Amar-Sin

Amar-Sin (Sumerian: 𒀭𒀫𒂗𒍪, D.amar.^dEN.ZU) was the third king of the Ur III dynasty. He reigned from approximately 2046 BC to 2038 BC (middle chronology). He succeeded his father, Shulgi, and was succeeded by his brother, Shu-Sin.

Amar-Sin's reign, though relatively short, is well documented through cuneiform inscriptions and administrative texts. Like his father, he continued the process of centralizing the Ur III state and standardizing its administration. He also continued the practice of deifying the ruler, being referred to in inscriptions as a god.

Notable aspects of his reign include:

• Military Campaigns: Amar-Sin conducted military campaigns primarily in the northern regions, including areas around Urbilum and possibly against the Hurrians. These campaigns aimed to secure the borders of the empire and ensure the flow of resources.

• Building Projects: He oversaw significant building projects, including the construction and restoration of temples dedicated to various deities throughout Sumer and Akkad. The ziggurat at Eridu, dedicated to Enki, was one such project.

• Administrative Reforms: He continued the administrative practices established by his predecessors, focusing on efficient tax collection, resource management, and maintaining a centralized bureaucracy. Numerous clay tablets from his reign provide detailed insights into the economic and administrative life of the Ur III period.

• Death: According to one tradition, Amar-Sin died from an infection after being kicked by a bull. Other accounts attribute his death to divine punishment.