LAZARUS OF PARB (PHARPI; PARBETZI). - An Armenian author, priest, born c. 440, author of a history of the Armenian people, a continuation of that of Faustus of Byzantium, covering the period from 384 to 485.
In this work is included the story of the vision of St. Sahak, patriarch, whose authenticity and historicity are doubted by scholars. At the end is the letter of L. addressed to Prince Vahan, in which he defends himself against calumnies, and where the society of the time is depicted in dark colors of moral decay, especially due to the ignorance of the clergy.
The work of L. is a precious source for the history of Armenia in his time, owing to the realistic and sincere narrative style, drawn from eyewitness accounts and reliable traditions.