An Examination of the Reasons for the Qajar Government's Support for the Armenians Subject to Echmiadzin

The presence of Christian Armenians in Iran has a very long history, and the continued presence of Armenians in Iran and their avoidance of emigrating to other lands indicates Islam's respect for monotheistic religions, including Christianity and Christian Armenians, affinities, deep historical and cultural ties, and improving relations between Iranians and Armenians during this period. During the Qajar period, Echmiadzin played an important role in regulating relations between Christian Armenians and the Muslim Qajar kings. As a factor of unity between Armenians and Muslims living in the geographical area of Iran, Echmiadzin was able to prevent their separation. The Qajar kings and Echmiadzin sought a sustainable coexistence to achieve their goals. As a religious institution, but with political, social and economic functions, Echmiadzin was able to play a pivotal role in resolving disputes and problems and organizing Armenian issues by gaining the trust of the Muslim Qajar kings and their subordinate Armenians during the reign of the Qajar kings. This research aims to examine the reasons for the Qajar government's support for the Armenians subordinate to Echmiadzin (based on the Persian decrees of the Matenadaran). Therefore, it seeks to answer these questions: 1- What were the reasons for the Qajar government's support for the Armenians subordinate to Echmiadzin? 2- What functions did the Armenians subordinate to Echmiadzin have for the Qajar government? The research findings indicate that the Qajar government supported the Armenians subordinate to Echmiadzin for economic, social and political reasons. Armenians, as active traders, played an important role in the country's economy and supporting them helped to strengthen government revenues. This support also helped maintain social balance and prevent ethnic tensions. In competition with the Ottoman Empire, the Armenians could act as an ally against them. Furthermore, the cultural and educational development of the Armenians added to the richness of Iranian society and strengthened security and stability in various regions.