MESROP MASHTOTS

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• published: 04 Mar 2010
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Saint Mesrop Mashtots was an Armenian monk, theologian and linguist. He is best known for having invented the Armenian alphabet, which was a fundamental step in strengthening the Armenian Church, the government of the Armenian Kingdom, and ultimately the bond between the Armenian Kingdom and Armenians living in the Byzantine Empire and the Persian Empire. He was also the first Armenian translator. Mesrop Mashtots was born in Taron Region Hatsekats village. His date of birth is believed to be 362. He received his education in Taron and moved to capital Vagharshapat. On account of his piety and learning Mesrop was appointed secretary to King Chosroes III. His duty was to write in Greek and Persian characters the decrees and edicts of the sovereign. But Mesrop felt called to a more perfect life. Leaving the court for the service of God, he took holy orders, and withdrew to a monastery with a few chosen companions. This life he continued for a few years, preparing himself for the great work to which Providence was soon to call him. Indeed both Church and State needed his services. The principal events of this period, as he was much concerned of the fate and future of the Armenian people are the invention of the Armenian alphabet, the revision of the liturgy, the creation of an ecclesiastical and national literature, and the readjustment of hierarchical relations. Catholicos Sahak Partev supported his idea and King Vramshapouh joined them, showing his support in launching the beginning of researches and studies, the result of which became the invention of the alphabet. Mesrop Mashtots died on February 17, 440 and is buried in Oshakan.