Abstract
Jean-Marie Durand's recent edition of the correspondence of themerʾûm (grazing) chiefs, Bannum, Ašmad and Hali-hadun - to whom must be added Zakura-abum, whose letters have been published separately -, preserved in the palace of Mari and dating from the reign of Zimri-Lim, finally enables us to pinpoint in great detail this essential function of the Mari regime and its economy. Their letters are sometimes distinguished by a particularly lively tone and a lofty viewpoint, made possible by the relative freedom of expression allowed by their very high political rank. A comprehensive study of their successors, Ibal-pi-El and Ibal-El, is still lacking, however, if the picture is to be truly complete. Their authority only extended to the transhumant group belonging to the Simalite "confederation". The other major confederation, that of the Yaminites, was very similarly organized, but remains less well documented, insofar as its chiefs, although vassals of Mari, enjoyed greater autonomy. The function of pastoral chief appears to have been singular, and is currently only attested for semi-nomadic groups in the Middle Euphrates.
