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What types of priests and temple officials are mentioned in ancient Arabian inscriptions?
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Inscriptions from Lihyanite, Nabataean, and South Arabian sources mention various types of priests and temple officials, though their specific functions remain unclear.1
In addition to the northwestern Arabian kāhin, or "soothsayer," the following roles are noted:
- Priests (rshw): In the kingdom of Saba’, these priests of the god ’Athtar were recruited on a hereditary basis from three specific clans. They served seven-year terms as eponyms (kabir), during which they were responsible for collecting tithes and performing rites intended to secure rain.1
- Priestly Rulers: Ancient Qatabānian rulers and various North Arabian queens are known to have held priestly titles, indicating that political and religious leadership were often intertwined.1
While these inscriptions confirm the existence of these officials, the historical record provides limited detail regarding the precise duties associated with many of these titles.1