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Title: Die Zame Hymne und der Herrschaftsanspruch von Uruk-Kulaba
Author(s): KEETMAN, Jan
Journal: Bibliotheca Orientalis
Volume: 80    Issue: 3-4   Date: 2023   
Pages: 239-262
DOI: 10.2143/BIOR.80.3.3292951

Abstract :
In this review article to the pioneering interpretation of the so called 'Zame Hymns' by Krebernik and Lisman we argue that the text is better seen as only one hymn, not as a collection of hymns. We suggest that this hymn, which was found in Tell Abū Ṣalābīḫ was most probably composed in Uruk, except the last part concerning Lisi(n). The text is promoting the narrative that the En of Uruk-Kulaba is the predominant or only legitimate ruler. The historical framework is supposed to run as follows: Kiš ruled indirectly using Šuruppak for the coordination of the south. The so called 'Ki’engi League' is a misnomer for this form of control. Kiš and Šuruppak were destroyed as a result of a revolt of Uruk. Uruk was later defeated by Ur. But rulers of Uruk tried several times again to unite the territory of later Babylonia under their rule. There are indeed indications that the texts from Tell Abū Ṣalābīḫ were written after the destruction of Šuruppak and that Uruk had a direct influence in Tell Abū Ṣalābīḫ. Another text from Tell Abū Ṣalābīḫ, IAS 329, IAS 388 tells the same narrative about the mythical predominance of the En of Kulaba.

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