Detailed Notes on Akkadian Studies and Assyrian Prophecies

Introduction to Akkadian Studies

• The study references significant works on Akkadian, providing a historical backdrop for the language and its use in ancient correspondence and prophecies.
• Key scholars and publications:
  • Finet, Goldenberg, Havers, Hofmann, Lewy, Meyer-Lübke, Rapallo, Solá-Solé.

Paronomastic Infinitive Constructions in Old Babylonian Letters

• Focus of the study: Occurrences and functions of paronomastic infinitive constructions (e.g., alākum-ma illik) in Old Babylonian letters.
• Types classified based on function:
  • Type 1: Infinitive as the topic (lexical meaning).
  • Type 2: Infinitive as the focus.
  • Type 3: Whole construction as an emphatic response (nexus focusing exponent).

Assyrian Prophecies and Historical Context

• Examination of prophecies from seventh-century Assyria, notably concerning Babylon during the reign of Esarhaddon after Sennacherib's assassination in 681 BCE.
• Importance of Babylon during the struggle for power among Esarhaddon and his brothers:
  • Esarhaddon's favorable relationship with Babylon stems from political support during turbulence.
• Prophetic oracles as historical sources:
  • They illustrate relationships between events and the divine narrative.

Characteristics of the Prophecies

• Prophecies reflect common divination practices in the ancient Near East, showing similarities with Hebrew Bible prophecies.
• Research has highlighted the late recognition of Assyrian prophetic texts, particularly after the publication of Parpola's 1997 edition.

The Political Context of the Assyrian Prophecies

• Analysis of the circumstances leading to Esarhaddon’s ascension as king:
  • Conflict with brothers over the throne.
  • Allegations of manipulation regarding Sennacherib's intentions towards Esarhaddon.
• Examination of specific prophetic oracles supporting Esarhaddon:
  • Naqia's role in seeking divine support for her son.
  • Various deities offering protections and promises of success.

Case Studies from Prophetic Oracles

• Noteworthy references to individuals and deities within the prophetic texts:
  • Naqia, Esarhaddon’s mother, frequents multiple oracles asking for divine favor.
  • Prophetic affirmation of Esarhaddon's kingship and affirmation of divine support found in various passages (e.g., from deities like Ištar and Banitu).
• Specific examples from oracles highlight calls for sacrifices to secure divine favor and well-being during political unrest.

The Role of Babylonian Deities and the Concept of Mutual Support

• Discussion of how Babylonian cities and their deities backed Esarhannon during his claim to power:
  • Importance of restoring Babylon post-Sennacherib.
  • Prophetic texts emphasize partnership: divine assistance tied to the restoration promises by Esarhaddon.
• Analysis reflects how prophecies often follow a do ut des principle in relation to political support and divine promises.

Comparative Perspectives: Assyrian vs. Hebrew Prophecies

• Examination of how prophecy operated in Assyria with respect to Israelite prophecy, particularly in the texts attributed to Isaiah:
  • Isaiah’s messages contrast with Assyrian prophecies in both rhetoric and influence.
  • The specificity of divine aid and royal legitimacy found in both contexts.
• Importance of studying prophecies across cultures to understand their socio-political contexts:
  • Possible similarities in prophetic roles and functions in Assyria and ancient Israel, despite differing sociocultural frameworks.

Conclusion: The Insights from Assyrian Prophecy Studies

• Recognition that some Babylonian factions supported Esarhaddon during his power struggle aids in understanding his favorable policies.
• Encouragement for the comparative study of Assyrian prophecies and biblical texts to better apprehend their mutual influences and the contexts of ancient Near Eastern prophecies.