Mesropian Bible

work by Mesrop Mashtots

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June 30, 2026

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The "Mesropian Bible" refers to the Armenian Bible, a significant work translated into Armenian using the script invented by St. Mesrop Mashtots around 405 CE. Mashtots, a monk, theologian, and linguist, is credited with creating the Armenian alphabet, which was crucial for developing a national Christian literature.12

Tradition holds that Mashtots first translated the book of Proverbs from Syriac. However, existing manuscripts of the official Armenian Bible are based on the Hexaplaric Septuagint, with some influence from the Syriac Peshitta version. The Armenian Bible is recognized for its beauty and accuracy. Mashtots himself translated the New Testament and the book of Proverbs, later revising the entire text. He also sent scholars to various centers of learning to find biblical manuscripts.21

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St. Mesrop Mashtots
…popular Armenian Bible, the “Mesropian” Bible (c. 410). Mesrop Mashtots himself was responsible for translating the New Testament and the Old Testament book of Proverbs. He subsequently revised the entire text.
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…popular Armenian Bible, the “Mesropian” Bible (c. 410). Mesrop Mashtots himself was responsible for translating the New Testament and the Old Testament book of Proverbs. He subsequently revised the entire text.
Read More