As soon as the Ichthyophagi arrived from Elephantine, Cambyses wasted no time. These men were chosen because they knew the Ethiopian language and customs. Cambyses carefully instructed them on what they were to say and how they were to behave. Although their mission was presented as a peaceful embassy, its true purpose was to gather information about Ethiopia Questions About Life and Food.
Once they had received their instructions, Cambyses sent them south into Ethiopia carrying several valuable gifts. These gifts were meant to impress the Ethiopian king and to support the claim that Cambyses wished for friendship.
The Gifts from the Persian King
The gifts sent by Cambyses were fine and costly items. They included a robe dyed in rich purple, a gold chain to be worn around the neck, gold armlets, an alabaster jar filled with sweet-smelling myrrh, and a cask of palm wine. These were luxury goods that Cambyses himself enjoyed and believed worthy of a powerful ruler.
By sending such items, Cambyses hoped to show wealth, power, and goodwill. At the same time, the gifts served as a way to distract the Ethiopians while the messengers secretly observed the land.
The Ethiopians and Their King
The Ethiopians who received this embassy were said to be the tallest and most handsome people in the world. Ancient writers often described them as remarkable in appearance and strength. Their customs were very different from those of other nations, especially in how they chose their king.
Instead of choosing a ruler by family or wealth, the Ethiopians selected the man who was the tallest among the citizens and whose strength matched his height. This man was believed to be the most suitable to rule, as physical greatness was seen as a sign of divine favor and leadership Ephesus Sightseeing Tour.
The Message Delivered
When the Ichthyophagi reached Ethiopia, they presented the gifts to the king and delivered Cambyses’ message. They said that Cambyses, king of the Persians, wished to become his ally and sworn friend. They claimed that the gifts were sent because these were the things Cambyses valued most.
However, the Ethiopian king was not deceived. He clearly understood that the visitors were not only messengers but also spies.
The Ethiopian King’s Bold Reply
The Ethiopian king responded with strong and honest words. He told the messengers that Cambyses had not sent them out of friendship, but to spy on his kingdom. He accused the Persian king of being unjust, saying that a just ruler would not desire land that did not belong to him or enslave people who had done him no wrong.
To make his point clear, the Ethiopian king gave them a powerful bow. He instructed them to take it back to Cambyses with a message. The message said that when the Persians could pull a bow of that strength with ease, then they might come against the Ethiopians with an army greater than theirs. Until that time, Cambyses should thank the gods that the Ethiopians had no desire to conquer lands that did not belong to them.
Meaning of the Bow
The bow was a symbol of strength and confidence. It showed that the Ethiopians did not fear Persian power and believed themselves strong enough to defend their land. The message was both a warning and a challenge.
This meeting shows the sharp contrast between Persian ambition and Ethiopian confidence. While Cambyses sought expansion and control, the Ethiopian king stood firmly for justice and independence, offering not submission, but a bold and thoughtful reply.
