Love and Affection in Hittite Texts

Abstract

This chapter examines the expression of love in the written sources of the Hittites, and the contexts within and intentions with which love is expressed. The Hittites distinguished several kinds of love, from pure desire and strong attraction to altruistic devotion. Sometimes these types are distinguished by different terms, while at other times, they are described using the same term. The focus of the present overview is on those types of love in which attachment and care are central. It is demonstrated that both the love of the gods for humans and the love of the ruler for his country and subjects are conceptualized like the love of parents for their children. This kind of love manifests itself primarily in action: the loving person takes care of the beloved ones, protects them, and provides for them. The Hittite texts also refer to physical involvement: the loving person turns his or her eyes and ear to the loved ones and sheds tears when something negative happens to them. The love between humans and the gods’ love for humans are interrelated. Divine love for humanity is a prerequisite for human well-being, including sexuality, reproduction, and interpersonal love. Conversely, human quarrels and misbehavior evoke the wrath of the gods, which in turn makes love cease. The Hittites therefore strive not to arouse the anger of the gods or – if this does not succeed – to make the gods turn to them again with benevolence. According to Hittite conception, it is not hate and indifference that stand in opposition to love but rather anger and wrath.