Gordius
(
Γόρδιος). An ancient king of Phrygia, and father of
Midas, but originally a poor peasant. Internal disturbances having broken out in Phrygia, an
oracle informed the inhabitants that a wagon would bring them a king, who would put an end to
their troubles. Shortly afterwards Gordius suddenly appeared riding in his wagon in the
assembly of the people, who at once acknowledged him as king. Gordius, out of gratitude,
dedicated his chariot to Zeus, in the acropolis of Gordium. The pole was fastened to the yoke
by a knot of bark; and an oracle declared that whosoever should untie the knot should reign
over all Asia. Alexander, on his arrival at Gordium, cut the knot with his sword, and applied
the oracle to himself (
Plut. Alex. 18).