ANAHID

[Other] The most prominent goddess in the pre-Christian pantheon of ancient Armenia; related etymologically and symbolically to the Persian water/fertility deity Anahita. Worshipped principally as a mother figure, Anahid was referred to ritually as "Life-Giver", "Golden Mother", and "Benefactress of All Mankind." Anahid's feast days fell in spring and autumn; the most important ceremony dedicated to her was held on the fifteenth day of Navasard, the first month of the ancient Armenian calendar.