A Study on the contents of Zhanci in 『Yinxu Huayuanzhuang Dongdi Jiagu』

A notable distinction emerges between oracle bone inscriptions from the 'Huadong' collection and those of the 'Binzu' group, revealing unique predictive focuses. The study analyzed 58 oracle bone inscriptions containing Zhanci (fortune-telling) content, categorizing them into six themes: hunting, ancestral rites, reign, anxiety, weather, and royal activities. Unlike the 'Binzu' group, which prioritizes determining good or bad luck, the 'Huadong' inscriptions center on realizing Mingci (command phrases). The research also highlights a particular emphasis on hunting in 'Zi's predictions, especially during the third and fifth periods of the Huang group, suggesting a specialized interest. By examining conditional and negative predictions, the study clarifies how 'Zi' infers specific outcomes from Mingci.

(Ed.). (2023). A Study on the contents of Zhanci in 『Yinxu Huayuanzhuang Dongdi Jiagu』. Korea Journal of Chinese Linguistics, 105, 249–278. https://doi.org/10.38068/kjcl.105.10