Shang Ti

The earth was represented as a mother goddess, who bore the plants and animals procreated by Shang Ti.

The people could not worship Shang Ti, for to do so would imply a familiarity or a claim of relationship punishable with death.

Shang Ti was worshipped by the emperor and his family as their ancestor, or the head of the hierarchy of their ancestors.

Shang Ti had cautioned him never to absent himself without his permission.

Ever since their appearance in history the Chinese have had their belief in Shang-ti, in spirits, and in natural agencies.