The Hattian and Hittite civilizations

The Hittite kings acceded to the throne through inheritance, according to the edict of succession established by King Telipinus. Respectful of the people, the Hittite king was a primus inter pares, that is, "first among equals", in contrast to the cruel sovereigns of Egypt and Mesopotamia, who considered themselves to be gods. As we see in the political testament of Hattusilis I, the nobles were not subject to the decision of the king; instead, subjects of dispute were considered by and decided upon by the Pnakus (a council of nobles).