The epithet Τιαμου of the Moon-god in Lydia

Abstract

Abstract This article discusses the origin of the epithet Τιαμου, which modifies the name of the Moon-god in a number of Greek inscriptions from Lydia dated to the 2nd-3rd century AD. All the etymological explanations provided so far will be taken into account, especially the Anatolian one, which, based on the existence of a Moon-god (κατα)χθόνιος, tries to establish a connection between Τιαμου and an Anatolian outcome of the PIE root for ‘earth’ (cf. Hitt. tēkan, Luw. tiyamm(i)-). After having discussed the arguments in favour and against both a Lydian and a Luwian origin, it will be argued that the latter seems to be most likely, although the possibility of a Lydian mediation remains.