Who was Antiochus III the Great, and what was his primary title?

Antiochus III the Great was the sixth ruler of the Seleucid Empire, reigning from 223 to 187 BC. He is known for assuming the epithet "the Great" and the title *Basileus Megas*, which means "Great King" in Greek and was traditionally held by Persian kings, signifying his ambition to restore the empire's former glory.

What was the approximate duration of Antiochus III's reign?

Antiochus III reigned for approximately 36 years, from 223 BC to 187 BC. This extended period allowed him to undertake significant military and political actions.

Who were Antiochus III's immediate predecessor and successor in the Seleucid Empire?

Antiochus III's predecessor was his brother, Seleucus III Ceraunus, who was murdered. His successor was his son, Seleucus IV Philopator.

Where and when was Antiochus III born?

Antiochus III was born around 241 BC near Susa, which was located in the Seleucid Empire at that time.

What significant event marked the end of Antiochus III's reign and his life?

Antiochus III died in 187 BC while on campaign in the east, specifically in Elymais, Persia, where he was pillaging a temple. This occurred after his major military setbacks, including his war against the Roman Republic.

What was Antiochus III's relationship with the Roman Republic?

Antiochus III's relationship with the Roman Republic became adversarial, culminating in a war he initiated in 192 BC. Despite his claims of championing Greek freedom, he was decisively defeated by the Romans at the Battle of Magnesia.

What traditional title did Antiochus III adopt, and what does it signify?

Antiochus III adopted the title *Basileus Megas*, meaning "Great King" in Greek. This title was historically used by Persian monarchs, indicating Antiochus's aspiration to emulate their imperial power and prestige.

What was the state of the Seleucid Empire when Antiochus III ascended to the throne?

Upon ascending the throne, Antiochus III inherited a disorganized state. The empire had lost significant territories, with Asia Minor becoming detached and eastern provinces like Bactria and Parthia breaking away.

Which eastern provinces had broken away from the Seleucid Empire before Antiochus III's reign?

Before Antiochus III's reign, the eastern provinces of Bactria had declared independence under Diodotus of Bactria, and Parthia had revolted under the satrap Andragoras, who was later overthrown by Arsaces.

What major internal rebellions did Antiochus III face early in his reign?

Early in his reign, Antiochus III had to contend with significant internal rebellions in Media and Persis, led by the brothers Molon and Alexander.

Who was the influential minister who advised Antiochus III during his early reign, and what was his fate?

The minister Hermeias held considerable influence over Antiochus III during his early reign. Antiochus eventually had Hermeias assassinated, likely due to his detrimental advice.

How did Achaeus, Antiochus III's cousin, pose a threat during his early reign?

Achaeus revolted and proclaimed himself king in Asia Minor, creating a significant internal challenge for Antiochus III. Although his rebellion was eventually suppressed, it diverted Seleucid resources.

What was the outcome of Antiochus III's initial campaign against Ptolemaic Syria?

Antiochus III's initial military campaign against Ptolemaic Syria was unsuccessful, resulting in a fiasco and disaster for the generals he dispatched.

What was the significance of the Battle of Raphia in 217 BC for Antiochus III?

The Battle of Raphia in 217 BC was a major setback for Antiochus III, as he was defeated by Ptolemy IV. This loss nullified his earlier territorial gains and forced a strategic withdrawal.

How did Antiochus III deal with the rebellion of his cousin Achaeus in Asia Minor?

Antiochus III personally led his army into western Anatolia to quell Achaeus's rebellion. He successfully drove Achaeus into the city of Sardis, captured him, and had him executed.

What territory did Antiochus III recover in Asia Minor after dealing with Achaeus?

After suppressing Achaeus's revolt, Antiochus III regained control over the central regions of Asia Minor, although he allowed local dynasties in Pergamon, Bithynia, and Cappadocia to persist.

What action did Antiochus III take against Xerxes of Sophene in 212 BC?

In 212 BC, Antiochus III besieged Xerxes of Sophene, who had refused to pay tribute to the Seleucid Empire, and compelled him to surrender.

What were Antiochus III's military actions in Parthia and Hyrcania in 209 BC?

In 209 BC, Antiochus III launched an invasion of Parthia, capturing its capital Hecatompylos and advancing into Hyrcania. He won the Battle of Mount Labus, after which the Parthian king Arsaces II negotiated for peace.

What was the outcome of Antiochus III's campaign in Bactria in 209 BC?

Antiochus III campaigned in Bactria in 209 BC, defeating Euthydemus I at the Battle of the Arius. After Euthydemus successfully defended his capital, Bactra, Antiochus granted him a favorable peace, arranging a marriage alliance for his daughter.

What significant expedition did Antiochus III undertake following his campaign in Bactria?

Following his Bactrian campaign, Antiochus III embarked on an expedition into the Kabul valley, reaching the territory of the Indian king Sophagasenus, and then returned westward through Seistan and Kerman.

What secret pact is Antiochus III said to have concluded with Philip V of Macedon?

Antiochus III is reported to have made a secret agreement with Philip V of Macedon to divide the territories of the Ptolemaic Kingdom. Macedon would gain territories around the Aegean and Cyrene, while Antiochus would annex Cyprus and Egypt.

What was the outcome of Antiochus III's campaign in Coele Syria and Phoenicia in 198 BC?

Antiochus III achieved a significant victory at the Battle of Panium in 198 BC, defeating Scopas of Aetolia. This battle effectively ended Ptolemaic rule in Judea and secured the province of Coele Syria for the Seleucid Empire.

What event marked the end of Ptolemaic rule in Judea?

The end of Ptolemaic rule in Judea occurred in 198 BC following Antiochus III's decisive victory over the Ptolemaic general Scopas at the Battle of Panium.

What actions by Antiochus III led to antagonism with the Roman Republic?

Antiochus III's expansionist activities in Asia Minor and his establishment of a base in Thrace around 196 BC brought him into conflict with the Roman Republic, which viewed these actions as a threat.

Who was at Antiochus III's court and urged him to act against Rome?

The Carthaginian general Hannibal, who was in exile, was present at Antiochus III's court and actively encouraged him to wage war against the Roman Republic.

When and where did Antiochus III invade Greece, and what was his initial reception?

Antiochus III invaded mainland Greece in the autumn of 192 BC with a relatively small army. Upon his arrival, he was elected commander-in-chief by the Aetolian League, indicating some initial support.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Thermopylae (191 BC) for Antiochus III?

The Battle of Thermopylae in 191 BC resulted in a significant defeat for Antiochus III, as his forces were routed by the Roman army led by Manius Acilius Glabrio, forcing his retreat back to Asia Minor.

What was the decisive battle that led to the Roman conquest of Asia Minor from Antiochus III?

The Roman victory at the Battle of Magnesia ad Sipylum in 190 BC, led by Scipio Asiaticus, was decisive in securing Roman dominance over Asia Minor and effectively ending Antiochus III's influence in the region.

What were the main terms of the Treaty of Apamea in 188 BC?

The Treaty of Apamea stipulated that Antiochus III must relinquish all territories west and north of the Taurus Mountains. The Roman Republic then granted much of this land to its allies, Rhodes and Eumenes II of Pergamon, while leaving some Greek cities independent.

What was the consequence of the Treaty of Apamea for the Seleucid Empire?

The Treaty of Apamea significantly weakened the Seleucid Empire. The loss of territory and the imposition of heavy terms led to the reassertion of independence by some of the empire's previously recovered outlying provinces.

How did Antiochus III die?

Antiochus III met his end in 187 BC during an expedition in Luristan, Persia. He was killed while attempting to plunder a temple dedicated to the god Bel in Elymais.

Who was Antiochus III's first wife, and what was her lineage?

Antiochus III's first wife was Princess Laodice III, who was his cousin. She was the daughter of King Mithridates II of Pontus and Princess Laodice of the Seleucid Empire.

How many children did Antiochus III have with Laodice III?

Antiochus III and his first wife, Laodice III, had a total of eight children, consisting of three sons and five daughters.

Which of Antiochus III's sons succeeded him as ruler of the Seleucid Empire?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes, originally named Mithridates, succeeded his brother Seleucus IV Philopator, who was Antiochus III's direct successor.

Which of Antiochus III's daughters married Ptolemy V Epiphanes of Egypt?

Cleopatra I Syra, one of Antiochus III's daughters, married Ptolemy V Epiphanes of Egypt in 193 BC, forging a significant political alliance.

Who was Antiochus IV Epiphanes, and what was his relationship to Antiochus III?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes was a son of Antiochus III. He initially bore the name Mithridates and later succeeded his brother Seleucus IV Philopator as king in 175 BC, adopting the regnal name Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

Did Antiochus III marry a second time? If so, to whom and with what result?

Yes, Antiochus III married a second time to a woman from Chalcis whom he named Euboea. This marriage, which occurred in 191 BC, did not produce any children.

How did Antiochus III interact with the Jewish population in his empire?

Antiochus III was known for his favorable policies towards the Jews. He resettled Jewish families from Babylonia into Asia Minor and provided support to the Temple in Jerusalem, allowing them to practice their traditions.

What specific actions did Antiochus III take to support the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem?

Antiochus III provided financial support to the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem through grants and subventions, demonstrating his respect for the institution.

In which biblical books is Antiochus III mentioned?

Antiochus III is mentioned in the deuterocanonical Books of the Maccabees, specifically in the first book, 1 Maccabees.

How is Antiochus III's defeat by the Romans referenced in 1 Maccabees?

1 Maccabees 8:6-8 recounts the Roman Republic's victory over Antiochus the Great, detailing the scale of his army, including 120 elephants, and the subsequent imposition of heavy tribute and territorial concessions by the Romans.

How was Antiochus III depicted in the Caroline era play "Believe as You List"?

In the play "Believe as You List," Antiochus III was portrayed as a figure resisting Roman expansion after the Battle of Thermopylae. This portrayal was part of a revised narrative, as the original play about Sebastian of Portugal was censored.

In what context does Antiochus III appear in Norman Barrow's novel "The High Priest"?

Antiochus III appears in Norman Barrow's novel "The High Priest" near the conclusion, following the Seleucid recapture of Jerusalem from Ptolemaic forces.

What are some of the key historical periods and entities associated with Antiochus III mentioned in the "See also" section?

The "See also" section connects Antiochus III to the broader history of Syrian monarchs, the timeline of Syrian history, and the geographical region of Asia.

What is one of the primary sources cited for information on Antiochus III's reign?

The ancient historian Polybius is a key source cited for information regarding Antiochus III's military campaigns and reign.

What external resources are provided for further information on Antiochus III?

For further study, external resources include a biographical entry on Livius.org, a dedicated page on Seleucid Genealogy, and a collection of related media on Wikimedia Commons.

Who were Antiochus III's parents?

Antiochus III's parents were King Seleucus II Callinicus and Queen Laodice II.

What was Antiochus III's religious affiliation?

Antiochus III adhered to the practice of Greek polytheism, which was common among Hellenistic rulers.

Besides his first wife Laodice III, who else did Antiochus III marry?

Antiochus III also married a woman from Chalcis whom he named Euboea.

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Antiochus III: The Great King

Sovereign of an Expansive Realm

Antiochus III, often lauded as "the Great," was the sixth ruler of the Seleucid Empire, reigning from 223 to 187 BC. His extensive dominion encompassed Syria and significant portions of Western Asia. Ascending to the throne at a young age, Antiochus III dedicated his reign to restoring and expanding the Seleucid territories, earning him the epithet "the Great" and the adoption of the Persian title Basileus Megas (Great King).

A Hellenistic Power Broker

Antiochus III's reign was marked by a dynamic interplay of military strategy, diplomatic maneuvering, and administrative reforms. He navigated the complex geopolitical landscape of the Hellenistic successor states, engaging in significant conflicts with the Ptolemaic Kingdom and, crucially, confronting the burgeoning power of the Roman Republic. His efforts to reassert Seleucid dominance profoundly influenced the trajectory of the ancient Near East.

A Reign of Transformation

His long and eventful reign saw the Seleucid Empire reach its zenith in terms of territorial extent and military might since the time of Seleucus I Nicator. However, his ultimate confrontation with Rome at the Battle of Magnesia marked a significant turning point, curtailing his ambitions and reshaping the balance of power in the Mediterranean world.

Origins and Early Reign

Dynastic Roots and Succession

Born circa 241 BC in Susa, Persia, Antiochus III was a scion of the Seleucid dynasty, the ruling house established by Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander the Great's generals. He was the son of King Seleucus II Callinicus and Queen Laodice II. Antiochus III ascended to the throne in April/June 223 BC, succeeding his brother, Seleucus III Ceraunus, who was assassinated in Anatolia. At the time of his accession, Antiochus was approximately eighteen years old.

Inheriting a Fractured Realm

Antiochus III inherited a Seleucid state beset by internal strife and external challenges. Significant territories, including Bactria and Parthia, had previously declared independence. Furthermore, shortly after his accession, the eastern provinces of Media and Persis revolted under the governors Molon and Alexander. The young king's initial response, influenced by his minister Hermeias, focused on a campaign against Ptolemaic Syria rather than directly confronting the internal rebellions, a strategic choice that proved initially unsuccessful.

Suppressing Rebellions and Consolidating Power

The early years of his reign were dominated by the need to quell internal dissent. After a disastrous campaign in Syria, Antiochus III turned his attention eastward. He personally led a successful campaign that led to the collapse of the rebellion in Media and Persis by 221 BC. Following this, he addressed the secessionist movements in Asia Minor, eventually capturing and executing his cousin Achaeus, who had declared himself king.

Military Campaigns and Expansion

Eastern Reconquests

Antiochus III embarked on ambitious military expeditions to reclaim lost territories. In 209 BC, he invaded Bactria, engaging the Greco-Bactrian king Euthydemus I. Although Euthydemus offered stiff resistance, Antiochus eventually secured a peace treaty, solidifying his influence. He then ventured into India, reaching the realm of King Sophagasenus, and returned via Persia and Kerman, reinforcing Seleucid authority across vast eastern regions. This extensive eastern campaign earned him the title "the Great."

Campaigns in the West

Following his eastern successes, Antiochus III turned his attention to the western territories and the ongoing conflict with the Ptolemaic Kingdom. He campaigned in Coele Syria and Phoenicia, culminating in the decisive Battle of Panium in 198 BC, which ended Ptolemaic rule in Judea and brought these regions firmly under Seleucid control.

Confrontation with Rome

Antiochus III's expansionist policies eventually brought him into direct conflict with the rising power of Rome. His establishment of a foothold in Thrace and his intervention in Greek affairs, positioning himself as a champion of Greek freedom against Roman dominance, led to the Roman-Seleucid War. In 192 BC, he invaded Greece, but was decisively defeated by the Romans at the Battle of Thermopylae and later at the Battle of Magnesia in 190 BC. The subsequent Treaty of Apamea (188 BC) significantly curtailed his empire, forcing him to cede territories west of the Taurus Mountains.

Family and Succession

Marriages and Offspring

In 222 BC, Antiochus III married his first cousin, Princess Laodice III of Pontus. Their union produced eight children: three sons and five daughters. His eldest son, Antiochus, served as heir apparent and co-king. His successor, Seleucus IV Philopator, and his eventual successor as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, were also among his children. His daughters, including Cleopatra I Syra, played significant roles in dynastic alliances, notably marrying into the Ptolemaic dynasty of Egypt.

Antiochus (221–193 BC): Heir apparent and co-king.
Seleucus IV Philopator (c. 220–175 BC): Successor.
Ardys: Daughter.
Unnamed Daughter: Betrothed to Demetrius I of Bactria.
Laodice IV: Married three of her brothers sequentially.
Cleopatra I Syra (c. 204–176 BC): Married Ptolemy V Epiphanes of Egypt.
Antiochis: Married Ariarathes IV of Cappadocia.
Mithridates (215–164 BC): Later known as Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

Antiochus III later married a woman from Chalcis, whom he named "Euboea," though they had no children.

Dynastic Continuity

The succession of his son Seleucus IV Philopator ensured the continuation of the Seleucid dynasty, albeit under the shadow of Roman influence following the Treaty of Apamea. The complex familial relationships and marriages underscore the intricate dynastic politics of the Hellenistic era, where alliances were often sealed through royal unions.

Antiochus III and the Jews

Favorable Policies

Antiochus III is notably depicted as being favorably disposed towards the Jewish population of Jerusalem. Historical accounts suggest he resettled approximately 2,000 Jewish families from Babylonia into the regions of Lydia and Phrygia in Anatolia. Josephus portrays Antiochus III as a ruler who respected Jewish customs, lowered taxes, and provided subventions to the Temple, fostering a period of relative peace and loyalty.

Mention in Maccabees

Antiochus III is referenced in the deuterocanonical Books of the Maccabees. While these texts primarily focus on the subsequent Maccabean Revolt against his son, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, they acknowledge Antiochus III's earlier reign and his interactions with the region. Specifically, 1 Maccabees 8 alludes to the Roman Republic's victory over Antiochus the Great, highlighting the significant impact of this conflict on the geopolitical landscape of Judea.

Cultural Portrayals and Legacy

Artistic and Literary Representations

Antiochus III's life and reign have been subjects of artistic and literary interest. His historical narrative, particularly his conflict with Rome, influenced later works. For instance, a Caroline-era play, Believe as You List, was adapted to feature Antiochus's resistance to Roman influence, albeit with historical inaccuracies to fit the dramatic narrative. His reign is also referenced in historical novels, reflecting his enduring significance in the annals of ancient history.

Shaping the Hellenistic World

Antiochus III's reign represented a crucial period for the Seleucid Empire, marked by significant territorial expansion and military achievements. While his ultimate defeat by Rome signaled a shift in regional power dynamics, his efforts to consolidate and expand the empire left a lasting imprint on the Hellenistic world. His legacy is that of a formidable ruler who, despite facing formidable challenges, significantly shaped the political and cultural landscape of his era.

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References

This identification is probably wrong: Fittschen, Klaus (2022/2023). "LesefrÃ¼chte IX". In: Boreas 45/46, pp. 95-113, especially pp. 96-103.

[1]

A full list of references for this article are available at the Antiochus III the Great Wikipedia page

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Antiochus the Great

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Antiochus III: The Great King ℹ️

👑 Sovereign of an Expansive Realm

🗺️ A Hellenistic Power Broker

⏳ A Reign of Transformation

Origins and Early Reign 📜

👨‍👦 Dynastic Roots and Succession

🌪️ Inheriting a Fractured Realm

⚔️ Suppressing Rebellions and Consolidating Power

Military Campaigns and Expansion ⚔️

🌍 Eastern Reconquests

🌊 Campaigns in the West

🏛️ Confrontation with Rome

Family and Succession 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

💍 Marriages and Offspring

👑 Dynastic Continuity

Antiochus III and the Jews 📜

🤝 Favorable Policies

📖 Mention in Maccabees

Cultural Portrayals and Legacy 🏛️

🎭 Artistic and Literary Representations

🌐 Shaping the Hellenistic World

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Antiochus III: The Great King

Sovereign of an Expansive Realm

A Hellenistic Power Broker

A Reign of Transformation

Origins and Early Reign

Dynastic Roots and Succession

Inheriting a Fractured Realm

Suppressing Rebellions and Consolidating Power

Military Campaigns and Expansion

Eastern Reconquests

Campaigns in the West

Confrontation with Rome

Family and Succession

Marriages and Offspring

Dynastic Continuity

Antiochus III and the Jews

Favorable Policies

Mention in Maccabees

Cultural Portrayals and Legacy

Artistic and Literary Representations

Shaping the Hellenistic World

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice