Shang Dynasty — 商朝
Shāng Cháo · c. 1600–1046 BCE
Key Facts
- Dynasty
- Shang Dynasty (商朝, Shāng Cháo)
- Period
- c. 1600–1046 BCE
- Capital
- Yin (Anyang)
- Notable for
- Oracle bone script (Jiaguwen)
The Shang dynasty produced the earliest confirmed Chinese writing — oracle bone inscriptions used for divination by heating tortoise shells and ox scapulae. These Jiaguwen records are the direct ancestor of the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches used in BaZi today. Shang bronze ritual vessels (ding) represent the pinnacle of early Chinese metallurgy and ceremonial culture.
Capital & Period
Key Contributions
The Shang Dynasty made lasting contributions to Chinese zodiac, calendar, and metaphysical traditions:
- Oracle bone script (Jiaguwen)
- Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches origin
- Bronze ritual vessel culture
Frequently Asked Questions
The Shang Dynasty (商朝, Shāng Cháo) spanned c. 1600–1046 BCE, with its capital at Yin (Anyang).
The Shang Dynasty's major contributions include: Oracle bone script (Jiaguwen); Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches origin; Bronze ritual vessel culture.
Discussion
Sign in with GitHub to join the conversation.