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Corresponding Author

Oder Alizade

Document Type

Original Study

Keywords

Hephthalites, Vahaneanc Uprising, Łazar Pʿarpetsʿi, Sasanians, South Caucasus.

Abstract

This study examines the historical impact and representation of the Hephthalites in the context of the Vahaneanc uprising (482-484), a Christian rebellion against Sasanian rule in South Caucasia, as described in the work of Ğazar Pʿarpetsʿi, a 5th-century Armenian historian. Pʿarpetsʿi’s records of the events have been evaluated in comparison with other primary historical sources and attempted to be understood within the historical context of the period. This study is based on Grabarca’s critical edition, which relies on the 1891 Venice edition and the 1904 Tiflis edition of the work. Pʿarpetsʿi’s relevant record has been examined by comparing it with data from contemporary Greek, Syriac, and Albanian historical sources covering the period in question. Within this framework, the influence and representation of the Hephthalites and their position within the Hun world have also been addressed. In addition, an attempt has been made to demonstrate the decisive impact of Peroz’s heavy defeat against the Hephthalites in 484 on the course of the Christian uprisings in the South Caucasus. The military successes of the Hephthalites against the Sassanids became an indirect saving grace for the Christian rebels, without any direct alliance, and ensured the success of the uprising.

Receive Date

13 December 2025

Accept Date

12 February 2026

Publication Date

3-31-2026

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