IDMON (thracian seer)
Figure of myth · son of Abas in Greek mythology
Idmon, son of Abas, was counted among the illustrious Aeolids and served as an expert in interpreting omens.1,2 Other accounts name Leto’s son as his true father, a god who taught him to read birds and burning sacrifices.2 He was described as a god-fearing man, possessing the ability to know the fates of others.3,4
Idmon resided in the city of Argos before joining the expedition, arriving last of all those dwelling there.2 He joined the group to ensure the people would not deny him honor.2 Before departing, he used augury to learn his own fate.2 Idmon observed the sacrificial flames and smoke rising as a favorable sign, and rejoiced when he beheld them.5 He verbally declared the will of Apollo regarding the omen.5 While the other heroes clamoured together, Idmon spoke out openly.6
In another account, Idmon cleansed the wounds of the battleweary Tydeus.7 He alternated between using a knife and administering herbal remedies.8 He recounted the origins of the conflict and the words exchanged by the parties.8 He described the location of the ambush and the timing of the secret battle.8 He explained how Maeon was saved to deliver the sad news.8 His speech caused the princes and his wife's father to become spellbound.8 His words inflamed the wrath of the Tyrian exile.8 Turnus ordered Idmon to deliver a message to the Phrygian King.9
Idmon died after a white-tusked boar gashed his thigh, severing his sinews and bone, while he was walking along a riverbank among the Mariandynians.10,1 His prophetic skills failed to prevent his death by the boar.1 He was carried to the ship and died in the arms of his companions.1 Other accounts state that a serpent killed him on the sands of Africa.4
The people and King Lycus buried Idmon with full honors.3 A barrow was raised for Idmon in the land where he died.3 Countless sheep were slaughtered at Idmon's tomb as a funeral offering.3 A wild olive tree trunk stands near the Acherusian headland as a token of Idmon.3 Phoebus commanded the Boeotians and Nisaeans to worship Idmon as their city's guardian.3 They were ordered to build their city around the olive trunk.3 The people currently honor Agamestor instead of the god-fearing Idmon.3
The codex facts behind this entry
In the myths
Idmon died after a white-tusked boar gashed his thigh, severing his sinews and bone, while he was walking along a riverbank among the Mariandynians. Apollodorus 1.9.23 +1
