HISTORY OF ARMENIA. Page 44
tianity in that country. Vahagn died after a brilliant reign of 27 years. A statue of this monarch was erected in Georgia by the inhabitants of that country, in commemoration of his many great qualities, and according to the pagan custom in those days, divine honours were paid him; sacrifices being offered to the statue. From this prince the tribe of Vahunians are descended, many of whom afterwards officiated as priests in temples which they had erected to their ancestor, who, as we before stated, had been deified.
Aravan the youngest son of Vahagn succeeded his father on the throne of Armenia, and held it 18 years. He is the ancestor of the tribe of the Aravenians.
Nerseh, the son of Aravan, was the next king, and reigned 35 years. He was succeeded by his son Zareh, who swayed the sceptre 46 years. From him are descended the Zarehavenians. Armog, the son of Zareh, wore the crown of Armenia nine years. He was succeeded by his son Baygam, who died after a reign of 14 years. Van, the son of Baygam, became king on the decease of his father, and held that dignity 20 years. This monarch repaired the large city which had been built in Armenia by the Assyrian queen Semiramis, and changed its name to Van. Vahey, the son of Van, was the last
