The Power of Poetic Prayer

Gregory of Narek

The Feast of the Holy Translators commemorates the work of Sts. Sahag and Mesrob, founders and propagators of the Armenian alphabet and the first Armenian translation of the Holy Bible itself.  Yet not only are these men and their colleagues honored on this feast, but the many who followed in subsequent centuries, men who translated great works of theology, philosophy and history into Armenian and also wrote original masterpieces.

Indeed, the "Holy Translators" are a diverse group of brilliant writers whose dates extend as late as the 12th century and include the brilliant clergymen, St. Gregory of Narek (951-1003) and Catholicos St. Nersess Shnorhali (1102-1173).

St. Gregory of Narek (in Armenian Kri-kor Na-re-gah-tzee), was one of the greatest mystic poets in the history of the Armenian Church.  Called "mystic" because his poems focused on the wonder and mystery of his relationship with God. 

He was born in the village of Narek on the southern shore of Lake Van.  He was educated and spent his entire life at the monastery of Narek -- taught and encouraged by his father, bishop Khosrov; and his uncle, the famous scholar Ananias. 

Among many other well-known works, his most famous is "The Book of Lamentations" which confessed his unworthiness before almighty God.  This collection of poems, eventually called simply the "Narek" were considered so full of strength and life that they were placed at the side or under the pillow of anyone ailing.