The Paganism of Pre-Christian Armenia: An Overview

Before the adoption of Christianity, the Armenian people followed a diverse range of religious beliefs. Central to this was the pagan religion, a polytheistic system that blended indigenous traditions with external influences.

Religious Background of Pre-Christian Armenia

Armenia had complex religious practices that have their roots in various forms of worship, from nature and sun deities to concepts of good and evil. The main religion of pre-Christian Armenia was Armenian Paganism, a polytheistic religion that evolved over time.

The Formation of Armenian Paganism

The roots of Armenian Paganism can be traced back to the Urartu state, which had its own array of deities. After the decline of Urartu, foreign religions such as Greek and Mesopotamian beliefs began to influence the worship practices in the Armenian Highlands.

Key Elements of Armenian Paganism

Key elements of Armenian Paganism include indigenous myths and beliefs, as well as deities borrowed from Iran, Mesopotamia, and Hellenic traditions. By the time of Christianity's spread, many of the Armenian deities had Persian-derived names, such as Aramazd (from Ahura Mazda) and Anahit (from Anahita).

Syncretism and Cultural Influences

The Armenian religion was not a rigid system, but rather a highly syncretic one. Influences from Zoroastrianism, Greek Gnosticism, and other Eastern and Western religious practices coexisted. This blending of cultures and beliefs is evident in the architecture and worship practices of the time.

Examples of Syncretism

A prime example of this syncretism is seen in the Temple of Mihr in Garni. This structure, dating back to the 1st century AD, is a Hellenistic peripteros dedicated to the deity Mithra, who has Persian roots and Urartian influence. The use of local materials and techniques indicates the fusion of Greek architectural styles with Armenian craftsmanship.

Key Deities of Armenian Paganism

The Armenian pagan religion worshipped a divine triad, similar to the Urartian deities Haldis, Theispas, and Artinis. These names were later transformed into Persian-originated deities such as Aramazd, Anahita, and Mihr, but the core beliefs remained rooted in the Urartian triad pattern.

Coexistence of Other Religions

Armenia's strategic location between the Persian and Roman empires meant that the country was exposed to a wide range of religious influences. This included Persian Mazdaism, Manichaeism, and even Jewish worship. This coexistence of diverse religious practices further enriched the religious landscape of pre-Christian Armenia.

Conclusion

The pagan religion of pre-Christian Armenia was a unique blend of indigenous beliefs and external influences, reflecting the rich cultural history of the region. The syncretic nature of Armenian Paganism and its coexistence with other religions demonstrate the complex religious tapestry that shaped the spiritual life of the Armenian people.