Antiochus IX Philopator (Kyzikenos)

Life and Reign

Antiochus IX Philopator, also known as Kyzikenos (* around 135 BC; † 96 BC), was a king of the Seleucid Empire who ruled in the late 2nd century and early 1st century BC. He was the son of Cleopatra Thea and VII Antiochus Sidetes.

Early Life

After the death of his father in 129 BC, his mother sent him to discover the existence of his father on the Bosphorus River (where he was called Antiochus). He returned to Syria in 116 BC. At this time, his half-brother Antiochus VIII Gryphos contested the rule over the Seleucid Empire.

Accession to the Throne

In 114 BC, after the death of his brother-in-law and cousin Antiochus VIII, Kyzikenos demanded the crown from his remaining brother-in-law/cousin. He was successful in claiming the throne, which led to a division of Syria between him and his half-brother.

Conflict with Seleucus VI

After the death of Antiochus VIII (98/97 BC), his son Seleucus VI attacked Kyzikenos and defeated him in a battle.

Reign and Legacy

Kyzikenos was also known as Philopator, which means "father-loving". He had two sons from his mother Cleopatra Thea. His reign marked the beginning of a period of division within the Seleucid Empire, with Syria being shared between two cousin/brother kings: Kyzikenos in the southern part and Antiochus VIII Grypus in the northern part.

Death

Kyzikenos was defeated by his nephew Seleucus VI in 96 BC.