Gordian Knot

Gordian Knot. Gordius was a Phrygian peasant, who became king of the Phrygians in consequence of a response of the Delphic oracle, telling them to choose the first man whom they saw riding in a cart to the temple of Zeus. After his election Gordius consecrated his cart and yoke to Zeus, and placed them in the citadel of Gordium, a name given in honour of himself. The yoke was tied with a knot so intricate that an oracle announced that he who unloosed it would become ruler over Asia. The prophecy was fulfilled by Alexander the Great, who severed it with his sword.