Was Tomyris Turkic or Iranian?

The debate over whether Tomyris, the powerful queen of the Massagetae, was of Turkic or Iranian origin has long been a topic of discussion. Even the name 'Tomyris' itself hints at its Turkic etymology, yet Persian historians persist in classifying her as an Iranian figure. This article delves into the historical context and evidence to unravel the true heritage of Tomyris.

The Historical Context

Tomyris was a historical figure associated with the Massagetae, a nomadic group that lived in Central Asia, primarily in what is now Kazakhstan. According to historical sources, her name 'Tomyris' is derived from the Saka language, suggesting a Turkic origin. However, most scholars and cultural historians classify her as an Iranian figure due to her status as a leader of the Massagetae, who were of Iranian origin.

Her Role as a Leader

According to the Greek historian Herodotus, Tomyris led her armies in a famous battle against Cyrus the Great of the Achaemenid Empire in 530 BC. She defeated and killed Cyrus, and as a grim form of retribution, had his severed head placed in a bag filled with blood. This act symbolized her thirst for vengeance and her leadership over the Massagetae, a people known to speak an Eastern Iranian language.

Historical sources also mention that Tomyris was the first Turkish female ruler, a claim that has sparked debate. The confusion arises when we examine her roots. While Tomyris is indeed noted as a leader among the Saka Turks, she is more accurately described as an Iranic Saka queen rather than a Turkic ruler. Her role as a protector and leader of the Massagetae aligns more closely with the description of the Saka peoples during the 6th century BC.

The Saka Peoples

The Saka peoples were a large group of Iranic nomads who lived in Central Asia. They were known for their distinctive culture and were often referred to in Old Persian as 'Saka Tigrakhauda,' meaning 'Scythians who wore pointed caps.' The Saka peoples maintained a nomadic lifestyle, distinct from the Persians, who adopted a more settled lifestyle in southern Iran.

Tomyris is also known to have worked to ensure peace and order during her reign, reflecting the leadership qualities often ascribed to Saka queens and leaders. Her actions and the historical context suggest that she was of Iranic descent, given the historical and linguistic evidence that links the Massagetae to an Eastern Iranian heritage.

Origins of the Saka and Turkic Peoples

The origins of the Saka peoples are well-documented, with historical records indicating that they were part of the broader Iranic peoples. The term 'Saka' in Old Persian refers to nomadic Iranian tribes, and the name 'Tomyris' itself is believed to have originated from the Saka language.

Contrary to the claims of some scholars, the Turkic peoples did not emerge as a distinct identity until several centuries after Tomyris lived. The Proto-Turks, who formed the Xiongnu confederation in the 3rd century BCE, were a mixture of Eastern Iranian Saka horsemen and Mongoloid pastoralists. It was not until centuries later, around the 6th century AD, that the Turkic identity and language began to gain prominence.

The Current Debate and Historical Clarity

The debate around Tomyris's heritage is often marred by political and ideological biases. Pan-Turkist groups, who seek to assert a common Turkic heritage, often claim that the Massagetae, who are historically Iranic, could not be Turkic because they were enemies of the Persians. However, this view overlooks the complex and diverse historical tapestry of Central Asia.

Historically, linguistic affinity was not a significant factor in tribal identity. Tribes and clans were often in conflict, regardless of language or cultural similarities. The Uyghurs, for example, who were Turkic speakers, allied with the Tang dynasty against the Gokturks, and the Tatars, also Turkic speakers, engaged in violent conflicts with the Oghuz Turks.

Understanding Tomyris within her rightful historical context is crucial. Tomyris was a powerful and influential leader of the Saka peoples, and her actions and the historical account of the Massagetae clearly indicate an Iranic rather than a Turkic origin. Her place in history as a warrior queen and her impact on the region are best understood through the lens of Iranic history and culture.

Conclusion

The historical evidence firmly places Tomyris as an Iranic figure, leading her people in Central Asia during the 6th century BC. Her role and cultural background align more closely with the Saka peoples, who were known for their distinct Iranic identity. The claims that Tomyris was Turkic often stem from political agendas rather than historical accuracy.