The Camel in Nabataean Society: Archaeological and Historical Perspectives
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54878/hqmxy078Keywords:
camel, Nabatean, Arabs, Roman Coinage, Terracotta Figurines, Religious PracticesAbstract
Camels have been companions to humans since ancient civilizations, being a preferred animal because of their multipurpose nature. They were commonly used for long-distance transportation, favored over other animals like horses and donkeys due to their patience and ability to endure long journeys through harsh deserts with minimal water. In ancient times, people across the Middle East and Arabian societies relied on camels for overland trade and daily life. This paper highlights the significant role of camels from multiple perspectives, based on archaeological evidence from the Nabataean civilization, which settled in southern Jordan as Bedouin tribes. They became involved in commercial trade, helping their societies flourish and interact with neighboring civilizations. The study emphasizes the significant role of the camel in Nabataean culture, highlighting its economic, political, and symbolic importance in the ancient Middle East, with particular focus on its role within Nabataean society.
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