Reconstructing the semantic and cultural origins of qnuma: A historical-linguistic study in the Aramaic-Syriac tradition

Abstract

This study reconstructs the semantic and cultural origins of Qnuma, examining its transformation from a legal and philosophical concept into a theological construct within Syriac Christianity. Through historical-linguistic, philological, and semantic analysis, this research explores how Qnuma was initially utilized in legal, administrative, and existential discourse before being incorporated into Christian theological debates. The study draws from Aramaic and Syriac manuscripts, legal documents, and comparative linguistic analysis, particularly about Akkadian and Hebrew influences.

Methodologically, this research employs historical-linguistic tracing, philological studies, and semantic comparisons, analyzing ancient legal and philosophical texts to reveal how Qnuma evolved. The study highlights how Qnuma, tied initially to personal identity and social hierarchy in early Semitic traditions, later became integral to Trinitarian and Christological debates in Syriac Christianity.

Findings indicate that Qnuma played a crucial role in shaping identity within legal and religious traditions, reinforcing its significance across multiple domains of ancient thought. The study's interdisciplinary approach contributes to historical linguistics, Semitic studies, and theological research, offering a clearer perspective on the linguistic transformation of existential terminology. Future research should explore comparative linguistic influences between Semitic and Indo-European traditions, expanding our understanding of identity and existence across ancient civilizations.