Uncovering Theological Inconsistencies in the History of Agathangelos

Abstract

This paper analyses the theological inconsistencies in two prayer-texts from the 5^th-century History [of Armenia] by Agathangelos (Agat‘angeghay Patmut‘iwn [Hayotsʻ]). Were these inconsistencies manifest in the original composition or arose during later editing and transcription? Through an examination of all the editions of the work, the author argues that the controversial passages in the two prayer-texts may not be original, despite their longstanding presence. They create tension and challenge the coherence between theological tenets within the prayers and throughout the History.

To restore coherence in Agathangelos’ History and gain a better understanding of the theological context in which it was produced, this paper proposes a new, more accurate critical edition with a particular focus on doctrinal issues.

Similar inconsistencies, though with varying impact, identified in another significant Armenian literary source of the 5^th century, The Epic Histories by P‘awstos Buzand (Buzandaran Patmut‘iwk‘), are also discussed in this study.