The culture of Armenia is truly something original. Purely oriental customs and religious traditions are intricately intertwined here. Armenians are a very religious people who know how to honor their roots. There is no place for permissiveness, rudeness, or arrogance. We can say that these people were able to combine culture and religiosity. For them, these are essentially inseparable from each other. It is impossible to speak briefly about the traditions of Armenia, since there are an incredible number of them.
Culture and traditions of Armenia
Armenians sacredly honor their elders, and wives always obey their husbands in everything. No one even tries to organize a riot or revolution: in this country they don’t know how to live differently. If they marry, it is only for love and for life. If a guest comes, he is greeted with all his heart and openness, offered the best dishes, left for the night, and pampered in every possible way.
The head of the family is only a man
Only he can decide all important family issues, and they must obey him unquestioningly. He is responsible for his family, and therefore, without him, no one can independently make any decision, even if at first glance it seems insignificant.
Raising children is based on religion
Armenians are Christians, but not traditional ones. They have an Armenian Gregorian Church. Although there are also Orthodox Christians, so a lot depends on the specific family. In any case, the child is raised to be a believer, God-fearing, and devout.
Hospitality is in the blood
Speaking about what traditions there are in Armenia, it is definitely worth mentioning hospitality. Armenians believe that if you receive every guest who comes with love and care, then happiness will settle in the house, and the financial flow will never become scarce. Therefore, when coming to Armenia, you don’t have to be afraid: no one is left there without an overnight stay and a full, satisfying dinner. The locals are ready to meet and accept strangers; they are indeed very generous and sociable.
Disrespecting your husband is unacceptable
A woman in an Armenian family is the keeper of the hearth. She is obliged to respect her husband, who fully supports the entire family.
Showing disrespect to her husband is unacceptable for any Armenian woman. Otherwise, it’s a shame for both her and her family. But what can be considered disrespect? This word can be used to describe any raising of tone towards your man, refusal to listen to his opinion.
Armenian women are brought up so that in family life they can easily “bend in” and make a unilateral concession - this is all their wisdom. From an early age, they are raised in such a way that men are not asked unnecessary questions.
Complete patriarchy reigns in Armenian families. Although the Armenian women themselves admit that in their families it is the women who are in charge: they will keep quiet, keep quiet, and make sure that everything happens as they see fit. So to speak, a woman is the neck of the head: an intelligent and cunning “support”.
Wedding traditions of Armenia and the custom of “nshandrek”
If translated into Russian, then this is an Armenian engagement. It is believed that this is a kind of wedding rehearsal, a blessing of the wedding rings. After this, no one has the right to prevent the newlyweds from getting married. And if he tries, he will be condemned by society. In essence, this is a kind of consolidation of the consent of both parties. Therefore, even the future husband and wife themselves will not be able to refuse the wedding.
But if compared with the ancient wedding traditions of Armenia, then in the modern interpretation this custom is quite simplified: festive tables are simply laid in the bride’s house or all guests are invited to a restaurant. The groom presents the bride with a wedding ring, which in ancient times was blessed by the priest present. Nowadays this is no longer absolutely necessary, but in some conservative families it still occurs. In fact, the tradition of “nshandrek” in Armenia is emotional family gatherings, planning a celebration and discussing technical issues.
Of course, the modern custom of “nshandrek” differs from the ancient one, but this does not make it any less interesting, unusual and truly solemn.
In addition, there are a lot of interesting wedding traditions:
- According to custom, consent is given only for the third time and in a half-joking form. This is a local ritual that must be observed. You cannot agree right away, as this is considered indecent. This is how parents show that they highly respect the honor of their daughter and will not give it up for the first person they meet. You will need to be patient and fight. Of course, this is all a joke, because in modern Armenia they have moved away a little from strict rules, and young people get to know each other on their own.
- Traditionally, a wedding in Armenia takes place in two stages: a civil ceremony and a wedding in a church. All this is certainly accompanied by folk festivals, national songs and dances, competitions from the toastmaster, and ransoms.
- The young woman dances twice: the first time when she meets her groom (this is a kind of symbol of farewell to home and parents), the second time - directly in the banquet hall. In general, the topic of farewell communication with father and mother is very sad. After all, the girl will have to see them again in at least a month, not earlier.
- There is another custom associated with tarosiki. Tarosiki are a kind of analogue of pieces from a wedding cake, only in the form of dolls. They are presented along with candies and other sweets. This is how the newlyweds share their happiness with others, wishing their lonely guests to quickly find their love and become truly happy. This is a very sweet and touching ritual to which no one remains indifferent.
- According to Armenian traditions and customs, a rich table with an abundance of a wide variety of dishes is set at a wedding. Among them are necessarily meat dishes, salads, and desserts. Can't do without alcohol. At the same time, at a wedding no one shouts the usual “Gorko!” for Russian people. This is due to the fact that it is unacceptable to show feelings in public. The groom can only modestly kiss the bride on the cheek. And so does she. No French kissing - it is indecent and unacceptable for Armenians.
Contrary to popular belief, it cannot be said that an Armenian girl is some kind of thing that can be easily sold. Armenian women are quite proud, they have a sense of honor and dignity, they are well-mannered and devoted. The main thing in a bride is good health, hard work and purity (virginity).
How to interest an Armenian
First of all, it is worth saying that there is no evidence that men of this nationality prefer a certain type of woman. So dyeing your hair from white to black, or gaining a few kilograms of excess weight is absolutely pointless.
An Armenian may be interested in the mystery of the lady, the presence of the so-called zest, which is visible but remains unsolved. This is the only way to attract him, arouse his interest and truly intrigue him. If you meet him by chance, don't try to impose yourself, try to act casually. And it is best to show inaccessibility - this way you can really push the Armenian to action and deeds. After all, at their core, such men are conquerors.
Inaccessibility, mystery and well-groomed appearance should be your main trump cards in attracting an Armenian.
Family traditions of Armenia and the custom of “atamhatik”
This interesting custom is also called the “festival of the first tooth.” The child is sprinkled with rice or wheat, mixed with sweets or raisins. It is believed that this ritual will help in the future: the baby will grow up strong and healthy.
In addition to the “atamhatik” tradition, in Armenia there are still many customs related to family values:
- It is strictly forbidden to argue with elders; this applies to all family members. And children in the presence of the older generation should not make noise, run, or scream loudly. Children are brought up in strictness and obedience; from birth they understand the importance of respectful attitude towards adults.
- When an elderly person enters a room, it is customary to stand up and give way. This applies to everyone, not just minors. The son will never allow himself to sit if his father is standing.
- For forty days after birth, the baby is carefully hidden from prying eyes. They don’t show it to anyone so as not to jinx it. Although in modern times this rule is quite difficult to observe, because, for example, a child must be shown to a doctor.
- A pregnant girl has no right to communicate with childless people, as well as with her own parents. It is believed that having no children can curse her. As for the custom of alienation from parents, unfortunately, there is no explanation for it. Armenian women accept this as a fact and do not argue.
According to one of the family traditions in Armenia, a newborn is baptized on the eighth day. However, the mother is not allowed into the church. The godfather brings her the baby.
You can't look bad in front of your husband
Any Armenian woman should be not only a good housewife, an exemplary mother, but also a great wife. Her appearance in front of her husband in an unsightly form is unacceptable.
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Even the most charming and beautiful woman blossoms even more so that a man can admire and admire her.
It is worth noting that the cult of beauty among Armenian women is very developed. They try to carefully follow fashion and not go out without good makeup.
Knunk Religion and Customs
This is something like twinning, when men belonging to different families not related by blood become sworn brothers and, if necessary, help each other. This occurs along with the pronouncement of vows and a shared meal. According to custom, the two named brothers need milk or wine together.
The “knunk” tradition in Armenia is inherited, therefore, the children of two kunaks are obliged to be friends and help, imitating their fathers. To refuse this is out of the question, since the custom has been strictly observed since ancient times.
Most Armenians are Monophysite Christians, that is, they recognize two principles in Christ: Divine and human. Moreover, Armenians are a pious people. They strictly attend church, always pray at home, observe fasts, and celebrate major church holidays according to all the rules. Interestingly, religion does not prohibit engaging in various kinds of fortune-telling practices. It was in Armenia that the most common fortune telling on coffee grounds originated, which is known and used in many countries around the world.
The best coffee fortune tellers are women, and of the older generation. This was done by grandmothers, mothers, and mothers-in-law. They first invited people to visit them, treated them to delicious aromatic ground coffee, and then performed fortune telling, thus revealing the secrets of the future.
What you need for a successful marriage
If you can accept all the customs, traditions and laws of the Armenian people, then your acquaintance with a representative of this nationality may well develop into something more. Even if you don’t manage to marry an Armenian and build a love relationship with him, you will still be guaranteed a strong friendship. But how can we understand their holy customs?
First of all, you should learn more about the history of Armenia. You will need to try to feel all the pain of this unfortunate people for yourself. Do not forget that in their temperament and disposition, Armenians differ significantly from other Caucasian peoples. They are more reasonable, filled with dignity and confidence. Another important quality characteristic of Armenian men is unshakable calm.
The wars that took place on the territory of their country for a very long time taught these people to value peace, kindness and harmony above all else, as well as to enjoy life.
Traditions of hospitality in Armenia
Foreign tourists often feel awkward in Armenia, but they themselves do not notice how they find themselves in the role of invited guests. The owners ask the person with interest where he came from and ask many questions. Since this comes from the soul, the guest does not even get angry, relaxes and switches to free and relaxed communication.
After meeting, there is an indispensable invitation home
Home is sacred for any Armenian. There is also a concept in Armenia: “open doors”. It sounds like “my doors are always open to guests.” Those who came are a gift from God, therefore, they must be sheltered, fed, surrounded with attention and care. Armenians quite calmly leave a guest overnight, accommodate him with all amenities, help him get comfortable and overcome embarrassment.
There is also such a thing as “General Guest”
Since in this country everyone is friends and brothers to each other, if one family invites guests, then they automatically become guests for their neighbors and relatives. Do not be surprised if a whole crowd gathers for dinner, and everyone will be cordial and hospitable, each with their own treat.
Further relationship with the guest is also a prerequisite
If a foreigner has visited this country at least once, he will not fly home alone. He understands that if he returns again, it will not be as a simple tourist. They will be waiting for him here, and not just at home. Therefore, Armenians are considered to be the most sociable and friendly people: they have friends, acquaintances, and acquaintances everywhere. This is achieved through frank conversations at the table: the owner talks about his ancestors, in fact describing the entire family tree. This is considered a broad gesture expressing complete trust.
You can't refuse an inviter
Armenians are not only friendly, but also touchy. If they call you into the house, then you need to respect them. They perceive refusal extremely sharply and negatively: according to tradition, the one who refuses does not wish happiness to the one who invited him.
Armenians love holidays very much
You could even say that Armenia is a real country of holidays. People like to gather here even for the most insignificant occasion. For most foreigners visiting the country, this is incomprehensible and even wild, but Armenians spend about 80% of their time in noisy feasts. The most favorite occasions were family events: a baby walked or spoke, a schoolboy graduated with honors, the father of the family received a new assignment.
In Armenia there is a strict separation of bread and salt
This is the custom of twinning: if an Armenian did this to his guest, then they are no longer strangers, but almost friends. Therefore, if necessary, they can count on each other. Armenians consider bread a holy product sent by God. And if you share it, then only with a person who deserves it.
In the bride's house: wedding dress ceremony
The basket contains gifts for the bride (sometimes a dress) and a couple of attributes: shoes (required), veil, perfume, cosmetics, handbag, bouquet, etc. According to ancient traditions, after the matchmakers arrived, all the women went to the girl’s room and dressed up the bride, singing ritual songs. The bride had to wear everything new purchased by the groom. In the process, one of her shoes disappeared somewhere, and it was supposed to be “stolen” by one of the bride’s relatives. Kavorkin is obliged to pay a ransom for the return of the shoe. The veil is put on by twisting it three times around the bride’s head. Then the groom is invited into the room, and he, lifting the veil from the bride’s face, kisses her and takes her to the guests. But here another obstacle awaits them. The bride's brother with a sword in his hands blocks their way and also asks for a ransom. This time the groom needs to fork out the cash.
Traditional culinary dishes of Armenia
Speaking about the traditions of hospitality in Armenia, one cannot ignore traditional culinary dishes and drinks. Traditional Armenian dishes:
- Breakfast: harisa (porridge with chicken), scrambled eggs.
- Akhtsan - vegetable salad. It is prepared daily, both on weekdays and on holidays (tomatoes, cucumbers, greens).
- Snacks: imam bayaldi (eggplant dish), kyufta (dietary beef dish).
- First: khashlama (veal soup), khash (rich broth), aveluk, bozbash (lamb soup).
- Second: dolma (pork with rice like cabbage rolls), kutaby, vegetable stew of baked vegetables, khapama (stuffed pumpkin), amich (chicken with dates), mshosh (porridge with dried fruits and nuts).
- Baked goods and desserts: gata (cookies), lamadzho (meat flatbreads), Mikado cake, churchkhela, barurik, alani, matnakash (Armenian bread).
- Kebabs.
Traditional drinks
First of all, this is, of course, tan . This is the name for a mixture of water, salt and yogurt, which turns out very tasty. Armenians also love the drink matsun, which is a fermented milk product and in Armenia is made mainly from sheep’s milk.
Not to mention Armenian cognacs, which are distinguished by their richness of taste and exquisite aroma. But these people also don’t mind seeing vodka on holiday tables. First of all, this is a very strong mulberry vodka “ Artsakh ”, which is infused with mulberries and distilled in special copper stills. One of the strongest alcoholic drinks in the world.
Well, and of course, where would we be without pomegranate wine, which has a rich tart taste and a stunning aroma of ripe pomegranate. Jermuk mineral water , and they will not refuse a cup of strong coffee or tea.
Engagement
Armenian wedding traditions and customs are very interesting. After matchmaking, the betrothal ceremony takes place. The main organizer of this event is the bride's side. The girl’s family sets the tables (today this is done in a restaurant), and relatives call. The groom's side prepares baskets with gifts. Each of the invited women comes with her own gift, placed in a basket with fruits, sweets and drinks. Of course, bouquets, a cake, and, of course, a wedding ring are prepared for the bride.
This time, the cortege is greeted with open arms, as well as smiles, because the groom’s relatives are welcome guests, future relatives. Then comes the actual betrothal ceremony. Ideally, everything should be in the church, but today rarely anyone adheres to this. The newlyweds just put rings on each other, and the parents open cognacs. Then there is a real feast and dancing, dancing, dancing...
Interesting traditions of Armenia
Great love for children
Children are considered a blessing from heaven, so even the thought of abortion is unacceptable. What can we say about childfree and childhate? There are simply no adherents of this ideology in this country. Female infertility is considered to be a huge grief, but the husband does not divorce such a woman, but loves and supports her. But this is a tribute to modernity.
In the old days, a barren wife was considered cursed, called a “barren flower,” so they survived from home in every possible way. In villages and villages it was generally strict: marriage was officially confirmed only after the birth of a child. Without children, a family was not such.
Everyone lives in entire clans and generations
This is a purely national feature: young families do not move out, but stay with their parents and grandparents. Although there is such an opportunity: there is inexpensive real estate in Armenia. It’s just not customary here to separate.
The year begins not with the New Year, but with Christmas
Another interesting tradition in Armenia: it is on Christmas that the tree is decorated, gifts are bought, and the whole family gathers at the table. A traditional Christmas dish is fish, which is very loved and respected by Armenians. The celebrations last about two to three days so that everyone can come and visit, congratulate, and relax.
Trndez - Armenian holiday of the beginning of spring
It has pagan roots and is celebrated accordingly: bonfires are lit and couples jump over them to cleanse themselves and leave all bad things in the past. Somewhat reminiscent of Russian Maslenitsa and Forgiveness Sunday.
Vardavar is a summer holiday on which it is customary to run and throw water on each other. This is a kind of saving the earth from drought, as well as a favorite pastime for children and youth. Celebrated in mid-summer, around the beginning of July. Some see a parallel with the famous Ivan Kupala Day.
Funeral ceremony
On the day of the funeral, a priest is invited, who again performs the funeral service for the deceased and, together with the funeral procession, goes to the cemetery. There are areas in Armenia where women are not allowed to go to the graveyard on the day of the funeral. Upon returning home, the funeral participants will find a rich meal. People eat and, without clinking glasses, drink for the repose of the soul of the deceased. The next day, a group of close people gathers in the house and again goes to the cemetery, and then gathers at a set table, again remembering the deceased. Funeral ceremonies are also held on the 7th and 40th days and on the anniversary of the sad event, as well as on church holidays: Christmas, Easter, the Feast of the Holy Cross, etc. For forty days, men (closest relatives of the deceased) do not shave their beards; and women wear mourning.
Unusual traditions of Armenia
Saint Sarkis Day (analogy with Saint Valentine)
Unmarried girls bake specially salted cookies in the evening, which they eat at night. Whoever comes and brings water in a dream is the betrothed.
If someone died at home, then the mirrors are covered with dark, impenetrable fabric.
By the way, this custom came to Russia from there. Armenians believe that the mirror world is something special. Only the soul of the deceased will not get lost there, but the mirror itself will absorb necrotic energy. And this will be the beginning of misfortunes in the house: in fact, the damaged dressing table will begin to drive the residents out of the apartment.
A dead person is never left alone in the house
There are always people near the coffin (usually men, reading funeral prayers). According to legend, this will make the deceased feel calmer. And so that he does not take anyone alive with him, you need to knock three times on the closed door. This is done both at home and in church.
Armenian children mature early and become independent
They are often left to their own devices, they do not play with them on purpose, but they are regularly assigned some responsibilities around the house. From the age of 6, the girl remained with her mother, and the son was completely transferred into the hands of his father. The girl helps her mother with housework, sits with the younger ones, and works with them. She is also gradually learning to sew, cook, and clean. And the boy learns his father's trade under the guidance of his father and other men.
Only the mother has the right to punish a child
This is another unusual tradition in Armenia. The father does not interfere in this process; he cannot even shout at the children. And punishment in the presence of a grandfather or grandmother is completely unacceptable. This is real humiliation, not for the baby, but for the older generation. In general, a child who is guilty is the direct fault of the mother. She overlooked, missed, explained incorrectly. Therefore, she must correct her mistakes.
Mother is scolded for children's misdeeds
This is a very important point: the child begins to understand that if he does something, the father will yell at the mother, and not at him. What could be worse? Although, unfortunately, in modern conditions children are even beginning to seek benefits for themselves in this custom. In any case, they will not be punished, and this is the main thing. And maternal authority is no longer the same: if a daughter-in-law is disliked in her husband’s house, then a similar attitude is absorbed into the child. He sees that all the cones from dad, grandmother, and grandfather are flying at the parent, and draws conclusions.
Matchmaking
Surely many are interested in how an Armenian wedding is going. Traditions and customs in modern society have largely lost their relevance, although there are families who advocate for the revival of the national and in every possible way strive to adhere to the rules and canons that were created thousands of years ago. So, the first stage in this process is matchmaking. In the old days, when people lived in small towns and villages, and everyone knew each other, this process was entrusted to an intermediary - a mutual friend of two families. But today this stage has completely dropped out of the series of pre-wedding events. You don’t have to go to matchmaking in a huge group. The matchmaker group includes the groom's mother, father, grandparents, and older brother or sister. They take with them sweets, Armenian cognac, a bouquet of flowers, as well as a gold ring for the bride (but not a wedding ring). The bride's parents greet them with reserve. There should not be any treats on the table. Negotiations take place for some time, the parties get to know each other. The outcome of this conversation may be the most unexpected: either the father of the bride will agree to give his daughter to this guy, or not. In the first case, a girl is invited to the “negotiation” room, and dad asks her if she agrees to marry this young man. The girl, as a rule, speaks with a slight nod - either in denial or in agreement. In the first case, the groom goes to her and puts a ring on the ring finger of her left hand, then glasses are brought to the table and two bottles of cognac are uncorked. Each glass is filled with a little from each bottle. First the fathers clink glasses, and then everyone else. Then comes the treat. In case of refusal, the matchmakers go without even looking at the girl or asking her consent.
