The Mandate of Heaven is a philosophical and political concept in Chinese history that originated during the Zhou Dynasty (c. 1046–256 BCE). It suggests that the Emperor's right to rule is granted by heaven and is contingent upon the ruler's ability to govern wisely and justly. If a ruler becomes tyrannical or fails to fulfill their duties, they may lose the Mandate, leading to the belief that they could be overthrown or replaced.
The concept was used to justify the rise and fall of dynasties in China, making it a critical element of Chinese political theory. Notable rulers who claimed the Mandate of Heaven include King Wen of Zhou, who is credited with establishing the Zhou Dynasty, and numerous emperors throughout Chinese history who maintained that their legitimacy derived from this divine approval.