12 Zodiac signs – the Armenian way - Tun Online Armenian School

Astrology, the study of the stars and their supposed influence on human affairs, has fascinated people for centuries. While the core concepts of the zodiac are shared across cultures, each culture often adds its own unique flavor and interpretations. Let’s delve into the world of star signs, or astghanishner (աստղանիշներ) as we call them in Armenian, with a touch of Armenian perspective, courtesy of Tun Online Armenian School.

The 12 Astghanishner (12 Star Signs):

Just like the widely recognized zodiac, the Armenian zodiac also comprises 12 signs, each associated with a specific period of the year. You’ll likely recognize the names, as they are often derived from Greek or Latin, but let’s explore some potential cultural nuances and perhaps some Armenian folklore connections (where available – information on uniquely Armenian interpretations of star signs is limited and often blends with general astrological understanding).

Aries (March 21 – April 19)	♈ Խոյ (Khos)	The Ram. Known for their fiery energy, initiative, and sometimes impulsive nature. Imagine the strength and determination of a ram climbing the mountains of Armenia!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)	♉ Ցուլ (Tzul/Dzul)	The Bull. Grounded, practical, and appreciative of beauty. Think of the fertile lands of the Ararat plain, representing abundance and stability.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)	♊ Երկվորյակներ (Yerkvoryakner/Yergvoryagner)	The Twins. Communicative, adaptable, and often juggling multiple interests. Perhaps symbolizing the dual nature of some historical Armenian figures or the interconnectedness of communities.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)	♋ Խեցգետին (Khetsgetin/Khetskedin)	The Crab. Nurturing, emotional, and protective of their loved ones. Like the ancient fortresses of Armenia, offering shelter and security.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)	♌ Առյուծ (Arryutz/Arryuudz)	The Lion. Confident, charismatic, and natural leaders. A symbol of strength and royalty, reminiscent of the Armenian coat of arms featuring a lion.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)	♍ Կույս (Kuys/Guys)	The Virgin. Analytical, detail-oriented, and striving for perfection. Perhaps representing the meticulous craftsmanship found in Armenian art and architecture.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)	♎ Կշեռք (Ksherk/Gsherk)	The Scales. Balanced, fair-minded, and seeking harmony. Reflecting the importance of justice and equilibrium in Armenian society.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)	♏ Կարիճ (Karich/Garij)	The Scorpion. Intense, passionate, and transformative. Symbolizing resilience and the ability to overcome challenges, a trait Armenians have historically needed.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)	♐ Աղեղնավոր (Agheghnavor)	The Archer. Optimistic, adventurous, and seeking knowledge. Representing the pursuit of wisdom and exploration, perhaps echoing the historical Silk Road trade that passed through Armenia.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)	♑ Այծեղջերու (Aytzeghjeru/Aydzeghcheru)	The Goat. Ambitious, disciplined, and responsible. Like the sure-footed goats navigating the Armenian highlands, representing perseverance and achievement.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)	♒ Ջրհոս (Jrhos/Chrhos)	The Water Bearer. Innovative, independent, and humanitarian. Perhaps symbolizing the creativity and ingenuity of the Armenian people.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)	♓ Ձկներ (Dzkner/Tzkner)	The Fish. Compassionate, intuitive, and artistic. Representing the fluidity and adaptability needed to thrive in diverse environments.

Test your knowledge with the Armenian Zodiac game!

Courtesy of Tun Online Armenian School.

While specific Armenian interpretations of star signs might be less documented, the core traits associated with each sign can be viewed through an Armenian lens. For example, the emphasis on family resonates strongly with Cancers’ nurturing natures, while the historical struggles of the Armenian people connects with Scorpios’ resilience.

What’s your astghanish? Follow us on Instagram to see yours translated in the coming days 🤩

Ready to start learning Armenian?(www.tunapp.com/get-started)

Tun Online Armenian School is available online to students in 30+ countries. Students can log in and learn Eastern or Western Armenian at a pace that suits them, and it features lessons, quizzes and interactive games to make learning fun.
<< Create your free account and start your first lesson now! >>

✅ Eastern and Western Armenian
✅ Available on mobile
✅ Available on desktop and laptop
✅ Ad-free learning experience
✅ Live practice with other Armenian speakers
✅ Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels
✅ Tutor help available
✅ Try before you buy with 4, 8 or 12 lessons free
✅ Cancel any time