the shang and zhou documents

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…their overthrowing of the Shang culture). The Mandate states that a heaven chooses and empowers a ruler with the right to rule on the condition that he is righteous and wise in his handlings of administrative duties as well as in his treatment of his subjects (as well as practicing religion devotedly). However, if the leader violates these conditions, heaven will take away his right to rule by giving power to a new ruling family.