question onto the bone’s surface. The bone was then heated until it cracked. Interpreters examined the resulting cracks, believing that the patterns revealed the answers from the spirits or gods. These readings guided important decisions for rulers and families alike.
Historical Significance
Oracle bones are the earliest known form of Chinese writing, offering a window into the language, culture, and governance of the Shang Dynasty. Beyond their divinatory role, they provide modern historians and archaeologists with invaluable insights into the social structure, political concerns, and everyday life of ancient China.
Legacy
Today, oracle bones are recognized as one of the most important archaeological discoveries in Chinese history. They not only highlight the ingenuity of early civilizations in seeking guidance and understanding but also illustrate the enduring human desire to connect with the unknown and influence the future.
