NabataeerSchrift

The Nabataean script was an ancient Semitic alphabet used by the Nabataeans from the 4th century BCE to the 4th century CE. It originated from the Aramaic script and is considered a direct ancestor of the modern Arabic alphabet. The script was written from right to left. Initially, it was primarily used for inscriptions on stone and pottery, as well as for commercial and administrative purposes. Over time, it evolved into a cursive form, which facilitated its use on papyrus and parchment.

Nabataean script is characterized by its flowing, connected letters, a feature that became more pronounced as the script developed. This cursive tendency is a significant reason for its importance in the evolution of Arabic calligraphy. Many scholars believe that the distinctive shapes of Arabic letters, particularly the dots that differentiate similar forms, were influenced by the need to distinguish letters in the cursive Nabataean script.

Notable examples of Nabataean inscriptions can be found in archaeological sites such as Petra in Jordan, a major Nabataean city. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into the Nabataean language, culture, and trade. The decipherment of the Nabataean script was crucial for understanding this ancient civilization. Its legacy is most evident in the direct lineage it shares with the Arabic script, which is used by hundreds of millions of people today.