Researching The Origin Of Consanguineous Ancestors Adoration From Oracle Inscription Of The Shang Dynasty

Ancestors adoration was the main form of primitive religious belief. Totem, natural objects and consanguineous ancestors were all regarded as "ancestor" by primitive clans. Consanguineous ancestors, however, were never basic unit in sacrificing in early stage, it can be found from oracle inscription of the Shang Dynasty that totemism and naturism were extremely prevail for a time. Investigating its cause, historical materialism held that social material mode of production determined spiritual level of development, so backward productive forces in early stage of Shang Dynasty also decided backward culture and religious consciousness. Trace of primitive religion development was from totemism and naturism to consanguineous ancestors adoration. Cultural character in early stage of Shang Dynasty was worship of God, humane spirit wasn't evolved yet, so overwhelmingly totemistic and natural gods were solemnly sacrificed, consanguineous ancestors were only their accessory. By the time late stage came, productive forces developed and monarchical power strengthened had spured humane spirit to evolve; In religion realm, Zhouji System was set up, consanguineous ancestors adoration gradually flourished and then substituted for gods as the main part in sacrificing.