Cyrus Cylinder

The Cyrus Cylinder, often referred to as the Cyrus Charter, is an ancient clay artifact dating back to the 6th century BC. It features a declaration written in Akkadian cuneiform script attributed to Cyrus the Great, the Achaemenid king of Persia. Discovered in Babylon in 1879, the Cylinder praises Cyrus for his benevolent acts, such as restoring temples, repatriating displaced peoples, and rebuilding sanctuaries. It also portrays the defeated Babylonian king Nabonidus as a tyrant, while presenting Cyrus as a ruler chosen by the Babylonian god Marduk.

Scholars have long debated the significance of the Cyrus Cylinder. Some interpret it as evidence of Cyrus’ policy of allowing Jewish exiles to return to their homeland, while others argue that the text primarily focuses on Mesopotamian sanctuaries rather than the Jewish people specifically. The last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, famously hailed the Cylinder as an early declaration of human rights, a view that many historians criticize as anachronistic. The Shah used the Cylinder to promote Iran's ancient heritage and its commitment to human rights.

The Cylinder was discovered in 1879 by Hormuzd Rassam in Babylon, and it consists of two main fragments, labeled "A" and "B." The inscriptions highlight Cyrus' genealogy and policies, divided into sections that praise him, detail his royal titles, and emphasize his efforts in restoring Babylon. These inscriptions are similar to earlier Mesopotamian royal texts, suggesting a tradition of legitimizing rulership through religious and political rhetoric.

The idea of the Cyrus Cylinder as a human rights charter has been heavily scrutinized. While the Shah of Iran celebrated it as a symbol of human rights, many historians argue that it was more likely a conventional building inscription meant to glorify Cyrus' rule. Despite this, the Cylinder has been displayed around the world, sparking debates about its historical and political significance.

In modern times, the legacy of the Cyrus Cylinder endures. A sculpture inspired by the artifact, named the Freedom Sculpture, has been erected in Los Angeles to honor its historical importance. The Cylinder remains a subject of scholarly discussion and a powerful symbol of cultural heritage and political narratives.