Treasuries are a form of Armenian medieval musical manuscripts that summarise both Treasuries and Odes. Occasionally, there are separate collections that focus solely on Treasuries or solely on Odes. These Treasuries represent a unique expression of the Armenian medieval monastic lifestyle. They consist of extensive texts that are the most substantial spiritual hymns, summarising the narratives related to the sacrament or saint of the day, along with explanations and interpretations of those narratives. They also feature panegyrical sections dedicated to them, general formulas of penitence, concluding prayers, and intercessory prayers interwoven throughout.
Treasuries were performed during the morning and evening hours of festive days; however, their original forms have not been preserved in contemporary ritual singing.
The fundamental reinterpretation of the sermon genre is attributed to Grigor Narekatsi. Although the names of Treasury authors before him are largely unknown, the term “Treasury” itself originated from the initial form of his works in this genre. Most of Narekatsi’s poetry began with the word “Treasury,” which is how the genre acquired its name.
Following Grigor Narekatsi, one of the greatest hymnographers, was Mkhitar Ayrivanetsi (1265–1275). His cultural contributions were marked by a focus on collecting spiritual heritage. He compiled a “Charentir,” which included all the essential materials for spiritual reading. Ayrivanetsi’s Treasuries are noted for their comprehensive narratives that convey the significance of the day in its entirety.
Other famous hymnographers include Khachatur Kecharetsi (1260-1330) and Mkrtich, whose Treasuries are often found together in manuscripts. Grigor Khlatetsi (1349-1425) played a vital role in the subsequent editing of the Treasuries, compiling them into complete collections of Treasuries and Odes. His student, Arakel Baghishetsi (1380-1454), preserved the authorial Treasury. According to Khaz notation, all the Treasuries were sung using a general formula.
The Mashtots Matenadaran collection contains approximately 200 Treasuries.
