Linear B Monogram B133 Arepa

A monogram transcribed a-re-pa and glossed as “ointment.”

Linear B was used to write Mycenaean Greek, an early form of Greek. On Pylos tablet PY Un 718, an unclear a-re-ro sequence sits just before the sign; scholars connect this context with the reading a-re-pa. The “ointment” gloss comes from the tablet’s accounting context.

How did scribes build this monogram?

It combines signs for the syllables of a word.

Linear B scribes could assemble such monograms when useful, following a principle also seen with other word-signs. B133’s elements run upward on PY Un 718 and Wr 1437, and downward on Fr 1198, Un 6, and Un 853. Their direction was not fixed. Linear A was an earlier Aegean script; Linear B was used for Mycenaean Greek and palace records.

What if someone sends 𐂘 alone?

Treat it as a historical reference unless the conversation supplies context.

A lone modern send does not show that the sender means ointment; that reading comes from an ancient accounting record. If the conversation is not already about Linear B, ask what they intend.