Philo (poet)

Philo was a Greek poet and writer of Hellenistic Jewish origin, notable for authoring an epic poem in Greek hexameters that chronicled the history of Jerusalem. As a literary figure, he preceded the philosopher Philo, distinguishing him as an earlier contributor to the literary landscape. His work, though not entirely preserved, has been referenced by subsequent writers, indicating its significance in the ancient literary canon.

The remnants of Philo's poem have been quoted by Alexander Polyhistor, who is credited as the source of the extracts later cited by Eusebius. This poet is likely the same individual mentioned by Clemens Alexandrinus and Josephus, with the latter referring to him as "the elder". These references underscore Philo's position as a respected writer of his time, whose work on the history of Jerusalem continues to be noted in historical and literary accounts.