Source A: Excerpt from a Shang Dynasty historian

'Oracle bones were used by Shang rulers to seek guidance from ancestors and gods. These bones, usually turtle shells or cattle scapulas, contained inscriptions that recorded questions about warfare, weather, and crops. The practice was central to Shang religion and governance.'

Provenance: Modern historian summarizing Shang divination practices.

Source B: Archaeological analysis of oracle bones

'The Shang used oracle bones primarily because they believed the bones could reveal the will of ancestors and gods, helping them make important decisions. This practice also reinforced the king’s religious authority.'

Provenance: Archaeological report based on excavated oracle bones.

Source C: Description of the divination process

'The process involved inscribing a question onto a turtle shell or scapula, applying heat until it cracked, and then interpreting the patterns of cracks to find answers from the ancestors or gods.'

Provenance: Scholarly explanation based on archaeological findings.

Source D: Modern analysis of Shang society

'The use of oracle bones had significant consequences, including strengthening the political and religious authority of the king, shaping societal decisions, and encouraging a focus on the spiritual realm over empirical observation.'

Provenance: Modern scholarly interpretation of ancient Chinese society.