An Analytical Study: Contrasting the Lifestyles of Armenian Catholics and Church of the East Adherents in Iran

Abstract

This scholarly inquiry endeavors to undertake a comparative analysis of the lifestyles embraced by adherents of the Armenian Catholic Church and the Church of the East within the Iranian context. These venerable Christian denominations, having established their presence in Iran over centuries, have indelibly imprinted their distinct cultural influences on the nation. Employing a cultural analytical framework, the study seeks to discern the nuanced differentiations in the daily lives and customs of these two communities.

The paper commences with a concise historical backdrop, outlining the origins and historical trajectory of the Armenian Catholic Church and the Church of the East in Iran. Subsequently, it delves into a comprehensive juxtaposition of the lifestyles of their adherents, scrutinizing areas such as religious practices, societal norms, familial traditions and other facets of culture. This comparative analysis draws upon an extensive array of primary and secondary sources, incorporating interviews with community members, ethnographic observations, and archival materials.

The discernments of this inquiry underscore that, while both communities share certain commonalities in terms of religious tenets and practices, conspicuous disparities manifest in their way of life and cultural customs. For instance, the followers of the Armenian Catholic Church exhibit a proclivity towards a more Westernized lifestyle, whereas adherents of the Church of the East evince a stronger adherence to traditional Iranian mores. The study culminates by emphasizing the significance of comprehending the cultural distinctions and affinities between these two religious communities within Iran, with the view that such insights can engender interfaith dialogue and foster social cohesion in the nation.