Oracle Bone
Pieces of ox scapula or turtle plastron, which were used for pyromancy in ancient China
Real World Example
Oracle bones were used in ancient China for a form of divination called pyromancy, where priests would inscribe questions on bones or shells and then interpret the cracks formed by heating them. These bones are significant because they represent one of the earliest forms of Chinese writing and provide insights into the culture, beliefs, and daily life of the Shang Dynasty. They were believed to communicate with ancestors and gods, guiding decisions on matters like harvests, battles, and royal affairs. Today, the importance of seeking guidance and making informed decisions is still relevant; for example, people often consult experts or data before making significant life choices, like choosing a career. This shows that the human desire to predict and prepare for the future, as seen with oracle bones, continues to resonate in modern society.
