Shang Religion
Oracle bones, such as the one shown to the left, were a common tool used in Shang religion. Its main purpose was to help people predict the future, answer question, and communicate with past ancestors. For example, if people wanted to know if they will have a son or if it will rain soon, they would use oracle bones to communicate with deceased ancestors who would answer the questions and predict the future.
The Chinese practiced a polytheistic religion that is composed of multiple gods that controlled different aspects of the surrounding world. Above these gods ruled a supreme god, Shangdi (the guy in the picture to the right). To these gods the Chinese made offerings and animal sacrifices to "feed" the gods to keep them strong.
Along with gods and Shangdi, people of the Shang dynasty also worshiped their ancestors. They often built alters for them and made offerings as they would to the gods, thus they held equal respect for them. They believed the dead moved to the next world and continue to watch over the living, because of this they had serious burial as well as tombs. Some Shang dynasty emperors were buried with their servants who were to serve through life and death.
Social Order of Society
In Shang society most peasants were farmers working in fatms and rice patties (as shown below) which, surprisingly, were not at the bottom of the social classes. Amongst all the trades lumberjacks, street performers, and merchants were actually considered the lowest according the social classes. The daily lives of people were greatly influenced by their religion due the fact that they often acted upon what was foretold by the oracle bones.