Shaqilath facts for kids

A coin showing Queen Shaqilath and King Aretas IV. It was made between 9 BC and 40 AD. On one side, you can see both their faces. On the other side, there are crossed cornucopias (symbols of plenty) and their names written in Nabataean script.

Shaqilath was a powerful queen of the Nabataeans, an ancient Arab people. Her name can be spelled in a few ways, like Shaqilat, Shaqeela, or Shaqeelah. She was a very important figure in the Nabataean Kingdom.

Who Was Queen Shaqilath?

Shaqilath was the second wife of King Aretas IV. She was also his co-ruler, which means she shared power with him. They ruled the Nabataean Kingdom together.

Family Life

Shaqilath married King Aretas IV in 15 AD. They had four children together:

• Hagru (or Hajir)
• Malik
• Jameelah
• Shaqilath II

Her Special Title

Shaqilath had a special title: "the Sister of the King." This title showed how close she was to King Aretas IV. It also showed how important her role as queen was in the kingdom.

The Nabataean Kingdom Under Shaqilath

During the time King Aretas IV and Queen Shaqilath ruled, the Nabataean Kingdom grew a lot.

Growing Trade and Business

Trade routes expanded to many far-off places in the ancient world. This meant that goods and ideas were exchanged with many different cultures. The Nabataeans became very good at business and trading.

A Time of Prosperity

The kingdom's industries and businesses did very well. This led to a time when the Nabataean way of life became very rich and developed. Their civilization flourished, meaning it became strong and successful.

Coins and Culture

Archaeologists have found copper and silver coins that show both Queen Shaqilath and King Aretas IV. These coins are like snapshots of their time. They show us what Nabataean culture was like, especially their clothing styles.