Theodotus (in Greek Θεoδoτoς) was an Aetolian, who at the accession of Antiochus III the Great (223–187 BC) held the command of the important province of Coele-Syria for Ptolemy Philopator (221–204 BC), king of Egypt. He was an able general, and repulsed with ease the first attack made by the king of Syria upon his government, but instead of being rewarded by Ptolemy for his services, he was recalled to Alexandria, where he nearly fell a victim to the intrigues of some of the courtiers and favourites of the king. Disgusted with this treatment, and despising the vices and luxury of Ptolemy, when he was again suffered to resume the command in Coele-Syria (219 BC) he conceived the design of betraying that province into the hands of Antiochus. His overtures were readily welcomed, and he surren