Introduction
A native language is not merely a tool for communication; it is a fundamental element of national identity. For Armenians, who possess a rich cultural and historical heritage, the knowledge of their language holds particular significance. The Armenian language, which has existed in written form for over 1,700 years and even longer in oral form, is an inseparable part of self-awareness and a key to preserving the traditions, values, and spiritual foundations of the nation.
In the era of globalization, where assimilation and the loss of national characteristics have become commonplace, knowledge of the Armenian language becomes essential for maintaining one’s uniqueness. It is not only a bridge to the past but also the foundation for building a future in which Armenian culture continues to thrive and develop.
Why It Is Important for Armenians to Know Their Native Language
The Armenian language is the cornerstone of national identity. It embodies the history of the people, their culture, and worldview. Knowledge of the language provides access to literature, folklore, and historical texts, fostering a sense of belonging to one’s nation.
The native language helps us understand our roots, feel a connection with our ancestors, and grasp their values. This is especially crucial for the diaspora, where the language becomes a bridge between generations and a means of preserving identity amidst assimilation.
Without the language, the connection to national culture is lost, along with the uniqueness of the people—and even the people themselves. Every Armenian who speaks their native language contributes to the preservation of the nation and its future. Knowledge of the Armenian language is not only a tribute to the past but also a responsibility for the future.
Cultural and Historical Code
The Armenian language, like any other, carries a unique cultural and historical code that cannot be ignored. Learning any language requires delving into the culture and history of the people who speak it. This is not coincidental; understanding the language becomes significantly harder without this context, especially when it comes to idiomatic expressions and vocabulary with no equivalents in other languages.
Modern-Day Ara-ism and the Abundance of Sun Oaths
ARA
According to scholars, “Ar” was a shortened form of “Ara” or “Ararich,” the Creator. Worship of Ar was widespread among ancient Armenians, who referred to this deity simply as the Creator (Ara or Ararich).
In colloquial Armenian, the name “Ara” became a common synonym for “man” or “person.” To this day, Armenian men often address each other informally as “Ara,” referencing the Creator God. In ancient times, this form of address carried a highly respectful connotation, symbolizing one "son of God" speaking to another.
This etymology also extends to words like “Ar + Arat” (ար առատ), meaning a place abundant with God, life, and creation; “Arax,” “Artashat,” “Armenia,” and others.
Oaths
In ancient times, Armenians deeply revered nature, particularly the sun. The sun was equated with divine power and considered one of the strongest manifestations of God—something without which life would be impossible. Hence, in Armenian culture, the word “sun” often symbolized life itself. This led to the tradition of swearing “by the sun of my father, my mother, or my own sun.” Հորս/մորս/իմ արև։
These remarkable preserved expressions are a linguistic marvel and an example of true cultural and historical continuity across generations of the Armenian nation.
Conclusion
The Armenian language is not just a means of communication but a living heritage embodying the history, culture, and spiritual values of the people. Each word carries traces of ancient beliefs, traditions, and a unique worldview shaped over millennia.
Knowledge of one’s native language allows Armenians to maintain a connection with their ancestors and strengthen national identity in the modern world. It also enables a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical codes embedded in the language and ensures their transmission to future generations.
To preserve the Armenian language is to preserve our uniqueness, our culture, and ourselves as a nation. Without a language, a nation’s survival is nearly impossible. We must learn, teach, and respect our language, for together, we strive to preserve and develop our community as a distinct, self-sufficient, and independent nation. This is not just respect for the past but the foundation upon which our future is built.
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