The Gracious Gods and the Royal Ideology of Ugarit

Abstract

<p>This dissertation presents a new interpretation of the enigmatic Ugaritic text CTA 23. This study is supported by a critical transliteration and translation of the text, together with detailed textual and philological notes. A history of interpretation is included to indicate both areas of consensus and of disagreement concerning the meaning and purpose of the text.</p> <p>The study indicates that CTA 23 must be understood in the context of the ancient Ugaritic concept of kingship. It substantiates this perspective by demonstrating that there are numerous points of contact between CTA 23 and the royal ideology reflected in the epic texts from Ras Shamra. Like the kings and royal progeny in the legends of Keret and Aqhat, the ᵓilm nᶜmm are the offspring of deities and are nursed by goddesses. These gods, who are invoked and honoured in the text, are identified with princes. The interest shown in the circumstances of their birth indicates that the text and its underlying ritual served as a royal apologia. The solicitude for royal parents and offspring that is reflected in CTA 23 suggests that the text's Sitz im Leben was a royal liturgy designed to ensure the well-being of royal figures.</p>