Riyadh, October 26, 2024 — Renowned Saudi writer and historian Dr. Suleiman Al-Theeb was a distinguished guest at the recent Riyadh International Book Fair, where he participated in a compelling panel discussion titled "Ancient Arabic Writings." This engaging dialogue focused on the deep-rooted cultural heritage of the Kingdom and the broader Arabian Peninsula, providing insights into the rich tapestry of its history, geography, and people.
The Riyadh International Book Fair, organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, took place from September 26 to October 5, attracting a diverse array of scholars, authors, and cultural enthusiasts. During the discussion, Dr. Al-Theeb eloquently explored the meanings embedded in ancient Arab inscriptions and writings, emphasizing their significance in understanding the region's heritage and antiquities. He provided a historical overview of the Arabian Peninsula, shedding light on its cultural and civilizational contributions, while highlighting the profound connections between language, identity, and social structures.
Dr. Al-Theeb underscored that these ancient writings serve as vital testimonies to the Arabian Peninsula's historical roots and its rich cultural legacy. He articulated the point that the term "Arab" was first used to describe a group of tribes during the Assyrian era, around the 8th and 9th centuries BCE, and noted that the Arabian Peninsula has been predominantly inhabited by Arabs throughout history. He emphasized that while other ethnicities have temporarily settled in the region, it is the Arabs who have consistently shaped its identity.
In his discourse, Dr. Al-Theeb traced the migratory patterns originating from the central region of the Arabian Peninsula, detailing how these movements led to settlements in Mesopotamia, Greater Syria, and Egypt, where communities established flourishing kingdoms. He also referenced the discovery of the oldest known Arab inscription, a Thamudic inscription found in the city of Lachish in Palestine, dating back to 1300 BCE. Initially misidentified as Phoenician, this inscription has since been recognized as a combination of South Arabian script and Thamudic letters, further enriching the understanding of the region's linguistic history.
As a leading historian in the Kingdom, Dr. Al-Theeb has dedicated his career to exploring the civilizations that have flourished in the Arabian Peninsula over thousands of years. His expertise encompasses various social dimensions, making significant contributions to the understanding of ancient Arabic inscriptions. Currently a professor at King Saud University, he has authored numerous books and studies in Arabic on topics related to heritage, historical research, and civilization.
Dr. Al-Theeb's extensive archaeological expeditions and scholarly publications have established him as a prominent figure in the study of ancient Saudi history, ensuring that the rich narrative of the Arabian Peninsula continues to be explored and appreciated by future generations. His insights during the panel discussion not only highlighted the importance of preserving this heritage but also served to inspire a deeper appreciation for the cultural foundations that have shaped the region throughout history.
