However this report is strongly contradicted by epigraphic and numismatic evidence. Sophene most likely emerged as a distinct kingdom in the 3rd-century BC, during the gradual decline of Seleucid influence in the Near East and the split of the Orontid dynasty into several branches. Three rulers belonging to a different Orontid branch, Sames I, Arsames I and Xerxes ruled the western part of Greater Armenia, perhaps from Commagene to Arzanene.
This report is contradicted by historical evidence found in inscriptions and coins. It suggests that Sophene emerged as a separate kingdom during the 3rd century BC, coinciding with the decline of Seleucid power in the Near East and the split of the Orontid dynasty into several branches. Three rulers from a different branch of the Orontids, Sames I, Arsames I, and Xerxes, likely ruled the western part of Greater Armenia, possibly encompassing Commagene to Arzanene.