Arkamani
Arkamani was a ruler of the ancient Nubian kingdom of Meroe, which thrived for approximately six centuries. His reign lasted from 248 to 220 BCE, a period marked by relative peace and collaboration with Egypt, particularly with Ptolemy Philopator in the construction of temples at Philae and Dakka. Arkamani's name reflects the significance of Amun, the chief god of Egyptian mythology, a common practice among Meroitic monarchs. Notably, he is recognized as the only Meroitic king mentioned by name in classical literature, where he is referred to as Ergamenes and noted for his Greek education. His reign saw the assertion of Meroitic power extending to the First Cataract of the Nile. Additionally, Arkamani is one of the earliest kings to be interred in the North Cemetery of Meroe, which serves as the main royal burial ground. His controversial decision to execute the priests of Amun is documented by the Greek historian Diodorus Siculus, indicating a shift in the balance of power between the monarchy and religious authority in Meroe.
Arkamani
Related civilizations: Meroe, Nubia
Major role/position: Meroitic king
Life
Arkamani (ar-ka-MAH-nee) was one of a long line of rulers in the independent Nubian kingdom of Meroe, which existed some six hundred years. His name, like those of many Meroitic kings and queens, is compounded with Amun (or Amon) the name of the major god of Egyptian mythology. Although there were periods of strained relations between Meroe and Egypt, Arkamani ruled from 248 to 220 b.c.e., during a time of peace, as evidenced by his collaboration with Ptolemy Philopator in the construction of temples at Philae and Dakka. The location of the temple at Dakka indicates that Meroitic power under Arkamani had extended as far north as the First Cataract of the Nile. Arkamani was said to have had some Greek education. He is the only Meroitic king mentioned by name in classical literature, in which he is referred to as Ergamenes. A group of pyramids at Meroe forms what is known as the North Cemetery, the main royal burial ground. Arkamani is one of the earliest kings to be buried there.
Influence
The Greek historian Diodorus Siculus wrote that a tradition among the people of Meroe required their rulers to obey the priests of Amun even if ordered to commit suicide. This arrangement was said to have ended when Arkamani ordered the priests to be killed so that he could rule in his own way.
Bibliography
Burstein, Stanley M., ed. Ancient African Civilizations: Kush and Axum. Princeton, N.J.: Markus Wiener, 1998.
Shinnie, Peter L. Meroe: A Civilization of the Sudan. New York: Frederick A. Praeger, 1967.
Taylor, John. Egypt and Nubia. London: British Museum Press, 1991.