[1] During the fifth century, A. D., the Persians, then dominating Armenia, were determined to crush out Christianity in the land, and to compel the people to become Zoroastrians or fire-worshipers, like themselves. But the Armenians withstood this, ready to die rather than deny their faith. Led by the valiant Prince Vartan, they fought and made a brave resistance against an enemy greatly superior in numbers. They were vanquished, and Vartan, their commander-in-chief, fell, with many of his followers, at the Battle of Avaraīr. [↑]
[2] Pilaaf, or pillau, a favorite dish of Oriental people, consists of rice boiled with mutton-fat; it is usually highly spiced, and often contains raisins or almonds. [↑]
[3] Boghos Effendi: Mr. Paul. Family names are seldom used by Armenians. [↑]
[4] Orientals always take off their shoes before entering a house. [↑]
[5] Badgi: Sister, the title commonly given to women. [↑]
[6] Bedros: Peter; Krikor: Gregory; Gulenia: Rose. [↑]
[7] In some parts of Armenia, the meal is served in the middle of the floor; the food is placed on a round tray of wood or copper, about three feet in diameter, and standing about six inches from the floor. All the food is in one dish, from which each person helps himself; the thin, soft bread can be twisted into a sort of spoon, and used to convey liquid food to the mouth, gradually disappearing with the food. There are thus no dishes to be washed. It is customary to wash the hands before and after a meal. [↑]
[8] The patron Saint of Armenia. He lived in the third century, and was the restorer of the Church in Armenia, suffering hardship and persecution for many years. The Armenian Church is very ancient, Christianity having been brought to the people in Apostolic times. [↑]