Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos

The Tradition of Marian Devotion in the Eastern Christian Churches goes back to the earliest of times. One of the vital, focal, and well known tradition is the Akathist to the Theotokos. An Akathist, in the Greek, is a Hymn dedicated to the Trinity. This one in particular, is used in the Saturdays of Lent. I have posted the initial portion, so that you can get an idea of the basic rhythm and form. It is an incredibly extravagant and ostentatious hymn of joy to Mary. I recommend reading the whole thing in it’s entirety at Monachos.

Having secretly received the command, the Archangel hastened into Joseph’s abode and spoke to the Holy Virgin. He Who bowed the Heavens with His descending, is wholly contained, yet unchanged in You. And seeing Him taking the likeness of a servant in your womb, I stand in amazement and cry unto you:

Rejoice, O Unwedded Bride!
Rejoice, O Unwedded Bride!
Rejoice, O Unwedded Bride!

Kontakion 1

Unto you, O Theotokos, invincible Champion, your City [or “we your people”], in thanksgiving ascribes the victory for the deliverance from sufferings. And having your might unassailable, free us from all dangers, so that we may cry unto you:

Rejoice, O Unwedded Bride.

Eikos 1

The Archangel was sent from Heaven to cry ‘Rejoice!’ to the Theotokos. And beholding You, O Lord, taking bodily form, he stood in awe, and with his bodiless voice he cried aloud to her such things as these:

Rejoice, you through whom joy shall shine forth. Rejoice, you through whom the curse will vanish.
Rejoice, the Restoration of fallen Adam. Rejoice, the Redemption of the tears of Eve.
Rejoice, O Height beyond human logic. Rejoice, O depth invisible even to the eyes of Angels.
Rejoice, for you are the King’s throne. Rejoice, you bear Him, Who bears the universe.
Rejoice, O Star revealing the Sun. Rejoice, O Womb of divine Incarnation.
Rejoice, you through whom creation is renewed. Rejoice, you through whom the Creator is born a Babe.

Rejoice, O Unwedded Bride.

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