Mandate of heaven
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The Mandate of Heaven is the determining factor on whether or not the emperor of China is fit to rule. Possessing the Mandate of Heaven grants the right to remain emperor. If the Mandate is lost, than the right to rule is lost. This occurs if the ruler is not just or there is not order. If it is lost, then the subjects have an obligation to revolt. As well, environmental events such as earthquakes, floods, droughts, and famine. The Mandate of Heaven is the "divine right" to rule.
Lena Musallam
Sources:
Manual http://asianhistory.about.com/od/ancientchina/f/What-Is-The-Mandate-Of-Heaven.htm
