Unraveling the Mysteries of Pre-Islamic Arabian Civilizations: Mada'n Saleh and the Nabateans
When diving into the rich tapestry of pre-Islamic Arabian civilizations, one site that immediately captures the imagination is Mada'in Saleh, a hauntingly beautiful ancient settlement located in the northwest region of Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia. This archeological gem offers a wealth of information about the lives and beliefs of its early inhabitants, many of whom worshipped multiple deities.
Making the Journey to Mada'in Saleh
During my tenure in Saudi Arabia, I had the privilege of visiting this enigmatic site, which is situated in the Al-Oula sector. Mada'in Saleh is believed to have been a thriving settlement during the 8th century BCE. Folklore speaks of a curse that led to the abandonment of the site, a belief that hinders many Saudis from venturing into this hauntingly beautiful desert landscape. Interestingly, some expatriates and tourists, both Muslim and non-Muslim, occasionally explore this place to experience its fascinating natural rock formations, ancient structures, and captivating atmosphere.
Legends and Theories Surrounding Mada'in Saleh
The reasons behind the abandonment of Mada'in Saleh by its initial inhabitants remain shrouded in mystery. Some locals are said to believe in supernatural phenomena, attributing the settlement's abandonment to curses. Archeological research suggests that the early inhabitants may have been polytheistic, worshiping multiple gods. One narrative mentions the arrival of a pre-Islamic prophet who urged them to worship a single divine entity; when this advice was not embraced, a plague or similar disaster struck, leading to the evacuation of the settlement and the dispersal of its inhabitants.
The Nabatean Connection
Several kilometers from Mada'in Saleh lies another fascinating site, which belonged to the Nabateans. This ancient civilization, which arrived between 100 BCE and 100 CE, left behind a vast burial ground consisting of 131 tombs carved into giant sandstone formations. As I explored this site, I noticed some solitary monoliths, each of which contained hollowed-out shelves that served as resting places for the dead. Among these structures, a small carved-out prayer/worship place caught my attention, reflecting the polytheistic beliefs of the Nabateans, who worshipped a multitude of deities.
Comparison with Rock Artifacts
Mada'in Saleh and the Nabatean tombs share striking similarities with another renowned archaeological site, known for its carved tombs in rock formations. The Nabateans, like their predecessors, eventually abandoned Mada'in Saleh for unknown reasons. They settled in a new location, approximately 500 kilometers away, in what is now part of southeast Jordan. This new settlement is famously known as Petra, a symbol of the Nabateans’ cultural and architectural grandeur.
Conclusion
The exploration of Mada'in Saleh and the Nabatean tombs offers a glimpse into a past where worship and cultural practices were intertwined with nature and myth. While the mysteries surrounding these sites continue to intrigue, the archaeological evidence speaks volumes about the historical and spiritual richness of pre-Islamic Arab civilization. These sites are not just historical landmarks but also powerful narratives of human resilience and cultural evolution.