Mkhitar

Mkhitar is a given name of Armenian origin. It is derived from the Armenian verb "mkhitel," meaning "to be refreshed" or "to revive." The name is historically significant within Armenian culture and is associated with Saint Mkhitar of Sebastia, a prominent medieval Armenian monk and theologian.

Saint Mkhitar (1676-1749) founded the Mekhitarist Order, a monastic congregation of the Armenian Catholic Church. This order played a crucial role in preserving and disseminating Armenian literature and culture during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Mekhitarists established important centers of learning and publishing in Venice and Vienna, contributing significantly to Armenian scholarship and the revival of classical Armenian texts.

The name Mkhitar has continued to be popular in Armenia and among the Armenian diaspora. It is often given to males and carries connotations of resilience, wisdom, and intellectual pursuit, largely due to the legacy of Saint Mkhitar. Notable individuals bearing the name include Mkhitar Gosh, another influential medieval Armenian scholar and fabulist, and contemporary figures in various fields. The name's enduring presence reflects its deep roots in Armenian history and its positive associations.