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Azemilcus

Background

Azemilcus (also spelled Ozmilk) was the King of Tyre during its famous siege by Alexander the Great in 332 BC. His reign and actions during this critical period highlight the political and military challenges faced by city-states in the ancient Near East when confronted by the expansionist ambitions of larger empires.

Historical Context

• Siege of Tyre: The siege of Tyre is one of the most notable military campaigns of Alexander the Great. After successfully taking control of Byblos and Sidon without resistance, Alexander turned his attention to Tyre, a strategic and wealthy Phoenician city. Tyre's strategic importance was due to its powerful navy and its role as a key maritime hub.
• Initial Diplomacy: Initially, Tyre sent envoys to Alexander, agreeing to comply with his demands. However, when Alexander expressed his desire to enter the city to sacrifice to Melqart (the Tyrian equivalent of Herakles), the Tyrians refused, stating that neither Persians nor Macedonians could enter their city. This refusal led to Alexander laying siege to Tyre, which was situated on an island and heavily fortified.

Role of Azemilcus

• King of Tyre: During the siege, Azemilcus was away with the Persian fleet. As the siege progressed, he returned to the city and took a defensive stance against Alexander's forces. The Tyrians put up a fierce resistance, utilizing their naval strength and fortifications.
• Capture of Tyre: After a prolonged and arduous siege that included the construction of a causeway to the island, Alexander's forces eventually breached the city's defenses. Despite the intense resistance, Alexander's army captured Tyre.

Aftermath and Legacy

• Spared by Alexander: Following the city's capture, Azemilcus, along with various other notable figures and envoys from Carthage, sought refuge in the temple of Melqart. Alexander, recognizing their strategic importance and possibly seeking to establish goodwill with the Carthaginians, spared their lives.
• Coinage: Azemilcus is also known for his coinage. His coins, small 18mm silver staters, feature the image of Melqart riding a hippocamp on one side and an owl with a crook and the Phoenician letter Ayin (for Azemilcus) on the other side. These coins are among the earliest dated ancient coins attributable to a specific ruler. They were minted over at least 15 years, between 347 and 332 BC, and provide valuable insight into the economy and iconography of Tyre during his reign.

Significance

• Political Maneuvering: Azemilcus's actions reflect the delicate balancing act that city-states like Tyre had to perform when caught between powerful empires like Persia and Macedonia.
• Cultural and Religious Diplomacy: The refusal to allow Alexander to enter the city to worship Melqart shows the importance of cultural and religious autonomy in Tyrian society, even in the face of potential destruction.
• Economic Indicators: The coinage of Azemilcus provides important archaeological and historical data, illustrating the wealth and economic activity of Tyre during this period.

Conclusion

Azemilcus's reign during the siege of Tyre by Alexander the Great is a vivid example of the intersection of military, political, and cultural forces in the ancient world. His decision to resist Alexander's entry into the city and his subsequent capture and sparing by Alexander highlight the complexities of leadership during times of great upheaval. The legacy of his coinage adds a tangible connection to this pivotal historical moment, offering insights into the economic and cultural life of ancient Tyre.

Sources

Arrian, The Anabasis of Alexander, together with the Indica, E. J. Chinnock, tr. (London: George Bell and Sons, 1893), bk II, 15-25.

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