Divine Succession Determination Through Ritual

A method for selecting an heir among multiple candidates with equal legitimacy by using divine indication.

Overview

When a ruler has multiple favored sons with no clear heir, use a ritual to let divine will determine succession while maintaining the appearance of fairness.

Steps

1. Prepare the ritual space

   • Set up an altar for worshiping the gods
   • Secretly bury a jade bi (ceremonial disc) in the chamber floor

2. Summon the candidates

   • Have all potential heirs fast and purify themselves
   • Bring them into the chamber together

3. Observe their positions

   • Watch where each candidate stands or sits relative to the hidden bi
   • The one who positions themselves directly over the bi's knot is the chosen one

4. Interpret the signs

   • Physical contact with the bi indicates divine selection
   • Different positions (straddling, elbow resting, standing far) each have meaning

5. Record and implement

   • The result becomes the basis for succession
   • The divine mandate provides legitimacy

Historical Example

King Gong of Chu had five favored sons. He buried a jade bi and had them enter. The eldest (Kang) straddled it; the second (Ling) rested his elbow on it; two stood far away; the youngest (Ping) was carried over it and bowed, pressing on the bi's knot. Each outcome predicted their fate—the youngest ultimately succeeded.

Expected Outcome

A succession decision with divine legitimacy that reduces conflict among claimants.

Verification

1. Confirm that the ritual space was prepared with the hidden jade bi before candidates were summoned, ensuring no candidate had prior knowledge.
2. Validate that all candidates underwent the same purification and fasting process before entering the chamber.
3. Check that the positional interpretation (straddling, elbow resting, bowing on the knot) is consistently applied across all candidates.