A member of the Suren family[1] and a relative of the Sasanian king Khosrau I himself,[1][2] Chihor-Vishnasp enjoyed a high status, and served as the hazarapet (minister of the interior) of Persian Armenia, before he was appointed as the marzban of the province in 564.
[2] During this period, the Armenian aristocracy was split between two parties, the national one which was headed by a member of the Mamikonian family, and a pro-Sasanian one, which was headed by a member of the Siunia family.
Claiming to exploit on the command of the king, he persecuted the Christian Armenians and even built a fire-temple in their capital, Dvin.
[1] These actions soon resulted in a massive uprising in late 571 or early 572, which was led by Vardan III Mamikonian.
On 23 February 572, the Armenian rebels managed to capture Dvin, and had Chihor-Vishnasp killed.