Alexander of Abonoteichus

Alexander of Abonoteichus, also known as Alexander the Paphlagonian, was a Greek mystic and oracle who lived approximately from one hundred five to one hundred seventy CE. He is best remembered as the founder of the Glycon cult, which gained a fleeting yet notable following in the Roman Empire. His life and practices are shrouded in controversy, particularly due to the scathing accounts provided by the contemporary writer Lucian.

Lucian's writings depict Alexander as a master of deception, claiming that the deity Glycon was nothing more than a live snake adorned with an artificial head. This portrayal raises questions about the authenticity of Alexander's practices and the legitimacy of his oracle. Despite Lucian's harsh criticism, some historical artifacts, including coins from emperors Lucius Verus and Marcus Aurelius, as well as a statue of Alexander mentioned by Athenagoras, lend a degree of credibility to his existence and influence.

In addition to his alleged fraudulent activities, Lucian accuses Alexander of swindling numerous individuals and engaging in various forms of thuggery through his followers. The animosity between Lucian and Alexander is thought to stem from Alexander's disdain for the Epicureans, a philosophical group that Lucian admired. This rivalry may have colored Lucian's depiction of Alexander, suggesting that while he may have been a figure of controversy, he was not entirely dissimilar from other oracles of his time, many of whom exploited the credulity of the public.