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Oracle Bones: Divination and Early Chinese Writing

At a Glance

Title: Oracle Bones: Divination and Early Chinese Writing

Total Categories: 7

Category Stats

  • Oracle Bones: Materials and Preparation: 8 flashcards, 8 questions
  • The Divination Ritual and Interpretation: 7 flashcards, 9 questions
  • Oracle Bone Script: Characteristics and Significance: 7 flashcards, 6 questions
  • Discovery and Identification of Oracle Bones: 8 flashcards, 5 questions
  • Archaeological Context: Yinxu and Shang Dynasty: 7 flashcards, 9 questions
  • Scholarly Contributions and Chronological Frameworks: 9 flashcards, 12 questions
  • Evolution and Decline of the Practice: 4 flashcards, 7 questions

Total Stats

  • Total Flashcards: 50
  • True/False Questions: 29
  • Multiple Choice Questions: 27
  • Total Questions: 56

Instructions

Click the button to expand the instructions for how to use the Wiki2Web Teacher studio in order to print, edit, and export data about Oracle Bones: Divination and Early Chinese Writing

Welcome to Your Curriculum Command Center

This guide will turn you into a Wiki2web Studio power user. Let's unlock the features designed to give you back your weekends.

The Core Concept: What is a "Kit"?

Think of a Kit as your all-in-one digital lesson plan. It's a single, portable file that contains every piece of content for a topic: your subject categories, a central image, all your flashcards, and all your questions. The true power of the Studio is speed—once a kit is made (or you import one), you are just minutes away from printing an entire set of coursework.

Getting Started is Simple:

  • Create New Kit: Start with a clean slate. Perfect for a brand-new lesson idea.
  • Import & Edit Existing Kit: Load a .json kit file from your computer to continue your work or to modify a kit created by a colleague.
  • Restore Session: The Studio automatically saves your progress in your browser. If you get interrupted, you can restore your unsaved work with one click.

Step 1: Laying the Foundation (The Authoring Tools)

This is where you build the core knowledge of your Kit. Use the left-side navigation panel to switch between these powerful authoring modules.

⚙️ Kit Manager: Your Kit's Identity

This is the high-level control panel for your project.

  • Kit Name: Give your Kit a clear title. This will appear on all your printed materials.
  • Master Image: Upload a custom cover image for your Kit. This is essential for giving your content a professional visual identity, and it's used as the main graphic when you export your Kit as an interactive game.
  • Topics: Create the structure for your lesson. Add topics like "Chapter 1," "Vocabulary," or "Key Formulas." All flashcards and questions will be organized under these topics.

🃏 Flashcard Author: Building the Knowledge Blocks

Flashcards are the fundamental concepts of your Kit. Create them here to define terms, list facts, or pose simple questions.

  • Click "➕ Add New Flashcard" to open the editor.
  • Fill in the term/question and the definition/answer.
  • Assign the flashcard to one of your pre-defined topics.
  • To edit or remove a flashcard, simply use the ✏️ (Edit) or ❌ (Delete) icons next to any entry in the list.

✍️ Question Author: Assessing Understanding

Create a bank of questions to test knowledge. These questions are the engine for your worksheets and exams.

  • Click "➕ Add New Question".
  • Choose a Type: True/False for quick checks or Multiple Choice for more complex assessments.
  • To edit an existing question, click the ✏️ icon. You can change the question text, options, correct answer, and explanation at any time.
  • The Explanation field is a powerful tool: the text you enter here will automatically appear on the teacher's answer key and on the Smart Study Guide, providing instant feedback.

🔗 Intelligent Mapper: The Smart Connection

This is the secret sauce of the Studio. The Mapper transforms your content from a simple list into an interconnected web of knowledge, automating the creation of amazing study guides.

  • Step 1: Select a question from the list on the left.
  • Step 2: In the right panel, click on every flashcard that contains a concept required to answer that question. They will turn green, indicating a successful link.
  • The Payoff: When you generate a Smart Study Guide, these linked flashcards will automatically appear under each question as "Related Concepts."

Step 2: The Magic (The Generator Suite)

You've built your content. Now, with a few clicks, turn it into a full suite of professional, ready-to-use materials. What used to take hours of formatting and copying-and-pasting can now be done in seconds.

🎓 Smart Study Guide Maker

Instantly create the ultimate review document. It combines your questions, the correct answers, your detailed explanations, and all the "Related Concepts" you linked in the Mapper into one cohesive, printable guide.

📝 Worksheet & 📄 Exam Builder

Generate unique assessments every time. The questions and multiple-choice options are randomized automatically. Simply select your topics, choose how many questions you need, and generate:

  • A Student Version, clean and ready for quizzing.
  • A Teacher Version, complete with a detailed answer key and the explanations you wrote.

🖨️ Flashcard Printer

Forget wrestling with table layouts in a word processor. Select a topic, choose a cards-per-page layout, and instantly generate perfectly formatted, print-ready flashcard sheets.

Step 3: Saving and Collaborating

  • 💾 Export & Save Kit: This is your primary save function. It downloads the entire Kit (content, images, and all) to your computer as a single .json file. Use this to create permanent backups and share your work with others.
  • ➕ Import & Merge Kit: Combine your work. You can merge a colleague's Kit into your own or combine two of your lessons into a larger review Kit.

You're now ready to reclaim your time.

You're not just a teacher; you're a curriculum designer, and this is your Studio.

This page is an interactive visualization based on the Wikipedia article "Oracle bone" (opens in new tab) and its cited references.

Text content is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 License (opens in new tab). Additional terms may apply.

Disclaimer: This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute any kind of advice. The information is not a substitute for consulting official sources or records or seeking advice from qualified professionals.


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Study Guide: Oracle Bones: Divination and Early Chinese Writing

Study Guide: Oracle Bones: Divination and Early Chinese Writing

Oracle Bones: Materials and Preparation

Oracle bones were primarily crafted from ox scapulae and turtle plastrons for the purpose of pyromancy.

Answer: True

The archaeological evidence confirms that oracle bones were predominantly fashioned from ox scapulae and turtle plastrons, utilized in the ancient practice of pyromancy for divination.

Related Concepts:

  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • What specific materials were used to create oracle bones?: The primary materials used for oracle bones were pieces of ox scapula (shoulder blade) and turtle plastron (the underside of the shell). Other animal bones and even human skulls were occasionally used, though less commonly.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

The preparation of oracle bones involved polishing them and drilling or chiseling pits partway through.

Answer: True

The preparation process for oracle bones included meticulous cleaning, smoothing, and the precise drilling or chiseling of pits into the material, which were crucial for the subsequent cracking during divination.

Related Concepts:

  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • How were used oracle bones ritually disposed of after divination?: After use, oracle bones that had been ritually employed were buried in separate pits. Some pits were designated for shells only, while others were for scapulae only, often containing hundreds or thousands of pieces.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

What materials were commonly used to create oracle bones?

Answer: Ox scapulae and turtle plastrons

The most common materials utilized for the creation of oracle bones were the scapulae (shoulder blades) of oxen and the plastrons (undersides) of turtles.

Related Concepts:

  • What specific materials were used to create oracle bones?: The primary materials used for oracle bones were pieces of ox scapula (shoulder blade) and turtle plastron (the underside of the shell). Other animal bones and even human skulls were occasionally used, though less commonly.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

What is the significance of the flat surfaces on oracle bones and shells for the divination process?

Answer: They provided a smooth area for inscribing questions and for cracking.

The flat surfaces of oracle bones and shells were crucial as they offered a suitable area for inscribing the divinatory questions and for the subsequent application of heat to induce the characteristic cracks.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the significance of the flat surfaces on oracle bones and shells?: The flat surfaces on oracle bones and shells were significant because they provided a smooth area for inscribing questions and for the subsequent cracking process. Their large, flat nature required minimal preparation, making them practical for divination.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • What specific materials were used to create oracle bones?: The primary materials used for oracle bones were pieces of ox scapula (shoulder blade) and turtle plastron (the underside of the shell). Other animal bones and even human skulls were occasionally used, though less commonly.

Besides ox scapulae and turtle plastrons, what other animal bones were sometimes used for inscriptions?

Answer: Sheep, boar, horse, and deer scapulae

In addition to the predominant use of ox scapulae and turtle plastrons, inscriptions were also found on the scapulae of sheep, boars, horses, and deer.

Related Concepts:

  • Besides ox scapulae and turtle plastrons, what other animal bones were sometimes used for oracle bone inscriptions?: Besides ox scapulae and turtle plastrons, other animal bones used for oracle bone inscriptions included the scapulae of sheep, boars, horses, and deer, as well as ox rib bones. Human skulls were also found with inscriptions, though rarely.
  • What specific materials were used to create oracle bones?: The primary materials used for oracle bones were pieces of ox scapula (shoulder blade) and turtle plastron (the underside of the shell). Other animal bones and even human skulls were occasionally used, though less commonly.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.

What rare inscribed items, besides animal bones, were found and likely used for record-keeping or practice?

Answer: Deer, ox, and human skulls

Rare inscribed artifacts discovered include the skulls of deer, oxen, and humans, which are believed to have served purposes related to record-keeping or practice rather than divination.

Related Concepts:

  • What rare inscribed items, besides animal bones, have been found, and what was their likely purpose?: Rare inscribed items found include the skulls of deer, oxen, and humans. These are believed to have been inscribed for record-keeping or practice rather than for actual divination.

Why is it theorized that tortoises were presented as tribute to the Shang?

Answer: They are not native to the regions where oracle bones were discovered.

The theory suggests that tortoises were presented as tribute to the Shang court because they are not indigenous to the geographical areas where oracle bones were typically sourced or discovered.

Related Concepts:

  • Why is it theorized that tortoises, from which plastrons were sourced, were presented as tribute to the Shang?: It is theorized that tortoises were presented as tribute to the Shang because they are not native to the regions where oracle bones were discovered. Notations on the bones often recorded their provenance, including tribute shipments.

What steps were involved in preparing the bones or shells for divination?

Answer: Cleaning, smoothing, and drilling/chiseling pits.

The preparation of oracle bones and shells involved cleaning them thoroughly, smoothing their surfaces, and then carefully drilling or chiseling pits partway through the material.

Related Concepts:

  • Describe the process of divination using oracle bones.: Diviners would inscribe questions onto cleaned and prepared bones or shells. Intense heat was then applied with a metal rod to specific points, causing the material to crack due to thermal expansion. The resulting pattern of cracks was then interpreted by the diviner to divine an answer.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

The Divination Ritual and Interpretation

The primary use of oracle bones was for recording historical events and royal decrees.

Answer: False

The principal function of oracle bones was not historical record-keeping but rather serving as a medium for divination, through which questions were posed to deities and ancestors.

Related Concepts:

  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • What kind of questions were typically submitted to deities via oracle bones?: Questions submitted to deities via oracle bones covered a wide range of concerns, including weather patterns, the timing of crop planting, the fortunes of royal family members, military campaigns, and the outcomes of rituals. They were essentially inquiries about anything important to the Shang ruling house.

Divination using oracle bones involved heating metal rods against the bone until it cracked.

Answer: True

The divination process entailed applying intense heat, typically with metal rods, to prepared areas of the bone or shell, inducing cracks that were subsequently interpreted as divine messages.

Related Concepts:

  • Describe the process of divination using oracle bones.: Diviners would inscribe questions onto cleaned and prepared bones or shells. Intense heat was then applied with a metal rod to specific points, causing the material to crack due to thermal expansion. The resulting pattern of cracks was then interpreted by the diviner to divine an answer.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

The 'preface' of an oracle bone inscription typically contained the diviner's prognostication.

Answer: False

The 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription typically recorded the date (using the sexagenary cycle) and the name of the diviner, while the prognostication was usually recorded separately or implied.

Related Concepts:

  • What information was recorded in the 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription?: The 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription typically recorded the date, using the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, along with the name of the diviner who performed the ceremony. This provided context for the divination.

A 'verification' in an oracle bone inscription refers to the initial question posed to the deities.

Answer: False

A 'verification' in oracle bone inscriptions refers to a rare addition that records the actual outcome or result of the divination, indicating whether the prognostication proved accurate, rather than the initial question.

Related Concepts:

  • What is a 'verification' in the context of oracle bone inscriptions?: A 'verification' is an addition made to an oracle bone inscription on very rare occasions, recording the actual outcome of the divination. This provided a record of whether the prognostication proved true.
  • What information was recorded in the 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription?: The 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription typically recorded the date, using the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, along with the name of the diviner who performed the ceremony. This provided context for the divination.
  • What kind of questions were typically submitted to deities via oracle bones?: Questions submitted to deities via oracle bones covered a wide range of concerns, including weather patterns, the timing of crop planting, the fortunes of royal family members, military campaigns, and the outcomes of rituals. They were essentially inquiries about anything important to the Shang ruling house.

What was the primary function of oracle bones in ancient China?

Answer: To ask questions to deities through divination.

The primary function of oracle bones was to serve as a medium for divination, enabling ancient Chinese rulers and priests to pose questions to deities and ancestral spirits.

Related Concepts:

  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • What kind of questions were typically submitted to deities via oracle bones?: Questions submitted to deities via oracle bones covered a wide range of concerns, including weather patterns, the timing of crop planting, the fortunes of royal family members, military campaigns, and the outcomes of rituals. They were essentially inquiries about anything important to the Shang ruling house.

How was the divination process conducted using oracle bones?

Answer: By applying heat to create cracks, which were then interpreted.

The divination process involved applying intense heat to prepared sections of the bone or shell, causing it to crack. The resulting patterns of these cracks were then interpreted by the diviner to ascertain the divine response.

Related Concepts:

  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • Describe the process of divination using oracle bones.: Diviners would inscribe questions onto cleaned and prepared bones or shells. Intense heat was then applied with a metal rod to specific points, causing the material to crack due to thermal expansion. The resulting pattern of cracks was then interpreted by the diviner to divine an answer.

What types of entities were often the focus of the 'charges' or topics of divination?

Answer: Ancestors, natural powers, and Di (the highest god).

The 'charges' or subjects of divination frequently addressed revered ancestors, manifestations of natural forces, and Di, the supreme deity in the Shang pantheon.

Related Concepts:

  • What types of entities were the 'charges' or topics of divination often directed towards?: The 'charges' or topics of divination were often directed towards ancestors, whom the ancient Chinese revered and worshiped. They were also addressed to natural powers and to Di (帝), the highest god in Shang society.

What information was typically recorded in the 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription?

Answer: The date (using Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches) and the diviner's name.

The 'preface' of an oracle bone inscription typically contained essential contextual information, namely the date of the divination, recorded using the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, and the name of the diviner.

Related Concepts:

  • What information was recorded in the 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription?: The 'preface' section of an oracle bone inscription typically recorded the date, using the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, along with the name of the diviner who performed the ceremony. This provided context for the divination.

What is a 'verification' in the context of oracle bone inscriptions?

Answer: A record of the actual outcome of the divination.

A 'verification' is an addition to an oracle bone inscription that documents the actual result of the divination, serving as a record of whether the prognostication proved accurate.

Related Concepts:

  • What is a 'verification' in the context of oracle bone inscriptions?: A 'verification' is an addition made to an oracle bone inscription on very rare occasions, recording the actual outcome of the divination. This provided a record of whether the prognostication proved true.

Oracle Bone Script: Characteristics and Significance

Oracle bone inscriptions contain approximately 5,000 distinct characters, many of which are still recognizable in modern Chinese.

Answer: True

The corpus of oracle bone inscriptions features a substantial number of distinct characters, estimated at around 5,000, with a significant portion exhibiting recognizable forms that persist in contemporary Chinese writing.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the significance of oracle bones in the study of ancient Chinese writing?: Oracle bones represent the earliest known significant corpus of ancient Chinese writing, featuring an early form of Chinese characters. Their study provides invaluable insights into the development of the Chinese writing system and the language itself.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • How many different characters are found on oracle bones, and what is their relation to modern Chinese?: The inscriptions contain around 5,000 different characters, many of which are still in use today. While the exact number is uncertain due to variations, specialists have identified over 1,200 characters with certainty, forming much of the core vocabulary of modern Chinese.

Oracle bone inscriptions primarily focused on philosophical debates and astronomical observations.

Answer: False

The content of oracle bone inscriptions predominantly concerned divinatory matters, including inquiries about weather, harvests, and royal affairs, rather than philosophical discourse or detailed astronomical records.

Related Concepts:

  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • What is the discipline dedicated to the study of oracle bones and their script called?: The discipline dedicated to the study of oracle bones and the oracle bone script is called oraculology. This field focuses on deciphering, interpreting, and understanding the content and context of these ancient inscriptions.

The discipline dedicated to studying oracle bones and their script is called oraculology.

Answer: True

The specialized academic field focused on the study, decipherment, and interpretation of oracle bones and their inscriptions is known as oraculology.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the discipline dedicated to the study of oracle bones and their script called?: The discipline dedicated to the study of oracle bones and the oracle bone script is called oraculology. This field focuses on deciphering, interpreting, and understanding the content and context of these ancient inscriptions.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.

The character 卜 (bǔ), meaning 'to divine,' might be a pictogram of a crack on an oracle bone.

Answer: True

Linguistic analysis suggests that the character 卜 (bǔ), which signifies 'to divine,' may have originated as a pictogram representing the characteristic cracks formed on oracle bones during the divination process.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the possible origin or meaning of the character representing a crack?: The character 卜 (bǔ), meaning 'to divine,' may be a pictogram of such a crack. Alternatively, its reading could be an onomatopoeia for the sound of the cracking bone.
  • What is the meaning of the Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文)?: The Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文) literally translate to 'shell and bone script.' This term refers to the writing found on oracle bones.

The Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文) translate to 'shell and bone script'.

Answer: True

The term 'jiaguwen' (甲骨文) is the standard Chinese designation for the script found on oracle bones, literally translating to 'shell and bone script'.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the meaning of the Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文)?: The Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文) literally translate to 'shell and bone script.' This term refers to the writing found on oracle bones.

What does the term 'jiaguwen' (甲骨文) literally translate to?

Answer: Shell and bone script

The Chinese term 'jiaguwen' (甲骨文) directly translates to 'shell and bone script,' referring to the writing system found on oracle bones.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the meaning of the Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文)?: The Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文) literally translate to 'shell and bone script.' This term refers to the writing found on oracle bones.

Discovery and Identification of Oracle Bones

Wang Yirong was the first person in modern times to recognize the markings on oracle bones as ancient Chinese writing.

Answer: True

Wang Yirong, a scholar and official, is widely credited as the first individual in modern times to identify the inscriptions on oracle bones as an ancient form of Chinese script, recognizing their connection to bronze inscriptions.

Related Concepts:

  • Who was the first person credited with recognizing the oracle bones' markings as ancient Chinese writing?: Wang Yirong, the chancellor of the Imperial Academy in Beijing, is believed to be the first person in modern times to recognize the markings on the oracle bones as ancient Chinese writing. He noted their similarity to inscriptions on Zhou dynasty bronzes.
  • What legendary tale describes the recognition of oracle bones by Wang Yirong and Liu E?: A legendary tale recounts that Wang Yirong, while ill, had his friend Liu E examine his medicine. They discovered strange glyphs on the bones, which they recognized as ancient writing due to their knowledge of bronze inscriptions.
  • Who discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang, and what did this reveal?: In 1908, scholar Luo Zhenyu discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang. This discovery revealed that the area was the site of the last Shang dynasty capital, known as Yin.

Antique dealers intentionally spread accurate information about the source of oracle bones to aid scholars.

Answer: False

Antique dealers intentionally disseminated misinformation regarding the provenance of oracle bones, claiming they originated from Tangyin in Henan province, in order to protect the actual discovery site near Anyang.

Related Concepts:

  • How did the market for oracle bones change after their discovery became known?: As news of the oracle bones' discovery spread, the market for them exploded. Many collectors sought to keep the location of their source a secret, while dealers profited from the increased demand.
  • What false information was spread about the source of the oracle bones by antique dealers?: To protect the actual source, antique dealers falsely claimed that the oracle bones came from Tangyin in Henan province. This misinformation misled scholars for a period.

Who is credited with being the first person in modern times to recognize the markings on oracle bones as ancient Chinese writing?

Answer: Wang Yirong

Wang Yirong, an antiquarian scholar, is credited with the pivotal recognition that the markings on oracle bones constituted an ancient form of Chinese writing.

Related Concepts:

  • Who was the first person credited with recognizing the oracle bones' markings as ancient Chinese writing?: Wang Yirong, the chancellor of the Imperial Academy in Beijing, is believed to be the first person in modern times to recognize the markings on the oracle bones as ancient Chinese writing. He noted their similarity to inscriptions on Zhou dynasty bronzes.
  • How were oracle bones initially discovered, and by whom?: Oracle bones are thought to have been unearthed occasionally by local farmers as early as the Sui and Tang dynasties, and perhaps even the Han dynasty. During the 19th century, villagers in the Anyang area discovered them while digging in fields.
  • Which institution traced the source of oracle bones to Anyang, and when?: The Institute of History and Philology, established by Fu Sinian at the Academia Sinica, traced the source of the oracle bones to modern Xiaotun village at Anyang in Henan. This occurred by 1928.

What false information did antique dealers spread about the origin of oracle bones?

Answer: That they came from Tangyin in Henan province.

To obscure the true archaeological significance of the Anyang site, antique dealers propagated the falsehood that the oracle bones originated from Tangyin in Henan province.

Related Concepts:

  • How did the market for oracle bones change after their discovery became known?: As news of the oracle bones' discovery spread, the market for them exploded. Many collectors sought to keep the location of their source a secret, while dealers profited from the increased demand.
  • What false information was spread about the source of the oracle bones by antique dealers?: To protect the actual source, antique dealers falsely claimed that the oracle bones came from Tangyin in Henan province. This misinformation misled scholars for a period.
  • How were oracle bones initially discovered, and by whom?: Oracle bones are thought to have been unearthed occasionally by local farmers as early as the Sui and Tang dynasties, and perhaps even the Han dynasty. During the 19th century, villagers in the Anyang area discovered them while digging in fields.

Which institution traced the source of oracle bones to Anyang by 1928?

Answer: The Institute of History and Philology at Academia Sinica

By 1928, the Institute of History and Philology, affiliated with Academia Sinica, successfully traced the provenance of the oracle bones to the Anyang region.

Related Concepts:

  • Which institution traced the source of oracle bones to Anyang, and when?: The Institute of History and Philology, established by Fu Sinian at the Academia Sinica, traced the source of the oracle bones to modern Xiaotun village at Anyang in Henan. This occurred by 1928.
  • How were oracle bones initially discovered, and by whom?: Oracle bones are thought to have been unearthed occasionally by local farmers as early as the Sui and Tang dynasties, and perhaps even the Han dynasty. During the 19th century, villagers in the Anyang area discovered them while digging in fields.
  • Who discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang, and what did this reveal?: In 1908, scholar Luo Zhenyu discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang. This discovery revealed that the area was the site of the last Shang dynasty capital, known as Yin.

Archaeological Context: Yinxu and Shang Dynasty

The discovery and decipherment of oracle bones provided conclusive evidence for the existence of the Xia dynasty.

Answer: False

While the decipherment of oracle bone inscriptions provided definitive proof for the existence and historical details of the Shang dynasty, conclusive evidence for the Xia dynasty remains a subject of ongoing scholarly debate and archaeological investigation.

Related Concepts:

  • What historical confirmation did the discovery and decipherment of oracle bones provide?: The decipherment of oracle bone inscriptions confirmed the existence of the Shang dynasty, whose historicity had been questioned by some scholars at the time. They also helped reconstruct the Shang royal genealogy and pinpoint the location of its last capital, Yin.
  • What did the inscriptions on oracle bones, along with royal-sized tombs, definitively prove about the Shang dynasty?: The inscriptions on oracle bones, combined with the discovery of royal-sized tombs, provided definitive proof of the existence of the Shang dynasty. This evidence also confirmed the location of its last capital, Yin, settling historical debates.
  • What is the significance of oracle bones in the study of ancient Chinese writing?: Oracle bones represent the earliest known significant corpus of ancient Chinese writing, featuring an early form of Chinese characters. Their study provides invaluable insights into the development of the Chinese writing system and the language itself.

The practice of using oracle bones for divination was most prevalent during the Neolithic period in China.

Answer: False

The practice of using inscribed oracle bones for divination was most significantly prevalent during the Late Shang period (circa 1250–1050 BCE), not the Neolithic period, although earlier forms of pyromancy existed.

Related Concepts:

  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • How were oracle bones initially discovered, and by whom?: Oracle bones are thought to have been unearthed occasionally by local farmers as early as the Sui and Tang dynasties, and perhaps even the Han dynasty. During the 19th century, villagers in the Anyang area discovered them while digging in fields.

The site near Anyang, identified as the last Shang capital, is known today as the Ruins of Yin or Yinxu.

Answer: True

The archaeological site located near Anyang, which has been identified as the final capital of the Shang dynasty, is indeed known by the designations Ruins of Yin or Yinxu.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the modern name for the site of the last Shang dynasty capital, Xiaotun at Anyang?: The modern name for the site of the last Shang dynasty capital, Xiaotun at Anyang, is the Ruins of Yin, also known as Yinxu. This name reflects its historical significance as the final seat of Shang power.
  • Who discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang, and what did this reveal?: In 1908, scholar Luo Zhenyu discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang. This discovery revealed that the area was the site of the last Shang dynasty capital, known as Yin.
  • What did the inscriptions on oracle bones, along with royal-sized tombs, definitively prove about the Shang dynasty?: The inscriptions on oracle bones, combined with the discovery of royal-sized tombs, provided definitive proof of the existence of the Shang dynasty. This evidence also confirmed the location of its last capital, Yin, settling historical debates.

Oracle bones were typically buried in pits designated for mixed materials after their use.

Answer: False

Following their ritualistic use, oracle bones were typically interred in specific pits, often segregated by material type (e.g., shells only, scapulae only), rather than being buried in mixed-material pits.

Related Concepts:

  • How were used oracle bones ritually disposed of after divination?: After use, oracle bones that had been ritually employed were buried in separate pits. Some pits were designated for shells only, while others were for scapulae only, often containing hundreds or thousands of pieces.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • What specific materials were used to create oracle bones?: The primary materials used for oracle bones were pieces of ox scapula (shoulder blade) and turtle plastron (the underside of the shell). Other animal bones and even human skulls were occasionally used, though less commonly.

The pit YH127 at Yinxu contained over 17,000 inscribed oracle bone pieces, highlighting the scale of divination practices.

Answer: True

The archaeological discovery of pit YH127 at Yinxu yielded an extraordinary collection of over 17,000 inscribed oracle bone fragments, underscoring the extensive scale of divination activities during the Shang dynasty.

Related Concepts:

  • What does the image of the oracle bone pit YH127 at Yinxu represent?: The image of the oracle bone pit YH127 at Yinxu represents a significant archaeological find. This pit alone contained over 17,000 inscribed oracle bone pieces, underscoring the scale of the Shang dynasty's divination practices.
  • To which period do the vast majority of inscribed oracle bones found at Yinxu date?: The vast majority of the inscribed oracle bones found at the Yinxu site date to the reigns of the last nine Shang kings. This period represents the height of the Shang dynasty's use of this divination practice.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

Which historical period is most strongly associated with the primary use of inscribed oracle bones?

Answer: The Late Shang period (c. 1250–1050 BCE)

The practice of inscribing oracle bones reached its zenith and is most strongly associated with the Late Shang period, specifically between approximately 1250 and 1050 BCE.

Related Concepts:

  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • What is Ken-ichi Takashima's estimated date for the earliest oracle bone inscriptions?: Ken-ichi Takashima dates the earliest oracle bone inscriptions to approximately 1230 BCE. This estimate is based on his analysis of character forms and syntax found in the inscriptions.

What significant historical confirmation did the decipherment of oracle bones provide?

Answer: Confirmation of the historicity of the Shang dynasty.

The decipherment of oracle bone inscriptions provided crucial and definitive confirmation of the historical existence of the Shang dynasty, settling long-standing scholarly debates about its reality.

Related Concepts:

  • What historical confirmation did the discovery and decipherment of oracle bones provide?: The decipherment of oracle bone inscriptions confirmed the existence of the Shang dynasty, whose historicity had been questioned by some scholars at the time. They also helped reconstruct the Shang royal genealogy and pinpoint the location of its last capital, Yin.
  • What did the inscriptions on oracle bones, along with royal-sized tombs, definitively prove about the Shang dynasty?: The inscriptions on oracle bones, combined with the discovery of royal-sized tombs, provided definitive proof of the existence of the Shang dynasty. This evidence also confirmed the location of its last capital, Yin, settling historical debates.
  • What is the significance of oracle bones in the study of ancient Chinese writing?: Oracle bones represent the earliest known significant corpus of ancient Chinese writing, featuring an early form of Chinese characters. Their study provides invaluable insights into the development of the Chinese writing system and the language itself.

The discovery of the true source of oracle bones near Anyang revealed it to be the site of what?

Answer: The last capital of the Shang dynasty.

The identification of the true source of oracle bones near Anyang confirmed it as the location of the final capital city of the Shang dynasty, known as Yin.

Related Concepts:

  • Who discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang, and what did this reveal?: In 1908, scholar Luo Zhenyu discovered the true source of the oracle bones near Anyang. This discovery revealed that the area was the site of the last Shang dynasty capital, known as Yin.
  • How were oracle bones initially discovered, and by whom?: Oracle bones are thought to have been unearthed occasionally by local farmers as early as the Sui and Tang dynasties, and perhaps even the Han dynasty. During the 19th century, villagers in the Anyang area discovered them while digging in fields.
  • Which institution traced the source of oracle bones to Anyang, and when?: The Institute of History and Philology, established by Fu Sinian at the Academia Sinica, traced the source of the oracle bones to modern Xiaotun village at Anyang in Henan. This occurred by 1928.

How were used oracle bones ritually disposed of after divination?

Answer: They were buried in separate pits designated for specific materials.

After their ritualistic use, oracle bones were typically disposed of by burial in designated pits, often segregated according to the material type, such as pits exclusively for shells or for scapulae.

Related Concepts:

  • How were used oracle bones ritually disposed of after divination?: After use, oracle bones that had been ritually employed were buried in separate pits. Some pits were designated for shells only, while others were for scapulae only, often containing hundreds or thousands of pieces.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.

Scholarly Contributions and Chronological Frameworks

Li Ji is recognized as the father of Chinese archaeology and led excavations at the Anyang oracle bone sites.

Answer: True

Li Ji is indeed regarded as the father of Chinese archaeology, and he played a pivotal role in leading the systematic excavations at the oracle bone sites near Anyang, significantly advancing the field.

Related Concepts:

  • Who is considered the father of Chinese archaeology and led official excavations of oracle bone sites?: Li Ji, often referred to as the father of Chinese archaeology, led the official archaeological excavations at the oracle bone sites near Anyang. His work significantly contributed to the understanding and collection of these artifacts.

James Mellon Menzies, a Canadian missionary, was the first to scientifically excavate and study oracle bones.

Answer: True

James Mellon Menzies, a Canadian missionary, is recognized for being among the first to conduct scientific excavations and rigorous studies of oracle bones, contributing significantly to their understanding and dating.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the role of James Mellon Menzies in the study of oracle bones?: James Mellon Menzies was a Canadian missionary who was the first to scientifically excavate, study, and decipher oracle bones. He was also the first to develop a method for dating them to avoid fakes and acquired a large private collection.

Dong Zuobin developed a chronological system for oracle bones based on the names of diviners.

Answer: True

Dong Zuobin is credited with developing a seminal chronological framework for oracle bone inscriptions, which he based on the identification and analysis of the names of the diviners recorded within the texts.

Related Concepts:

  • Who developed a system of five periods for dating oracle bones based on the names of diviners?: Dong Zuobin developed a system of five periods for dating oracle bones. This classification was based on the names of the diviners who performed the rituals, allowing for a chronological ordering of the inscriptions.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

Lunar eclipses mentioned in inscriptions have been used by scholars to establish an absolute chronology for the oracle bones.

Answer: True

Scholars have effectively utilized references to lunar eclipses within oracle bone inscriptions as astronomical markers to establish a more precise, absolute chronology for the Shang dynasty's divination records.

Related Concepts:

  • How have scholars attempted to establish an absolute chronology for the oracle bones?: Scholars have attempted to establish an absolute chronology for oracle bones by focusing on recorded lunar eclipses mentioned in inscriptions. By matching these records with calculated dates of eclipses, and assuming the continuity of the 60-day cycle, they can estimate specific dates.
  • What astronomical events are mentioned as being used for dating oracle bones?: Lunar eclipses are mentioned as astronomical events used for dating oracle bones. Specifically, inscriptions by the Bin group during Wu Ding's reign record eclipses that scholars have used to anchor the chronology.

David Keightley argued that the Book of Documents is a reliable source for dating Wu Ding's reign without qualification.

Answer: False

David Keightley critically examined the Book of Documents, arguing against its unqualified use for dating Wu Ding's reign due to its later composition and potential historical inaccuracies compared to oracle bone evidence.

Related Concepts:

  • What criticisms did David Keightley raise regarding the use of the Book of Documents for dating Wu Ding's reign?: David Keightley argued that the 'Against Luxurious Ease' chapter of the Book of Documents should not be treated as historical text for dating purposes. He noted it was composed later, presented reign lengths as moral judgments, and contained contradictions with oracle bone evidence.

Ken-ichi Takashima estimates the earliest oracle bone inscriptions date to around 1000 BCE.

Answer: False

Ken-ichi Takashima's scholarly analysis estimates the earliest oracle bone inscriptions to date to approximately 1230 BCE, not 1000 BCE.

Related Concepts:

  • What is Ken-ichi Takashima's estimated date for the earliest oracle bone inscriptions?: Ken-ichi Takashima dates the earliest oracle bone inscriptions to approximately 1230 BCE. This estimate is based on his analysis of character forms and syntax found in the inscriptions.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

The Jiaguwen Heji is a comprehensive catalogue of oracle bone fragments, co-edited by Hu Houxuan and Guo Moruo.

Answer: True

The Jiaguwen Heji is indeed recognized as a significant and comprehensive catalogue of oracle bone fragments, with its compilation notably co-edited by scholars Hu Houxuan and Guo Moruo.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the name of the most comprehensive catalogue of oracle bone fragments, and who edited it?: The most comprehensive catalogue of oracle bone fragments is the Jiaguwen Heji. It was edited by Hu Houxuan and Guo Moruo, with a supplement edited by Peng Bangjiong.
  • What is the meaning of the Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文)?: The Chinese characters jiaguwen (甲骨文) literally translate to 'shell and bone script.' This term refers to the writing found on oracle bones.

The oracle bone inscriptions from Qijia, Shaanxi, showed significant differences from those at Anyang, including the use of lunar phases for dating.

Answer: True

Inscriptions found at Qijia, Shaanxi, exhibit notable distinctions from those discovered at Anyang, such as the utilization of lunar phases as a dating mechanism and variations in vocabulary and preparation methods.

Related Concepts:

  • What unique characteristics distinguish the oracle bone inscriptions found at Qijia, Shaanxi, from those at Anyang?: The oracle bone inscriptions from Qijia, Shaanxi, are distinguished by differences in how the bones and shells were prepared and used, the smaller size of the characters, the presence of unique vocabulary, and the use of lunar phases as a dating device. These variations suggest regional or temporal differences in the practice.

What astronomical event is mentioned as being used by scholars to establish an absolute chronology for oracle bones?

Answer: Lunar eclipses

Scholars have employed records of lunar eclipses found within oracle bone inscriptions as critical astronomical data points for establishing an absolute chronology.

Related Concepts:

  • How have scholars attempted to establish an absolute chronology for the oracle bones?: Scholars have attempted to establish an absolute chronology for oracle bones by focusing on recorded lunar eclipses mentioned in inscriptions. By matching these records with calculated dates of eclipses, and assuming the continuity of the 60-day cycle, they can estimate specific dates.
  • What astronomical events are mentioned as being used for dating oracle bones?: Lunar eclipses are mentioned as astronomical events used for dating oracle bones. Specifically, inscriptions by the Bin group during Wu Ding's reign record eclipses that scholars have used to anchor the chronology.

David Keightley criticized the use of which text for dating Wu Ding's reign, citing its later composition and potential inaccuracies?

Answer: The Book of Documents

David Keightley specifically critiqued the reliability of the Book of Documents, particularly the chapter 'Against Luxurious Ease,' as a source for dating Wu Ding's reign due to its later composition and potential historical discrepancies.

Related Concepts:

  • What criticisms did David Keightley raise regarding the use of the Book of Documents for dating Wu Ding's reign?: David Keightley argued that the 'Against Luxurious Ease' chapter of the Book of Documents should not be treated as historical text for dating purposes. He noted it was composed later, presented reign lengths as moral judgments, and contained contradictions with oracle bone evidence.

What is the estimated date for the earliest oracle bone inscriptions according to Ken-ichi Takashima?

Answer: Approximately 1230 BCE

Ken-ichi Takashima's research posits that the earliest oracle bone inscriptions can be dated to approximately 1230 BCE.

Related Concepts:

  • What is Ken-ichi Takashima's estimated date for the earliest oracle bone inscriptions?: Ken-ichi Takashima dates the earliest oracle bone inscriptions to approximately 1230 BCE. This estimate is based on his analysis of character forms and syntax found in the inscriptions.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

Which of the following is a characteristic difference noted for oracle bone inscriptions found at Qijia, Shaanxi?

Answer: Use of lunar phases for dating and unique vocabulary.

Oracle bone inscriptions from Qijia, Shaanxi, are noted for differences such as the utilization of lunar phases for dating purposes and the presence of unique vocabulary, distinguishing them from the Anyang corpus.

Related Concepts:

  • What unique characteristics distinguish the oracle bone inscriptions found at Qijia, Shaanxi, from those at Anyang?: The oracle bone inscriptions from Qijia, Shaanxi, are distinguished by differences in how the bones and shells were prepared and used, the smaller size of the characters, the presence of unique vocabulary, and the use of lunar phases as a dating device. These variations suggest regional or temporal differences in the practice.
  • What is the significance of oracle bones in the study of ancient Chinese writing?: Oracle bones represent the earliest known significant corpus of ancient Chinese writing, featuring an early form of Chinese characters. Their study provides invaluable insights into the development of the Chinese writing system and the language itself.

Evolution and Decline of the Practice

The Shang dynasty kings began performing divinations personally only in the earliest periods of their rule.

Answer: False

Historical analysis indicates that Shang dynasty kings began performing divinations personally primarily during the later periods of their rule, rather than the earliest.

Related Concepts:

  • Who typically performed divinations during the Shang dynasty, and when did the kings begin to do so personally?: Divinations were typically carried out for the Shang kings in the presence of a diviner. By the latest periods of the Shang dynasty, the kings themselves took over the role of diviner personally.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • To which period do the vast majority of inscribed oracle bones found at Yinxu date?: The vast majority of the inscribed oracle bones found at the Yinxu site date to the reigns of the last nine Shang kings. This period represents the height of the Shang dynasty's use of this divination practice.

Later divinations during the Shang dynasty became more complex and focused on detailed historical analysis.

Answer: False

Scholarly observations suggest that later divinations during the Shang dynasty tended to become more perfunctory and optimistic, often performed by the king himself, rather than increasing in complexity or focusing on detailed historical analysis.

Related Concepts:

  • Who typically performed divinations during the Shang dynasty, and when did the kings begin to do so personally?: Divinations were typically carried out for the Shang kings in the presence of a diviner. By the latest periods of the Shang dynasty, the kings themselves took over the role of diviner personally.
  • How did later divinations, as observed by Keightley, differ from those during Wu Ding's reign?: Later divinations tended to be more perfunctory, optimistic, and often performed by the king himself. They were frequently addressed to ancestors on a regular cycle and were less likely to ask the ancestors for specific actions, reflecting a shift in beliefs about divine influence.
  • To which period do the vast majority of inscribed oracle bones found at Yinxu date?: The vast majority of the inscribed oracle bones found at the Yinxu site date to the reigns of the last nine Shang kings. This period represents the height of the Shang dynasty's use of this divination practice.

The earliest evidence of pyromancy involving bones in China, found in Liaoning, included inscribed writing.

Answer: False

The earliest evidence of pyromancy involving bones in China, dating to the 4th millennium BCE in Liaoning, utilized animal scapulae but did not feature inscribed writing, distinguishing it from later Shang oracle bones.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the earliest evidence of pyromancy involving bones in China, and was it inscribed?: The earliest evidence of pyromancy involving bones in China dates back to the 4th millennium BCE in Liaoning. These early practices used scapulae of various animals, but they were not inscribed with writing.
  • What legendary tale describes the recognition of oracle bones by Wang Yirong and Liu E?: A legendary tale recounts that Wang Yirong, while ill, had his friend Liu E examine his medicine. They discovered strange glyphs on the bones, which they recognized as ancient writing due to their knowledge of bronze inscriptions.

By which period did the Shang kings themselves begin to personally perform divinations?

Answer: The late Shang period

The practice of Shang dynasty kings personally conducting divinations became more common during the later phases of the dynasty.

Related Concepts:

  • Who typically performed divinations during the Shang dynasty, and when did the kings begin to do so personally?: Divinations were typically carried out for the Shang kings in the presence of a diviner. By the latest periods of the Shang dynasty, the kings themselves took over the role of diviner personally.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.
  • To which period do the vast majority of inscribed oracle bones found at Yinxu date?: The vast majority of the inscribed oracle bones found at the Yinxu site date to the reigns of the last nine Shang kings. This period represents the height of the Shang dynasty's use of this divination practice.

How did later divinations, according to Keightley's observations, tend to differ from those during Wu Ding's reign?

Answer: They were more perfunctory, optimistic, and often performed by the king.

Keightley's observations indicate that divinations in later Shang periods were generally more perfunctory and optimistic, frequently conducted directly by the king, contrasting with the practices during Wu Ding's reign.

Related Concepts:

  • How did later divinations, as observed by Keightley, differ from those during Wu Ding's reign?: Later divinations tended to be more perfunctory, optimistic, and often performed by the king himself. They were frequently addressed to ancestors on a regular cycle and were less likely to ask the ancestors for specific actions, reflecting a shift in beliefs about divine influence.
  • Who typically performed divinations during the Shang dynasty, and when did the kings begin to do so personally?: Divinations were typically carried out for the Shang kings in the presence of a diviner. By the latest periods of the Shang dynasty, the kings themselves took over the role of diviner personally.

What distinguishes the earliest evidence of pyromancy involving bones in China (4th millennium BCE, Liaoning) from the Shang oracle bones?

Answer: The earliest evidence did not involve inscriptions.

The primary distinction lies in the presence of writing; the earliest evidence of pyromancy in Liaoning (4th millennium BCE) involved bones but lacked inscriptions, unlike the later, inscribed oracle bones of the Shang dynasty.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the earliest evidence of pyromancy involving bones in China, and was it inscribed?: The earliest evidence of pyromancy involving bones in China dates back to the 4th millennium BCE in Liaoning. These early practices used scapulae of various animals, but they were not inscribed with writing.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.

What methods are thought to have supplanted pyromancy, contributing to the decline of inscribed oracle bones?

Answer: Numerological divination using milfoil (yarrow) and the I Ching.

It is theorized that divination methods such as numerological practices involving milfoil (yarrow) and the I Ching gradually supplanted pyromancy, leading to the decline in the use of inscribed oracle bones.

Related Concepts:

  • What methods are thought to have supplanted pyromancy, leading to the decline of inscribed oracle bones?: It is thought that other methods of divination, such as numerological divination using milfoil (yarrow) in connection with the hexagrams of the I Ching, supplanted pyromancy. This shift contributed to the decline in the use of inscribed oracle bones.
  • What are oracle bones and what was their primary purpose in ancient China?: Oracle bones are pieces of ox scapula and turtle plastron that were used in pyromancy, a form of divination, during the Late Shang period in ancient China (c. 1250–1050 BCE). Their primary purpose was to ask questions to deities regarding matters such as weather, agriculture, and royal family fortunes.
  • During which historical period were oracle bones primarily used for divination?: Oracle bones were primarily used for divination during the Late Shang period in ancient China, specifically from approximately 1250 to 1050 BCE. While the practice continued into the Zhou dynasty, the most significant corpus of inscribed oracle bones dates to the Shang era.

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