Bur-Suen II King of Isin, reigned approximately 1896–1874 BC. Date of Birth: . Country: Operator

1. Reign of Bur-Sin II, King of Isin (c. 1896 – 1874 BCE)
2. Expansion and Challenges
3. Rivalry with Larsa
4. Internal Governance
5. Cultural Legacy
6. Chronology and Reign Length

Reign of Bur-Sin II, King of Isin (c. 1896 – 1874 BCE)

Bur-Sin II ascended to the throne of Isin circa 1896 BCE, inheriting the legacy of his father, Ur-Ninurta. As a king, he adopted various titles, such as "Shepherd who Nourishes Nippur," "Mighty Ploughman of Ur," "Restorer of Eridu," and "Priest-Ruler of Uruk," indicating his aspirations to reign over these significant cities.

Expansion and Challenges

Initially, Bur-Sin II may have extended his authority over a substantial territory, including Isin, Nippur, Uruk, Kisurra, Ur, and Eridu. However, this ambitious expansion faced challenges from nomadic pastoral tribes in the northern provinces. In 1895 BCE, Sumu-abum, the chieftain of the Amorite tribe Yahru'rum, seized Babylonia and established an independent kingdom, while Amorite kingdoms gained strength in Kazallu and Kish.

Rivalry with Larsa

The rise of Larsa under Sumu-el, the successor of Abisarhi, posed a significant threat to Bur-Sin II's rule. Sumu-el launched a series of campaigns against the north, defeating Казаллу, Uruk, Kish, and capturing towns沿 the Euphrates River. This advance left Bur-Sin II's kingdom vulnerable.

Internal Governance

Despite the external challenges, Bur-Sin II implemented measures to strengthen his internal administration. He reduced the labor tax on royal households to 48 days per year per family and lowered the ni-tara tax on the general population from one-fifth to one-tenth of their income. These reforms aimed to foster support and stability within his realm.

Cultural Legacy

Bur-Sin II is celebrated in a laudatory hymn that attributes his authority to the deity Enlil. Archaeological discoveries from his reign include a reddish-brown agate statuette dedicated to the goddess Inanna, a small agate plaque dedicated to a priestess and the king's "companion in life," Nansea Ibsa, and a dog figurine dedicated to the goddess Nin-Isin "for the life of the king." Additionally, several seals and seal impressions of Bur-Sin II's officials and scribes have been found, suggesting a structured bureaucracy.

Chronology and Reign Length

The exact chronology of Bur-Sin II's reign remains uncertain, with only nine of his year names recorded. Most of these year names commemorate building projects, temple offerings, and a single canal excavation, with no mention of military victories. The lack of archaeological evidence hinders a complete historical reconstruction of this period.

According to the Sumerian King List, Bur-Sin II ruled for 21 years, while the King List of Ur and Isin assigns him 22 years of reign.