Thamud People
The Thamud people are believed to have inhabited Yemen, a notion supported by the discovery of Thamudic inscriptions in the ancient script of Musnad. These inscriptions are linked to the kingdoms of Ma’in and Lihyan in the Al-Ula region, which historically dominated the incense trade routes. The Thamud are considered descendants of Thamud, son of Jather, son of Aram, son of Sam. They are referenced multiple times in the Holy Quran, often in conjunction with the tribes of ‘Aad and the giants.
The Thamud practiced the worship of various Arab idols, including the god of fertility and rain known as “Baal,” and the deity symbolizing love and affection named “Wadd,” along with his family. They were distinguished by their toughness, bravery, and resilience, attributes enhanced by their rocky environment, which they had adapted to, as well as their robust physical stature.
Famed for excavating their homes within the mountain rocks, their legacy includes the archaeological site of Madain Saleh, which was later occupied by the Nabateans, who transformed these dwellings into temples and tombs. The Thamud’s skill in rock-cut architecture led them to credit themselves with the construction of the “City of Stone.”
Significant Artifacts of the Thamud
The earliest Thamud artifacts date back to the eighth century BCE and include inscriptions from Sargon of Assyria, who engaged in several battles against them. Inscriptions identified with the city of Tayma, along with others labeled Lihyanite and Ihsaite, have been discovered in regions such as Al-Ihsa, southern Hijaz, Jizan, and Hail. Hail, particularly, is rich with Thamudic inscriptions, artifacts, and relics; it is estimated that around seventy thousand inscriptions have been uncovered, while approximately one hundred sixty texts are still undergoing study, characterized as “Fantus texts,” which do not have a reliable source.
One of the significant discoveries in Hail is a depiction of a two-wheeled cart dating back to 5,200 BCE, challenging the prevailing belief that such carts originated in Iraq circa 4,000 BCE. Additionally, large statues and reliefs of their kings demonstrate the impressive physical stature of these peoples, with intricate details that reflect their daily life, reinforcing the scholarly consensus of their colossal nature.
Moreover, numerous carvings and drawings representing their worship practices, rituals, and communal dances have been found, alongside many skeletal remains, including well-preserved corpses recently unearthed in the Sarawat mountain peaks of Hijaz.
Among their other notable artifacts is Jabal al-Qarah, recognized for its unique shape and exceptional artistry. This mountain contains numerous caves and niches sculpted by the Thamud themselves, serving as their residence and a refuge during invasions. These natural formations offer warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer, making them an ideal habitat.