The Mandate of Heaven

The Mandate of Heaven is an ancient Chinese belief that divine approval grants a ruler the right to govern. If a ruler acts justly and maintains harmony, heaven supports their reign. If they become corrupt or fail to serve the people’s well-being, the mandate can be withdrawn, justifying rebellion or change. This concept provided a moral framework for political legitimacy, emphasizing that authority depends on virtue and good governance rather than divine descent alone. It has historically been used to justify the rise and fall of dynasties, underscoring the importance of moral leadership.