Almaqah

Almaqah was a principal deity in the ancient South Arabian pantheon, worshipped primarily in the kingdoms of Saba and Himyar. He was often depicted as a powerful bull god, symbolizing strength and fertility. His name is thought to be related to the Semitic root "q-h" which can mean "to gather" or "to assemble," suggesting his role as a unifying or protective deity.

Evidence for Almaqah's worship comes from numerous inscriptions found across Yemen, where he is frequently invoked in prayers and dedications. His cult was particularly prominent in Marib, the capital of Saba, where his temple, the Mahram Bilqis, was a significant religious center. This temple, a grand ruin today, features a massive precinct and numerous stelae bearing inscriptions dedicated to the god.

Almaqah was associated with several attributes. He was considered a god of the sky, storms, and thunder, and was also believed to grant victory in battle. His role as a protector of the land and its people was paramount. He was often depicted with a thunderbolt or a spear, further emphasizing his martial and celestial aspects. The bull imagery further reinforced his association with virility, abundance, and the power of nature. His worship likely played a crucial role in the social and political fabric of ancient South Arabian societies, underpinning their authority and identity.