Shang Dynasty Divination: Oracle Bones and Ancient Foretelling

During the Shang dynasty, people used oracle bones to predict the future, make important decisions, and communicate with the divine. Oracle bones were animal bones or tortoise shells that were inscribed with questions or concerns. These bones were then heated until they cracked, and the resulting cracks were interpreted by diviners as answers to the questions. This form of divination was an important part of Shang religious and political life.