Demotic Documents from the Egyptian Collection at Heidelberg University
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Demotische Urkunden aus der ägyptischen Sammlung der Universität zu Heidelberg
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Original source:
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Sten V. Wångstedt
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Demotische Urkunden aus der ägyptischen Sammlung der Universität zu Heidelberg
Year: 1960 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5274
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction:
The document presents Demotic texts from the Egyptian collection at the University of Heidelberg, dedicated to Wolja Erichsen on his 70th birthday. These texts, initially published by Eugène Revillout in 1895, are considered interesting but have inaccuracies in transcription and translation, prompting a new edition for clarity. The two discussed documents, originating from Gebelên, date from 120 BC and 94/93 BC, respectively, and involve a property sale and a tax receipt.
Conclusion:
The examined texts, written on wooden tablets instead of the more common pottery shards typical for tax receipts, provide unique insights into property transactions and neighborhood delineations in ancient Egypt. The mention of specific neighboring properties and the names involved highlights the meticulous record-keeping practices of that era, while also emphasizing the significance of these documents as valuable historical artifacts.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of the documents from Gebelên?
The documents from Gebelên, dating back to 120 and 94/93 BC, are significant as they provide insights into property transactions and tax records during the Greek-Roman period in Egypt, showcasing the use of wooden tablets instead of traditional pottery shards.
Who published the original texts and why are they being reissued?
The original texts were published by Eugène Revillout in 1895. They are being reissued due to the inadequacy of his transcriptions, which misrepresented the content. The new publication aims to provide more accurate texts and translations of these interesting documents.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “Demotic Documents from the Egyptian Collection at Heidelberg University”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Dank:
The word 'Dank' is a German term meaning 'thanks' or 'gratitude'. In the context of the document, it represents a sentiment of appreciation, likely related to the gratitude expressed by individuals involved in the transactions. This term highlights the social or emotional aspects accompanying contractual agreements in ancient texts.
2) Pari:
The term 'Pari' does not appear explicitly in the provided text. However, if it is inferred as part of a larger context, it could relate to financial transactions or fairness. It may symbolize a concept of balance or equity in agreements, relevant to the documentation of property sales or taxes.