Zhou rulers claimed that they had won theandate of Heaven because they

Answer 1

Zhou rulers claimed that they had won the Mandate of Heaven because they believed that they had received divine approval to govern. This concept was used to justify their overthrow of the Shang dynasty, asserting that the Shang had become corrupt and oppressive, thus losing favor with the heavens. The Zhou emphasized the importance of virtuous rulership and moral governance, arguing that they would rule justly and promote the welfare of the people, thus maintaining their mandate. Additionally, the Mandate of Heaven provided a political framework that allowed for the legitimacy of rebellion if the ruling dynasty failed to fulfill its duties to the people, further solidifying the Zhou’s claim to power.