The Behistun Inscription stands as one of the most important historical artifacts of the ancient world, offering insight into the reign of Darius the Great and his monumental achievements. Carved into a cliffside on Mount Behistun, it was instrumental in the decipherment of cuneiform script, much like the Rosetta Stone was for Egyptian hieroglyphs. The inscription is a multilingual declaration of Darius’s victories and his rise to power, playing a crucial role in shaping our understanding of ancient Persian history.
What is the Behistun Inscription?

The Behistun Inscription is a large relief and accompanying text located on a cliff near the city of Kermanshah in Iran. Created under the orders of King Darius I of Persia around 520 BCE, the inscription details his ascent to the throne and his triumphs over various rebellious factions within the empire. Written in three different languages—Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian—the inscription serves as both a historical account and a political declaration.
The Historical Context
The Behistun Inscription was created during the reign of Darius the Great, who ruled the Achaemenid Empire from 522 to 486 BCE. Darius is known for consolidating power across a vast empire that stretched from Egypt to India. The inscription was a declaration of his legitimate rule following the overthrow of the previous king, Gaumata, and a testament to his efforts in quelling rebellions that erupted after his accession to the throne.
Discovery of the Behistun Inscription
Although the inscription had been known locally for centuries, its significance was not understood until the 19th century. In 1835, British army officer and scholar Sir Henry Rawlinson began studying the inscription and played a pivotal role in deciphering its text. His work would eventually unlock the secrets of cuneiform writing, opening the doors to understanding other ancient Mesopotamian cultures.
Location of the Behistun Inscription

The Behistun Inscription is carved into a limestone cliff face on Mount Behistun, located in present-day Iran. The sheer height and remote location made it difficult for early scholars to access, and its position high above the ground has contributed to its preservation over the centuries. The mountainous region is rugged, adding to the challenge faced by those who sought to study the inscription.
Languages Used in the Behistun Inscription

Darius the Great had the inscription written in three different languages: Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian. These were the major administrative languages of the empire, and their inclusion ensured that the message could be understood by a wide audience. The use of multiple languages was a strategic choice, as it emphasized the reach and power of the Persian Empire across diverse cultures.
The Purpose of the Inscription
Darius’s goal in commissioning the Behistun Inscription was to solidify his claim to the throne and showcase his victories over the various rebels who opposed his rule. The inscription was a public declaration of his legitimacy, as well as a warning to any future would-be usurpers. It also served to communicate the extent of Darius’s power and the unity of his empire.
The Story Told by the Behistun Inscription
The inscription tells the story of Darius’s rise to power, beginning with the assassination of the previous ruler, Gaumata. It details the various revolts that Darius had to put down, each led by a rebellious leader claiming the throne for themselves. Darius’s narrative emphasizes his divine right to rule, as he credits the god Ahura Mazda for his victories and successful leadership.
The Importance of the Behistun Inscription for Deciphering Cuneiform
The Behistun Inscription is often compared to the Rosetta Stone because of its key role in deciphering ancient scripts. Prior to its discovery, cuneiform writing had largely remained a mystery. Sir Henry Rawlinson’s work on the Old Persian text provided the foundation for the translation of Elamite and Babylonian, leading to a broader understanding of cuneiform across Mesopotamian cultures.
Key Figures Mentioned in the Inscription
Darius the Great is, of course, the central figure of the Behistun Inscription, but the text also names several of the rebel leaders he defeated. These include Gaumata, the usurper he overthrew, and various provincial leaders who rose up against his rule. The inscription portrays these figures as traitors to the empire, while emphasizing Darius’s role as the rightful and divinely-appointed ruler.
The Artistic Representation
Alongside the text, the Behistun Inscription features a detailed relief carving. This depicts Darius standing victorious over the fallen rebel leaders, with Ahura Mazda floating above, symbolizing divine approval. The relief is not just a visual representation of Darius’s triumphs but also a powerful piece of political propaganda.
The Work of Sir Henry Rawlinson
Sir Henry Rawlinson’s contribution to the study of the Behistun Inscription cannot be overstated. His careful transcription of the Old Persian text, followed by his translation of the Elamite and Babylonian sections, unlocked the mysteries of cuneiform writing. Rawlinson’s work laid the groundwork for modern studies of ancient Mesopotamian cultures and languages.
The Cultural and Historical Significance
The Behistun Inscription is a cornerstone for historians, archaeologists, and linguists studying the ancient Near East. It provides a firsthand account of Darius’s rule, offering insight into the political and cultural dynamics of the Achaemenid Empire. Furthermore, it played a critical role in the decipherment of cuneiform, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the history of writing.
The Preservation of the Behistun Inscription
Over the centuries, natural erosion and weathering have threatened the preservation of the Behistun Inscription. However, due to its high position on the cliff face, it has remained relatively well-preserved. Today, efforts are underway to ensure that this ancient artifact is protected for future generations through modern preservation techniques and digital documentation.
Conclusion
The Behistun Inscription is more than just a piece of ancient art; it is a window into the past, providing invaluable insights into the reign of Darius the Great, the politics of the Achaemenid Empire, and the origins of written language. Its significance, both