| Abgarid | |
|---|---|
| Country | Edessa, Osroene |
| Founded | 134 BC |
| Current head | Extinct |
| Final ruler | Abgar X Frahad (only in name) |
| Dissolution | 242 AD |
The Abgarid dynasty was a dynasty of Nabataean Arab origin.[1][2] Members of the dynasty, the Abgarids, reigned between 134 BC and 242 AD over Edessa and Osroene in Upper Mesopotamia.[1] Some members of the dynasty bore Iranian names, while others had Arabic names, including Abgar itself.[3] J.B. Segal notes that the names ending in "-u" are "undoubtedly Nabatean".[3] The Abgarid dynasts spoke "a form of Aramaic".[3]
Following the Battle of Carrhae (53 BC), members of the dynasty pursued a broadly pro-Parthian policy for about two centuries.[3] At the turn of the 2nd century AD, the Romans turned Osroene into a Roman client state.[3] During Caracalla's reign (r. 198–217), most likely in 214, Abgar IX Severus was deposed and Osroene was incorporated as a Roman province (colonia).[3] Thereafter, Abgarid dynasts only ruled in name.[3] Abgar X Frahad, the last nominal Abgarid ruler, settled in Rome together with his wife.[3]