Tanukhids

Origins

Arabic tradition says the Tanukh were a coalition of tribes that migrated from eastern Arabia into Iraq, where some settled around al-Hira, while others moved into Syria in the later 3rd century. There they became foederati, allies who guarded the desert frontier for Rome in return for subsidies.

Rule and society

The Tanukhids were pastoral and semi-settled Arabs who adopted Christianity during the 4th century. Their best-known leader is Mavia, who around 378 led a revolt that ravaged Palestine and Phoenicia and ended only when Valens agreed to her demand for an orthodox Arab hermit, Moses, as bishop of her people. Her troops then helped defend Constantinople against the Goths after the battle of Adrianople. Little else about their organisation is recorded.

Decline and legacy

In the 5th century the Salihids replaced them as Rome's leading Arab allies. Tanukh clans remained in northern Syria around Qinnasrin and Aleppo, accepted Islam after the Arab conquest, and later Tanukhid families played a part in the history of Mount Lebanon.