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The Mandate of Heaven
Does the Chinese Communist Party have it?
The Mandate of Heaven is a Chinese concept. It states there can only be one legitimate ruler of China, and that he rules under the approval of the gods.
The concept dates back to the Zhou Dynasty, which overthrew the Shang Dynasty in 1046 BC. The change in regime saw a transition from the worship of Shangdi (Celestial Lord) to that of Tian (heaven). The idea of a Mandate of Heaven followed, perhaps being used by the Zhou to justify their actions.
Under the concept, a ruler was “The Son of Heaven” and had legitimacy thanks to being shown favor by the gods. However, the gods can be fickle — just as they granted him power, they could take it away.
Signs that a ruler had lost the Mandate of Heaven included not only defeat due to war or rebellion, but also natural disasters such as famines and floods.
How is this relevant today?
Currently, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) rules China.
There have been several signs that the party does not have diving blessing, such as the devastating famine that occurred during Mao’s Great Leap Forward. This was estimated to have killed up to 40 million people.
