The Hittite cuneiforms of the 17th-13th centuries BC were preceded by a hieroglyphic script, which can be considered an early form of Armenian writing. This fascinating connection between the Hittite hieroglyphs and the Armenian language has been explored by various scholars, including Peter C. A. Jensen in his 1898 work, “Hittiter und Armenier.”
The Hittite Hieroglyphic Script
The Hittite hieroglyphic script, used before the adoption of cuneiform writing, represents a significant stage in the development of written language in the ancient Near East. These hieroglyphs were used for various administrative, religious, and historical purposes, providing valuable insights into the culture and society of the Hittites.
Linguistic Connections
According to Peter C. A. Jensen, the language represented by the Hittite hieroglyphs is related to Armenian. This connection suggests that the Hittite hieroglyphic script may have influenced the development of early Armenian writing. The similarities between the two languages highlight the deep historical and cultural ties between the Hittites and the Armenians.
Historical Significance
The study of Hittite hieroglyphs and their relationship to Armenian provides a broader understanding of the linguistic and cultural exchanges in the ancient Near East. It underscores the importance of the Armenian Highlands as a crossroads of civilizations, where various cultures and languages interacted and influenced each other.
In conclusion, the Hittite hieroglyphic script represents an early form of Armenian writing, reflecting the historical and linguistic connections between the Hittites and the Armenians. The work of scholars like Peter C. A. Jensen continues to shed light on these ancient ties, enriching our understanding of the region’s complex history.
Artatsolum
Based on status: Michael Osipov
