Matagh facts for kids

Matagh of a rooster at the entrance of a monastery church (Alaverdi, Armenia, 2009), with inset of bloody steps.

In Armenian Christian tradition, matagh (Armenian: մատաղ mataġ) is a special meal. It involves preparing a lamb or a rooster. This practice is a way to thank God and has been part of Armenian culture for a long time. Today, in many parts of Armenia, people still prepare matagh, often near churches.

Matagh is usually done to ask God for forgiveness, good health, or to thank him for something good that happened. People often gather at the house where the matagh was prepared. They pray together and then eat the special meal. A tradition says that the meat must be eaten before sundown. Also, any salt used for the meal should be blessed.

What is Matagh?

Matagh is not a sacrifice to make up for wrongdoings, as some might think. It is different from the animal sacrifices mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. As a priest named Fr. Vazken Movsesian explains, Matagh is not a magical spell. The Armenian Church does not support such ideas.

Most Armenians see Matagh as a simple way to show thanks to God. It is also a way to share food and help those who are poor or in need. Many people describe it as being like any other special meal shared through the Church. It is a way of "paying it forward" and showing kindness.

How is Matagh Prepared?

The meat for Matagh is prepared in a simple way. It is usually cooked on a stove top, often as a dish called Khashlama. Only a few spices are used. The meat should not be grilled over a fire.

It is also a tradition that the prepared meat should be shared among seven families. These families can be relatives or neighbors. Often, a Matagh is done as a way to thank God after a difficult event, like an accident, that had a good outcome. It's a way to express gratitude for safety or recovery.