The Rise and Fall of a Queen
Shamiram, a figure shrouded in both grandeur and infamy, is a central character in the annals of ancient history. Her story, as detailed by the historian Movses Khorenatsi, is one of power, betrayal, and ultimate downfall.
A Queen’s Reign and Her Sons’ Demise
Shamiram, known for her beauty and cunning, ruled with an iron fist. Every summer, she would retreat to the northern regions, to a summer city she built in Armenia, leaving the magician Zradasht as the governor of Assyria and Nineveh. Zradasht, a powerful figure in his own right, was entrusted with the implementation of her power.
However, Shamiram’s reign was marred by her dissolute lifestyle and disregard for her sons. Repeatedly censured by her sons for her lustful and reckless behavior, Shamiram exterminated them all, sparing only the youngest, Niny. Her husband, Ninus, fled to Crete upon discovering her depraved nature, abandoning his royal power.
The War with Zradasht
Discord arose between Shamiram and Zradasht due to offenses committed by the latter. This led to a war, with Zradasht planning to seize all power. As the conflict escalated, Shamiram fled to Armenia, seeking refuge from the magician’s wrath.
The Final Betrayal
In Armenia, Shamiram’s youngest son, Niny, seized the opportunity for revenge. He killed his mother and ascended to the throne, becoming the king of Assyria and Nineveh. Thus ended the tumultuous reign of Shamiram, a queen whose life was marked by both grandeur and tragedy.
Ninyas Takes the Throne
After the death of his mother, Ninyas ascended to the throne. Unlike his mother, whose reign was marked by turmoil and excess, Ninyas brought a period of peace and stability to the kingdom. His rule is noted for its tranquility, a stark contrast to the tumultuous years under Shamiram.
A Time of Peace
Under Ninyas’s reign, the kingdom flourished. The years of Abraham’s life were completed during this time, indicating a period of significant historical and cultural development. Ninyas’s leadership allowed the kingdom to thrive, free from the chaos that had characterized his mother’s rule.
Legacy of Ninyas
Ninyas’s ascension to the throne and his subsequent peaceful reign highlight the cyclical nature of history. His ability to bring stability after a period of upheaval demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of ancient civilizations. Ninyas’s legacy is one of peace and prosperity, a testament to his effective leadership.
Historical and Legendary Accounts
The story of Shamiram’s death in Armenia is corroborated by various sources. The historian Cephalion speaks of her birth, her war with Zradasht, and her eventual victory, followed by a war with the Indians. However, the Chaldean books, as researched by Mar Abas Katina, provide a more consistent account of the events leading to her demise.
Legends from the region also confirm the tale of Shamiram’s flight, her burning desire for water, and her eventual death at the hands of her son. These stories, passed down through generations, paint a vivid picture of a queen who was both revered and reviled.
The Legacy of Shamiram
Shamiram’s story is a testament to the complexities of power and the human condition. Her life, filled with both triumph and tragedy, continues to captivate historians and storytellers alike. As we delve into the past, we are reminded of the timeless nature of human ambition, betrayal, and the quest for power.
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