Uncovering a Tablet in an Unknown Language: A Breakthrough in Ancient Near Eastern Studies (Patreon)

In this episode of Digital Hammurabi, Dr. Daniel Schwemer, an expert in magic and witchcraft in the Ancient Near East, joins Megan to discuss the recent excavation at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of  Boğazköy-Hattuša. The focus of the conversation is on a tablet written  in a previously unknown language that was discovered during the excavation. Dr. Schwemer shares his journey into the study of the  Ancient Near East and how he became involved in the excavations at  Boğazköy-Hattuša. Tune in to learn more about this fascinating discovery  and its implications for our understanding of the ancient world.

Detailed Synopsis:
Dr. Schwemer, an expert in magic and witchcraft in the Ancient Near East, has published extensively on the subject and serves as the epigraphist for the archaeological excavation at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Boğazköy-Hattuša in Turkey. The podcast episode primarily focuses on the excavation's findings, particularly a tablet written in an unknown language.

During the archaeological excavation at Boğazköy-Hattuša, a workman discovered a tablet written in an unknown language. As the epigraphist on the excavation, Dr. Schwemer is responsible for the initial recording and transliteration of the cuneiform script on the tablet upon excavation.

This tablet dates back to the 13th century. The Hittite label identifies the tablet as recording a ritual text from Kalashma, but the ritual has yet to be translated. It also remains unclear to what extent the language was spoken by the people of Kalashma during that time.

This discovery holds significant importance as it provides new insights into the history of the Ancient East, particularly from the perspective of the Hittite Empire. Once fully deciphered, the tablet's inscription could shed light on the religious practices of regional Hittie religion. However, further research is necessary to fully comprehend the language and its significance within the context of the Hittite Empire.

In the podcast episode, Dr. Schwemer also delves into different areas of study within the field of the Ancient Near East, with a particular focus on religion. Religion played a crucial role in ancient societies in the region, closely intertwined with the state, often with the king serving as the highest priest. Also included in the corpus of texts from Hattuša are ritual instructional texts, which provide guidance on performing temple cults, a significant religious practice. These texts outline specific rituals and ceremonies to be carried out during various festivals throughout the year. Additionally, there were rituals aimed at healing, warding off demons, and other therapeutic purposes.

The Hittites recorded religious practices not only in their own language but also in Hattic, Hurrian, Palaic, Luwian, and Akkadian. These texts often contain recitations or songs that reflect religious traditions predating the arrival of the Hittites.