Armenian folk wisdom shared with the world through Dora Sakayan’s trilingual collections of proverbs

These exceptional works feature 2,500 Armenian proverbs, grouped thematically in parallel with their Armenian equivalents in English, German, and French. This approach allows not only for the study of the linguistic and structural features of Armenian proverbs but also for the discovery of the mentality, life experience, mindset, behavior, and beliefs shaped by the Armenian people over the centuries. 

Dora Sakayan’s works are of great significance for readers interested in Armenian heritage and traditions. These books greatly contribute to Armenian studies and the dissemination of national culture on an international scale. 

Appreciation and Recognition

During the presentation, YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan emphasized the uniqueness of the eminent scholar's works and their role in preserving and spreading Armenian oral heritage.

Dora Sakayan, who currently lives and works abroad, had previously worked and made significant professional contributions at Yerevan State University during a specific phase of her career. Reflecting on this period, the rector underscored her contribution to the development of the university and highlighted her ongoing professional cooperation with YSU.  

The author also joined the event online, and the rector personally conveyed his gratitude and appreciation, noting, "Dora Sakayan’s trilingual works are not only a great scientific contribution but also an invaluable contribution to the preservation and dissemination of Armenian culture. I congratulate her on this wonderful initiative and express my gratitude for her dedication and immense professional work."

Karen Grigoryan, Director of YSU Publishing House, also congratulated the author on the publication and success of the initiative, highlighting the significance of these works as an achievement in the field of Armenian studies: "It was a great honor to receive Dora Sakayan’s trust and bring this publication to fruition. Her literary and scholarly contributions hold exceptional importance for Armenian studies. I congratulate her on this important achievement and wish her continued success." 

The Proverb Collection as the Best Source for Recognizing Armenian Language and Culture

During the presentation, members of YSU academic staff, who had worked with the author as students or colleagues, extended congratulatory remarks, emphasizing the significance of Dora Sakayan’s work for Armenian studies and the preservation of Armenian cultural heritage. They highlighted the role of these publications not only for linguists and cultural experts but also for anyone interested in Armenian folk wisdom and traditions. It was noted that these books are valuable resources for both scientific research and the study of the Armenian language and culture. 

Speakers expressed gratitude to Dora Sakayan for her unwavering dedication and wished her further success in her scientific and literary endeavors.

Narine Dilbaryan, Candidate of Philological Sciences, Associate Professor at the Chair of the Armenian Language History and General Linguistics, YSU Faculty of Armenian Studies, presented a comprehensive overview of the works, emphasizing their value from various perspectives, including linguistic, moral, and humanitarian. She presented her conclusions with specific examples from the book. 

"I believe it is worth highlighting a phrase from the book: 'First love, first goodness.' This saying seems to encapsulate the essence of Dora Sakayan’s entire work—rooted in Armenian identity. At the heart of her creations are love and goodness. Dora Sakayan’s proverb collections not only make a major contribution to Armenian studies but also represent a valuable contribution to the development of French studies, German studies, and English studies," said N. Dilbaryan, expressing her gratitude to the author.  

Ruzan Ghazaryan, Head of the Chair of Translation Theory and Practice at YSU, emphasized the importance of the books for students at the Faculty of European Languages and Communication, particularly in the context of their academic curriculum. 

"As a translator, I can say that Dora Sakayan has done an invaluable job, especially for our department. I thank her for her contribution, dedication, and this monumental work," said R. Ghazaryan.   

Dora Sakayan, who earlier in her academic journey studied at Yerevan State Theatre and Film Institute, was also congratulated by the rector of the institute, Sara Nalbandyan, who emphasized the author’s close connection to Armenian culture and the arts. She thanked Dora Sakayan for her significant contribution, underscoring the importance of this input in shaping the education and value systems of future generations.

"Dora Sakayan is a truly unique example for us. Her work is invaluable, and her books hold exceptional value for our academic community. This is an important event, a chance to hear from the author, explore her extensive work, and understand its importance in spreading Armenian culture," stated Professor Seda Gasparyan, Head of the Chair of English Philology at YSU.

The Author’s Gratitude for the Recognition 

Dora Sakayan shared her impressions of the presentation with the attendees, reflecting on her memories of living in Armenia, receiving an education, and her professional journey. She described this period as one filled with both pleasant events and challenges, which were formative in strengthening her character and willpower.

She emphasized the importance of the book and its role in preserving Armenian cultural heritage, particularly the sections related to Armenian beliefs, which were specifically highlighted by the Catholicos of All Armenians. The Catholicos, recognizing the book’s significance, remarked that it should be placed on every Armenian's table.

Dora Sakayan expressed her gratitude to the organizers and attendees of the presentation, noting how deeply moved she was by the full hall and the words of appreciation. She stressed that it was a great honor to dedicate her books to those present at the event, thereby spreading Armenian folk wisdom.

Attendees received copies of Dora Sakayan’s books and had the opportunity to interact with the author.