Abdastartus: The Tyrian Monarch of Mystery
A scholarly exploration of a Phoenician King, examining the limited historical records, his lineage, reign, and the methods used to date his existence.
His Reign 👇 Primary Source 📜Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮
Introduction to Abdastartus
A King of Tyre
Abdastartus, known in Phoenician as 'bd'štrt (potentially pronounced 'Abd-'Ashtart), ascended to the throne of the ancient maritime city-state of Tyre. His rule, though brief and sparsely documented, represents a critical juncture in the Tyrian monarchy. The available information regarding his life and reign is primarily derived from secondary historical accounts, most notably the writings of Menander of Ephesus as preserved by the historian Josephus.
Limited Historical Footprint
The historical record concerning Abdastartus is notably concise. Unlike rulers whose reigns are extensively detailed through contemporary inscriptions or comprehensive chronicles, Abdastartus is known almost exclusively through a single passage. This passage, cited by Josephus, provides his regnal dates, familial connections, and the circumstances of his demise, offering a glimpse into a period demanding careful scholarly interpretation.
A Violent End
The narrative surrounding Abdastartus's death is particularly striking. According to the account, he was assassinated by four individuals described as the sons of his nurse. This detail, while specific, underscores the potential political instability or personal rivalries that could affect even royal succession in the ancient world. The precise motivations behind this act remain speculative, lost to the passage of time.
Reign and Succession
The Tyrian Chronicle
Abdastartus reigned as King of Tyre for a period of nine years, from approximately 929 BC to 921 BC. His ascension followed that of his father, Baal-Eser I (also known as Beleazarus I), who ruled from 946 BC to 930 BC. Abdastartus's own reign concluded prematurely in 921 or 920 BC due to his assassination.
He was succeeded by Astartus (known as 'Ashtart), whose reign is dated from 920 BC to 901 BC. This sequence highlights the dynastic continuity within the Tyrian monarchy, tracing lineage back to prominent figures such as Hiram I.
Key Chronological Data
The following table summarizes the key details pertaining to Abdastartus's reign and immediate family, as reconstructed from historical sources:
| Abdastartus | |
|---|---|
| King of Tyre | |
| Reign | 929 – 921 BC |
| Predecessor | Baal-Eser I (946 – 930 BC) |
| Successor | Astartus (920 – 901 BC) |
| Born | c. 950 BC Tyre, presumed |
| Died | 921 or 920 BC |
| Dynasty | Dynasty of Abibaal and Hiram I |
| Father | Baal-Eser I |
| Mother | Unknown |
Dynastic Connections
Ancestry and Lineage
Abdastartus was a member of a significant Tyrian royal dynasty, tracing his lineage back to prominent rulers. His father was King Baal-Eser I, who himself succeeded the renowned Hiram I. This familial connection places Abdastartus within a line of rulers who shaped Tyre's influence during the early first millennium BC. Information regarding his mother is not extant in the historical records.
The Nurse's Sons
The historical account by Menander of Ephesus, as cited by Josephus, provides a specific detail regarding the individuals responsible for Abdastartus's death: "four sons of his nurse plotted against him and slew him." While seemingly a minor detail, it offers a rare insight into the intimate circles of power and potential intrigue surrounding the Tyrian court. The identity and motivations of these individuals remain unknown, adding to the enigmatic nature of Abdastartus's life.
The Primary Source: Menander of Ephesus
Josephus's Citation
Our understanding of Abdastartus is almost entirely dependent upon a passage from the works of Menander of Ephesus, a historian from the 2nd century BC who wrote a history of Phoenicia. This work is now lost, but significant portions were quoted by the later Jewish historian Flavius Josephus in his polemical work, Against Apion (i.18). Josephus utilized Menander's history to corroborate biblical accounts concerning Tyre and its rulers.
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Abdastartus" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
- J. Liver, âThe Chronology of Tyre at the Beginning of the First Millennium B.C.â Israel Exploration Journal 3 (1953) 119-120.
- J. M. Peñuela, âLa Inscripción Asiria IM 55644 y la CronologÃa de los reyes de Riroâ, Sefarad 13 (1953) 217-37 and 14 (1954) 1-39.
- F. M. Cross, âAn Interpretation of the Nora Stone,â Bulletin of the American Schools of Oriental Research 208 (1972) 17, n. 11.
- William H. Barnes, Studies in the Chronology of the Divided Monarchy of Israel (Atlanta: Scholars Press, 1991) 29-55.
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Scholarly Disclaimer
Important Notice Regarding Historical Content
This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from available historical sources, primarily the Wikipedia article on Abdastartus. It is intended for academic and educational purposes, aimed at students pursuing higher education.
This is not professional historical analysis. The content presented is based on interpretations of secondary sources derived from ancient texts. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, the inherent limitations of historical reconstruction and the nature of AI-generated content mean that absolute completeness or definitive accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The information provided should not substitute for rigorous academic research or consultation with leading historians specializing in the field.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein. Users are encouraged to consult primary sources and scholarly critiques for a comprehensive understanding.