Theopator (Ancient Greek:Θεοπάτωρ), meaning "one who has a father who is a god", is a title used by Hellenistic, Roman, and Parthian rulers.^[1]The term was also used in Christian literature, but not with the same meaning, it meant "father of God" and was used to describe the relationship of blood between David (David Theopator) and Jesus. (seeDavidic line).^[1]

It has been found on Seleucid coins.^[2][1]

Hellenistic rulers who used the epithet:

• Alexander Balas

The term was found in an epigram atHeraion of Samos and was used to describe emperorTitus.^[1]

Parthian rulers adopted the Greek iconography and titles and some kings used on their coins the epithet, with Greek letters on the obverse under the royal portrait.^[2][3] (seeList of monarchs of Persia#Parthian Empire (247 BC – AD 228))

The term was also used by Hesychius, who was aPresbyter of Jerusalem, with a different meaning though. He used it as "father of God", in order to describeDavid as the ancestor ofJesus.^[4]

• Ancient Greek titles
• Greek epithets

• Articles containing Ancient Greek (to 1453)-language text