The Significance of 'King of Kings' in the Achaemenid Empire: Emperor Darius' Legacy

The historical record reveals that Emperor Darius I, the third emperor of the Achaemenid Empire, called himself the 'King of Kings' in a manner that was both multifaceted and profound. This title, known in Persian as 'Shahanshah,' evokes a complex narrative of political and cultural importance, rooted in the vast and diverse territory that he ruled.

Historical Context: Dareios I and the Inscription

Among the myriad royal titles and inscriptions attributed to Darius I (r. 522–486 BC) and his successors, 'King of Kings' held a prominent place. The famous inscription above Darius' rock-cut tomb at Naqsh-e Rustam provides insight into the multifaceted nature of this title. The inscription, a reflection of Achaemenid ambitions and intentions, can be translated to read:

Great King, the King of Kings, Lord of the Lands, Days and Night, Deity of Highway and Postal Travel, King of this great and wide earth.

This title is composed of several elements:

Great King (Xāyatiya): This establishes Darius as the supreme ruler of his realm, emphasizing his status above other kings. King of Kings (Xāyatiya Xāyatiyānām): This title underscores his status as the ruler of all other kings, symbolizing his overarching sovereignty and authority. Lord of the Lands (Xāyatiya Dahyūnām Vispakānām): This highlights his control over a wide range of territories and ethnic groups. Deity of Highway and Postal Travel (Xāyatiya Ahiyāya Būmiyā Vazakāyā Dūrai Apiy): This title signifies his role in establishing and maintaining a vast and efficient communication network, facilitating his rule over a sprawling empire.

The Rationale Behind 'King of Kings'

The precise rationale for the title 'King of Kings' remains somewhat ambiguous. It appears to indicate two potential meanings:

Suzerainty Over Lesser Rulers: Darius might have used this title to denote his authority over other kings and rulers in the Achaemenid Empire, suggesting a hierarchical political structure where he was at the apex. Initial Conquest of Foreign Kings: Alternatively, the title could reflect the early conquest of foreign kingdoms and the unification of diverse territories under a single ruler, thus legitimizing his reign.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that the title 'King of Kings' was not unique to Darius; similar titles were found among other Near Eastern rulers. The Achaemenids may have adopted this title as a means of integrating and honoring pre-existing traditions, thus establishing a cohesive and authoritative political narrative.

The Visual Representation

The visual representation of Darius also reflects the grandeur and complexity of his reign. The relief above the entrance to his tomb at Naqsh-e Rustam captures the essence of his rule through a series of carefully composed images. This relief serves as a testament to Darius' extensive reach and his title of 'King of Kings.' Some key elements of the relief include:

King in Grandeur: The central figure of Darius is depicted in a prominent and authoritative manner, emphasizing his status. Archaeological Context: The relief is intricately carved into the stone, providing a lasting record of Darius' reign and his cultural legacy. Symbolism: The relief includes representations of various gods and deities, underscoring the divine right to rule and the legitimacy of Darius' authority.

The combination of written and visual evidence provides a comprehensive understanding of why Darius called himself the 'King of Kings.' This title encapsulates his political ambitions, his military conquests, and his cultural and religious significance. It reflects a multifaceted and inclusive approach to governance, inclusive of diverse ethnicities and territories within the Achaemenid Empire.