Journal or Publication Title:

Բյուրականի աստղադիտարանի հաղորդումներ: Երևանի աստղադիտարանի բյուլետեն = Сообщения Бюраканской обсерватории. Бюллетень ереванской Астрономической обсерватории = Contributions from the Burakan observatory. Bulletin of the Erevan astronomical observatory

Date of publication:

2024

Volume:

71

Number:

2

ISSN:

2579-2276

Coverage:

322-329

Abstract:

This article examines an individual fragment of Armenian folklore about the Aratsani (Euphrates) River from an astronomical perspective, focusing on the central characters - the dragonfish and the bear. Through this analysis, a wealth of “astronomical knowledge” rooted in ancient mythological perceptions is revealed. Specifically, the mentioned figures in the sky correspond respectively to the modern constellations of the Southern Fish (Piscis Austrinus) and the Great Bear (Ursa Major).The described scenes are correlated with the heliacal rising and setting of the main star of Southern Fish constellations. Furthermore, all defining characteristics of the figures are given precise astronomical and mythological interpretations. The legend also highlights expressions related to the unfolding time, which are thoroughly explained based on celestial phenomena and ancient Armenian calendrical concepts. It is demonstrated that the described celestial events are associated with a 65–70-day period, referred to in the Protohaykian calendar structure as the “extra-annual period.” Additionally, the legend reveals close calendrical and ritualistic connections with the astronomical context of Fish-shaped Dragon Stones (Vishapakars). The comprehensive astronomical analysis enables the dating of the legend described to 18800 BC. This serves as a small but striking example of how folklore can act as a unique source of rich astronomical information.

Format:

pdf

Identifier:

click here to follow the link ; oai:arar.sci.am:380843

General note:

Communications of the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (ComBAO) is a peer-reviewed scientific journal, which publishes research in observational and theoretical astronomy/astrophysics and presents recent advances in these fields. It is being published by the NAS RA V. Ambartsumian Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (BAO) in English in electronic form. The journal publishes original papers, review papers, brief reports, book reviews, special communications, observational and theoretical results in various fields of astronomy and related sciences, and some editorial notes, including anniversaries and obituaries. Under the heading “Legacy”, the renewed magazine will republish some old articles of high value in English. The heading “Guest articles” will bring to the attention of readers the articles of researchers who are not employees of BAO. ComBAO was founded in 1946 and regularly published in 1946-1990. However, the publication was interrupted because of the economic situation after the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Location of original object:

ՀՀ ԳԱԱ Հիմնարար գիտական գրադարան