Tashlultum

Tashlultum (fl. c. 2300 BC) was a wife of the Akkadian king Sargon. Her name is of uncertain etymology, though it appears to be of Akkadian origin and ends with the feminine suffix -tum. This suggests a possible meaning related to a goddess or divine concept, but the precise root remains unknown.

Historical Record

Tashlultum is known to archaeology only from a single shard of an alabaster vase or bowl bearing an inscription that indicates it was dedicated to a temple by her steward or scribe. This artifact provides rare insight into the role of women in early Akkadian society. The fact that Tashlultum had male officials among her staff, including a steward, suggests she held a position of considerable authority and was able to manage her own resources.

Family and Legacy

Given that no contradictory sources exist, it is commonly assumed that Tashlultum was the queen consort of Sargon and the mother of his children: Enheduanna (the famous poet and high priestess), Rimush, Manishtushu, Shu-Enlil, and Ilaba'is-takal. If this is correct, she was the matriarch of the Akkadian dynasty and grandmother to later kings. Despite the scarcity of evidence, her name is significant as one of the earliest recorded female names in Mesopotamia and as a testament to the influence of royal women in the ancient Near East.

Etymology and Linguistic Aspects

The name Tashlultum appears to incorporate the Akkadian feminine suffix -tum (common in female names and titles). The stem is obscure, but could derive from a verb or noun related to concepts such as “protection” or “trust.” However, no scholarly consensus exists on its meaning. Variants include Da-šlul-tum in some readings.

• Meaning: Unknown, possibly Akkadian origin.
• Gender: Feminine.
• Origin: Akkadian (Mesopotamia).
• Usage: Ancient, exclusively as a historical name.