The Lamentation over the Destruction of Ur

The Lamentation over the Destruction of Ur is a scholarly examination of the fall of the Ur III kingdom in 2004 B.C.E. This volume focuses on the unique genre of Sumerian elegiac poetry, specifically the city-laments that mourn the loss of urban centers and temples. As a primary example of ancient Near East literature, this work highlights the parallels between Sumerian texts and biblical literature.

Nili Samet provides a revised edition of The Lamentation over the Destruction of Ur, offering a detailed analysis of these Sumerian language texts. This volume includes a comprehensive transliteration and translation of the original work, supported by philological commentary and a score format of extant textual witnesses. Color plates and an introductory discussion on the nature of city-laments make this a thorough resource for students of ancient history and linguistics.