The Greco-Roman Inscription of Anaitis in Cappadocia

Summary of article contents:

Introduction

In a recent publication in Anatolian Studies, Richard P. Harper presented a Greek inscription from the imperial period dedicated to the goddess Anaitis, discovered in Ortaköy, near Niğde in the ancient region of Cappadocia. This inscription is noteworthy as it is potentially the most easterly Greek reference to Anaitis, a goddess also frequently mentioned in inscriptions from western Asia Minor, particularly in Lydia. The inscription reveals a previously unknown epithet: ΘΕΑ ΜΕΓΙΣΤΗ ΑΝΑΕΙΤΙΔΙ ΒΑΡΖΟΧΑΡΑ, prompting deeper investigation into its components and implications.

The Epithet "Bapзoxapa"

The term Bapзoxapa has provoked various interpretations. Initial speculation connects it to Barzos, an eastern city from Roman times, due to its phonetic structure, although no known suffix validates this theory. A more compelling theory posits that Bapзoxapa may be associated with the name of a person, specifically Barzapharnes, a satrap during the Parthian period. This connection could extend to ancient Iranian cultural context, where the name Borzfarri—also related to the Iranian mythological figure Feriborz—displays aspects of both historical significance and linguistic evolution. The analysis suggests that Barzo- could derive from an Iranian term denoting 'light' or 'splendor,' reflecting a similar root found in other relevant ancient languages.

Conclusion

The exploration of the epithet Bapзoxapa not only highlights the interplay between Greek and Iranian linguistic elements but also sheds light on the cultural and theological exchanges in ancient Anatolia. The presence of Anaitis and the inscription in Cappadocia emphasizes the far-reaching influence of Iranian mythology in the region, particularly through its connection to the goddess Anahit in Armenian tradition. This inscription serves as a crucial piece for understanding the blending of local and foreign deities in ancient Anatolian religious practices, illustrating the enduring legacies of these cultures in their shared historical narrative.