Oracle bone script

Definition

Oracle bone script is one of the earliest forms of Chinese writing, primarily used during the Shang dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BCE) for divination purposes. This script was inscribed on turtle shells and animal bones, serving as a medium for communicating with ancestral spirits and deities. The significance of oracle bone script lies in its role as a historical record of early Chinese civilization and its contribution to the development of Chinese characters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oracle bone script is the oldest known form of Chinese writing and provides valuable insights into early Chinese culture, religion, and society.
2. The inscriptions typically contained questions posed to ancestors or deities, followed by the outcomes of these inquiries, which were crucial for decision-making in the Shang dynasty.
3. These inscriptions reveal not only divination practices but also details about warfare, agriculture, weather, and royal family events, contributing to our understanding of ancient life.
4. Oracle bones were often heated until they cracked; the patterns formed by the cracks were interpreted as answers to the questions inscribed on them.
5. The study of oracle bone script has played a vital role in deciphering the origins of Chinese characters and understanding the evolution of written language in China.

Review Questions

• How does oracle bone script contribute to our understanding of Shang dynasty culture and society?
  • Oracle bone script offers deep insights into Shang dynasty culture by revealing practices related to divination, governance, and social structure. The inscriptions found on oracle bones not only reflect religious beliefs and ancestral worship but also document historical events, agricultural practices, and military campaigns. This script serves as a crucial primary source for historians studying early Chinese civilization.
• Analyze the relationship between oracle bone script and the development of later Chinese writing systems.
  • Oracle bone script is foundational for the evolution of Chinese writing systems, as it represents an early stage in the formation of characters that would develop over time into modern Chinese. The characters found in oracle bone inscriptions laid the groundwork for later scripts, showing how writing began as a practical tool for communication and record-keeping. The transition from oracle bone script to seal script illustrates this development process in written language.
• Evaluate the significance of oracle bone script in the broader context of ancient writing systems worldwide.
  • Oracle bone script holds significant value not just within Chinese history but also in the context of ancient writing systems globally. Its emergence parallels other early forms of writing such as cuneiform and hieroglyphics, highlighting the universal human need for communication and record-keeping. The study of oracle bone script enriches our understanding of how civilizations developed writing independently while also reflecting their unique cultural practices and beliefs.

Related terms

Shang Dynasty:

The Shang dynasty was an early Chinese dynasty known for its advanced bronze casting, development of writing systems, and establishment of a stratified society.

Divination:

Divination is a practice used to gain insight or guidance from supernatural forces, often involving methods like reading bones or interpreting signs.

Chinese Characters:

Chinese characters are logograms used in the writing of Chinese and other languages; they evolved from earlier scripts like oracle bone script.