Jehu's tribute in the Black Obelisk
About this date: The tribute is dated to 841 BCE; the museum dates the surviving obelisk to 825 BCE. These are different dates.
An Assyrian monument identifies tribute from Jehu of Israel. Its scenes place Israel within the diplomatic and military reach of Assyria.
Historical context
The monument was commissioned to display royal success, so its imagery presents the relationship from the Assyrian ruler's viewpoint.
Key points
- The tribute episode predates the surviving monument.
- The inscription uses the dynastic label House of Omri.
- An image of submission records imperial representation, not an unmediated portrait of Israelite life.
People
- Jehu
- Shalmaneser III
Sources and further reading
- Black Obelisk: object 118885
Identifies Jehu's tribute in 841 BCE and the later 825 BCE monument.