a Pythagorean philosopher, celebrated for his disinterested affection for Pythias, a member of the same philosophic fraternity. Having been condemned to death by Dionysius I. of Syracuse, Pythias requested permission to depart for the purpose of arranging his domestic affairs, and Damon pledged his life for the return of his friend. The punctual arrival of Pythias before the appointed day of execution so astonished the tyrant that he released both, and begged to be admitted into their friendship.