Hittites Quote by Leonard William King
““The Kheta, or Hittites, were certainly not Semites, yet the Hyksos names are definitely Semitic. In fact it is most probable that the Hyksos, or Shepherd Kings, were, as the classical authorities say they were, and as their name (hiku-semut or hihu-shasu,) "princes of the deserts" or ("princes of the Bedawîn") also testifies, purely and simply Arabs.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The History of the Hittites by Leonard William King, 1913
Argues that the Hyksos were likely Arab, not Semitic, based on linguistic and historical evidence
In simple terms: Hyksos probably Arab, not Semitic, per name and sources
Key Takeaway
Recognize the complexity of ancient identities
Themes
history
ethnicity
identity
ancient cultures
Mood
analytical
curious
Type
historical
academic
When to use this quote
- academic research
- teaching ancient history
- museum curation
- cultural heritage projects
Key Concepts
Linguistics
archaeology
political anthropology
Questions to Reflect On
- What sources support the Arab identification?
- How do modern national narratives affect interpretations of ancient peoples?
A Different Perspective
Evidence is limited and interpretations vary
