Himyarite Kingdom
The Himyarite Kingdom was an ancient state located in the southern highlands of Yemen. It emerged as an independent kingdom around 110 BCE after separating from the Qatabanian kingdom. The Himyarites initially ruled from Zafar and later moved their capital to Sana'a in the 5th century CE.[1][2]
Kingdom of Himyar 𐩢𐩣𐩺𐩧 (Himyaritic) Himyarite Kingdom | |
|---|---|
| 110 BCE–525 CE | |
| Status | Kingdom |
| Capital | Zafar, later Sana'a |
| Other languages | Ḥimyarite |
| Religion | South Arabian polytheism, Judaism (after 390 CE), Christianity (after 500 CE) |
| Government | Monarchy |
| Historical era | Antiquity |
• Established | 110 BCE |
• Disestablished | 525 CE |
| Currency | Drachma |
History
changeThe Himyarite Kingdom expanded its territory by conquering neighboring regions, including Saba' around 25 BCE, Qataban around 200 CE, and Haḍramaut around 300 CE. It was a significant center for trade, linking the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and India. The kingdom's wealth was based on trade, particularly in frankincense and myrrh.[3]
Religion
changeThe Himyarites originally practiced South Arabian polytheism. By the late 4th century CE, Judaism became the state religion, followed by Christianity after 500 CE. The kingdom fell to the Kingdom of Aksum in 530 CE.
References
change- ↑ "Himyar | Kingdom, Religion, & Language | Britannica". www.britannica.com. Retrieved 2024-09-12.
- ↑ http://www.haaretz.com/jewish/archaeology/.premium-1.709010
- ↑ Johnson, Scott Fitzgerald (2012-11). The Oxford Handbook of Late Antiquity. OUP USA. ISBN 978-0-19-533693-1.
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