Researchers in Turkey have made a significant archaeological discovery: a 3,300-year-old tablet that bears a chilling message warning of death to anyone who breaks its associated contract. The tablet, unearthed from the Büklükale ruins near the Kızılırmak River, approximately 60 miles from Ankara, provides a glimpse into the legal practices of the ancient Hittite Empire.
The warning inscribed on the artefact reads, “whoever breaks this will die.” This message is believed to be a stark reminder of the consequences of violating agreements made during the Hittite period, which is known for its complex legal framework. The tablet’s discovery was reported by the Japanese Institute of Anatolian Archaeology, where archaeologist Kimiyoshi Matsumura serves as a faculty member.
Significance of the Discovery
The tablet was found amidst excavations that suggest Büklükale was a notable city during the Hittite Empire, with a diameter of about 500 meters. The artefact features logosyllabic writing typical of ancient Middle Eastern cultures, indicating the sophistication of the civilization that once thrived in the region. The context of the find is supported by pottery shards collected from the site throughout 2023.
Matsumura, who is also the head of the excavation team, noted that the seal associated with the tablet was used by the Hittite king and queen. He explained, “There is cuneiform writing on this seal. On the seal, the Great King Tabarna or Tavananna writes ‘Whoever breaks this will die.’” Such seals were typically affixed to contracts to enforce penalties for breaches, highlighting the serious nature of agreements in Hittite society.
The discovery is particularly intriguing given that ancient Hittite laws generally favored monetary fines over corporal punishment for contract violations. The grave nature of this warning suggests it may have served as an extreme deterrent against breaking significant agreements.
Broader Implications and Findings
In addition to the warning tablet, Matsumura and his team have uncovered a tablet that discusses a civil war in the same geographical area during the same period. The language on this tablet aligns with that of the seal, reinforcing the connection between the artefacts and the historical narrative of the Hittite Empire.
Recent findings at Büklükale have also included Hurrian tablets, which indicate that religious ceremonies were conducted in the area. According to Matsumura, these ceremonies were likely performed by the Hittite royal family, suggesting that the site may have been a royal residence during the Bronze Age.
Matsumura concluded, “All these (finds) show that Büklükale is an important city in the Hittite Empire.” The evidence points to a vibrant city that played a crucial role in the political and religious life of the time.
The implications of this discovery extend beyond the archaeological significance, offering insights into the legal and cultural practices of one of the ancient world’s most influential civilizations. As excavations continue, researchers hope to uncover more about the lives of those who lived in Büklükale and their interactions with the wider Hittite Empire.
