THE ARMENIAN BIBLE: IDENTITY, RELIGION & CHALLENGES IN A POST MODERN SOCIETY
Gibrahayer
Oct 2009
Nicosia, October 2009 – The Christianisation of Armenia in 301AD
has been a turning point in its national history. A new culture was
started which was further rooted and implemented with the invention of
the Armenian alphabet and the translation of the Bible into Armenian.
Since then, the Bible has been the essence of the Christian faith
for the Armenian nation and the preservation of its national identity
and culture.
Dr. Ari Topouzkhanian’s visit to Cyprus from October 28 to November 2,
2009, was very significant in this respect. A prominent scientist and
Bible scholar-translator, Dr. Topouzkhanian stimulated the Armenian
audience with his two very inspiring lectures: "Hay Asdvadsashounchi
Shaheganoutioune: Badmagan Agnarg yev nergaorerou hramayagane". (The
essence of the Armenian Bible: Historical reflections and the present
day challenges); "Havadk yev kidoutioun: Hay Kristonia Yeridasartin
penderdouke" (Faith and Science: The Christian Armenian youths’
search for identity). Dr. Topouzkhanian was also the speaker at the
Armenian Evangelical Church’s service, celebrating Tarkmanchatz.
Dr. Ari Topouzkhanian’s visit and lectures in Cyprus were organised by
the Armenian Evangelical Church. Dr. Topouzkhanian had the opportunity
to meet with the leadership of the Armenian community in Cyprus and
visit its institutions. He visited the Armenian Prelacy of Cyprus, met
with the Armenian representative in the Cyprus Parliament, Mr. Vartkes
Mahdessian, and visited Kalaydjian Home. He had an audience with the
students of Nareg School in Nicosia, challenging them with issues
related to Christian faith and science. Dr.
Topouzkhanian gave an interview to the Armenian program of the Cyprus
Broadcasting Corporation.
The Armenian Bible is the fundamental source for the preservation
of the national identity and the Christian faith of the Armenian
nation, the two identities that the Armenian nation has maintained
throughout the ages. The challenge today is to pass them on to the
next generation.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
