Latin inscription CIL III 90 in the context of the history of Roman Orient. Old and new interpretations

A Latin inscription from the Ancient City of Bosra, CIL III 90, dedicated to Roman governor Aelius Aurelius Theon (c. 253–259 AD), has been reinterpreted to clarify its historical context. Contrary to earlier assumptions, the abbreviation 'VET' does not refer to a province named 'Old Arabia.' Instead, it signifies 'former' (vetus), indicating the inscription honors a previous governor. This interpretation is supported by analysis of administrative structures in the Roman Empire and a papyrus letter mentioning 'New Arabia,' debunking the notion that such provinces ever existed.

Bukharin, M. D. (2021). Latin inscription CIL III 90 in the context of the history of Roman Orient. Old and new interpretations. Orientalistica, 4(3), 561–570. https://doi.org/10.31696/2618-7043-2021-4-3-561-570