Gregory of Narek was a 10th-century Armenian monk, theologian, and poet who lived in the Kingdom of Vaspurakan. Born near Lake Van, he was educated at the Narekavank monastery, where he later served as a priest and teacher. He is widely regarded as a central figure in Armenian religious and literary history. His most famous work, the *Book of Lamentations*, is a profound collection of mystical prayers that explores the relationship between human unworthiness and divine grace. He is venerated as a saint in several Christian traditions.