THE INTERPLAY OF RELIGION AND DIPLOMACY IN ANCIENT CAUCASIAN ALBANIA

Abstract

Religion has been a significant factor in shaping political and social relations throughout history. In the case of Caucasian Albania, a kingdom in the southern part of the Caucasus, religion played a crucial role in shaping diplomatic ties between the state and its neighbors. The adoption of Zoroastrianism and Christianity brought new cultural practices and traditions to the region, contributing to the development of art, architecture, and literature. The article begins by providing an overview of Caucasian Albania’s political and religious landscape, highlighting society’s cultural and religious diversity. It examines the various religious traditions present in the region, including Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and local indigenous beliefs, and their influence on diplomatic practices. Through analysis of primary sources, the article identifies key patterns and strategies employed by Caucasian Albanian rulers in utilizing religion as a tool of diplomacy. It explores how religious affiliations, alliances, and conversions were leveraged to establish diplomatic ties with the Byzantine Empire, and Sassanids and maintain stability in a complex geopolitical landscape. By unraveling the dynamics of religious diplomacy in Caucasian Albania, this article offers a nuanced understanding of the interplay between religion and diplomacy, contributing to broader discussions on the historical and cultural dimensions of diplomatic practices.