Translate the following words to Chinese:

Title: The Ancestor Gods in Oracle-Bone Inscriptions: Reasons and Impacts of their Protective Roles

Abstract

This paper discusses the reasons and impacts of the protective roles of ancestor gods in Chinese oracle-bone inscriptions. We examine the reasons behind their protective roles—filial piety, natural disasters and warfare— and analyze the impacts brought by their presence in the lives of their offspring, such as social stability, cultivation of virtues and the establishment of cultural identity. By referring to 20 references, we demonstrate the significance of these gods in ancient China and their influence on shaping the Chinese worldview.

Introduction

Oracle-bone inscriptions, the earliest form of Chinese writing, provide important insights into early Chinese culture and religion. At the heart of this ancient religious system were the ancestor gods, who were thought to provide a protective and nurturing influence on their living descendants. This study discusses the reasons and impacts of these protective roles, with evidence from oracle-bone inscriptions and related literature.

Reasons for Ancestor Gods’ Protective Roles

1. Filial Piety

One of the most fundamental virtues observed in ancient China was filial piety, as mentioned in writings such as the “Classic of Filial Piety” (孝经) and “Records of the Grand Historian” (史记). (Reference 1, 2) Filial piety emphasized the importance of showing respect and devotion toward one’s parents, grandparents, and ancestors. The protective roles of ancestor gods in the lives of their descendants can, therefore, be seen as a reflection of real-life parental expectations and responsibilities. (Reference 3)

2. Natural Disasters and Warfare

Ancient China was plagued by various natural disasters, such as floods, famine, and drought, which were believed to have been brought about by the displeasure of gods and spirits. (Reference 4) In this context, the protection offered by ancestor gods in oracle-bone inscriptions can be seen as an attempt to appease divine forces and ensure the safety and well-being of the community. Moreover, warfare was ubiquitous in ancient China, and ancestral protection was deemed essential for the security of the kingdom. (Reference 5)

Impacts of Ancestor Gods’ Protective Roles

1. Social Stability

The belief in ancestral protection played a key role in maintaining social order and stability. Ancestor gods were seen as a powerful force in shaping the destiny of their descendants, and obedience to their will was thought to help maintain social harmony. (Reference 6)

2. Cultivation of Virtues

The protective roles of ancestor gods acted as a source of moral guidance for the living, encouraging the practice of virtues such as filial piety and loyalty. By fostering values grounded in love, respect, and devotion to the ancestors, the protective relations with ancestor gods contributed to the moral development of the individual and the society as a whole. (Reference 7)

3. Establishment of Cultural Identity

The ancestor gods played a crucial role in the formation of the unique cultural identity in ancient China. (Reference 8) As documented in oracle-bone inscriptions, the homage paid to ancestor gods was linked with the belief that the dead became deities in the afterlife, and the living needed their assistance to ensure prosperity and protection. By incorporating ancestor worship into their worldview, they laid the foundation for an enduring cultural tradition in Chinese society. (Reference 9)

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated the reasons and impacts of the protective roles of ancestor gods in Chinese oracle-bone inscriptions. By honoring and seeking protection from their ancestor gods, ancient Chinese established a system of values and beliefs that shaped their society, culture, and history in significant ways. The presence of ancestor gods in the lives of their offspring helped foster virtues, social stability, and a unique cultural identity that still resonates in contemporary Chinese culture. (Reference 10)