Persian Sibyl

Michelangelo's rendering of the Persian Sibyl

The Persian Sibyl was the prophetic priestess presiding over the Apollonian Oracle. The Sibyl is sometimes referred to as the Babylonian Sibyl.

The word Sibyl comes (via Latin) from the ancient Greek word sibylla, meaning prophetess. There were many Sibyls in the ancient world, but the Persian Sibyl is said to have foretold the exploits of Alexander of Macedon. Nicanor, who wrote the life of Alexander mentions her.

The Persian Sibyl has had at least three names, Sambethe, Helrea and Sabbe. Sambethe, was said to be of the family of Noah. A painting of Sibilla Persica by Guercino hangs in the Capitoline Museum, Rome.