“They made a calf at Mount Horeb and worshiped a cast image. They exchanged their glory for the image of a grass-eating ox” (Psalm 106:19-20). The issue at hand is ancient and, so to speak, “universal.”
Whether at the foot of Horeb (Sinai) in Israel 30 centuries ago or elsewhere since then, the “object” of worship has been determined by kings, nobles, and various leaders. These figures become the role models by which citizens or subjects are guided.
In my lifetime, a secretary of the Raikom, who enjoyed multiple apartments and “dachas” and used 25 rubles for lighting the barbecue fire, they worshiped the “grass-eating ox” and thereby set an example that many admired: they were seen as “open-eyed” and “men of the world.” Those who ostensibly condemned these “elites” would largely act similarly.
In independent Armenia, little has changed in this regard. The oligarchy and courtiers still worship the same “golden calf” and set similar role models. The situation has remained consistent since 2018. For instance, a minister “lost” a million dollars in his income statement, claiming it was “borrowed” from someone. Another minister spent dozens of 20k AMD notes, placing them on a sword during a wedding ceremony. If “Sashik,” “Lfik,” or other “virtual” heroes were involved, there would be an outcry. However, this behavior generally aligns with the current ethical norms among Armenians.
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One notable change, however, is for the worse. In an atmosphere of widespread cynicism, there were heroes who, despite their shortcomings in peacetime, bravely defended the homeland during the war. In the context of the recent 44-day conflict, only deserters, traitors, and the “5th column” are officially recognized.
Aram Abrahamyan
