In the concept of the Mandate of Heaven, which historically applied to Chinese dynasties, the order of gaining and losing power follows a specific pattern:
1. **Gaining Power:**
- A new dynasty gains power by successfully overthrowing the existing ruling dynasty. This could happen through military conquest, rebellion, or other means. The victorious dynasty is believed to have received the Mandate of Heaven, a divine approval or blessing, to rule.
2. **Legitimacy and Rule:**
- The new dynasty rules with the perceived approval of the Mandate of Heaven. It is believed that the rulers maintain their legitimacy as long as they govern justly, maintain social harmony, and provide effective leadership.
3. **Prosperity and Stability:**
- As long as the ruling dynasty is successful in maintaining peace, prosperity, and stability, it is considered to have the Mandate of Heaven. Good governance is seen as evidence that the rulers are fulfilling their divine mandate.
4. **Loss of Power:**
- If a dynasty faces natural disasters, social unrest, military failures, or other significant challenges, these are interpreted as signs that the rulers have lost the Mandate of Heaven.
5. **Rebellion or Conquest:**
- A loss of the Mandate of Heaven opens the door for rebellion or conquest by another faction or dynasty. When a ruling dynasty is perceived as having failed in its duties, a new power can emerge to overthrow it.
6. **Cyclical Nature:**
- The concept of the Mandate of Heaven suggests a cyclical nature in Chinese dynastic history, where new dynasties rise to power, rule, and, if they fail, are replaced by others. This cycle continues throughout Chinese history.
The Mandate of Heaven served as a political and religious justification for the rise and fall of dynasties in ancient China, offering a way to explain transitions in power based on the perceived will of divine forces.