Akathist to the Mother of God
The Akathist to the Mother of God is a Marian hymn from the Byzantine Orthodox tradition. This hymn to the Virgin Mary dates back to the 7th century and is attributed to Saint Romanos the Melodist. This ancient form of praise also exists for Christ, the Holy Spirit, the saints, and the Guardian Angel, but the first and best-known remains the one to the Mother of God.
The Greek etymology of the word— a-kathiste —emphasizes the fact that this hymn is sung while standing. Here is the first section, which recalls the mystery of the Annunciation:
Rejoice
“An angel, among those who stand before the Glory of the Lord, was sent to say to the Mother of God: ‘Rejoice! He bends the heavens and descends, He who comes to dwell within you in all His fullness. I see Him taking flesh in your womb at my greeting!” With joy, the angel acclaims her:
Rejoice, in whom the joy of Salvation shines forth
Rejoice, in whom the dark curse is extinguished
Rejoice, in whom Adam is raised from his fall
Rejoice, in whom Eve is freed from her tears
Rejoice, Mountain whose height
surpasses human understanding
Rejoice, Abyss whose depth is unfathomable even to the angels
Rejoice, for you become the Throne of the King
Rejoice, for you carry in your womb the One who bears all
Rejoice, Star that heralds the Rising of the Sun
Rejoice, for you welcome into your flesh your Child and your God
Rejoice, for you are the first of the New Creation
Rejoice, for in you we worship the Creator of the universe
Rejoice, Unmarried Bride!
The Most Holy One replied to the angel Gabriel with confidence: “This is an unexpected word, which seems incomprehensible to my soul, for you tell me that I, a virgin, will give birth.”
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!”
Pray to Mary, Mother of God, with Hosana
Rejoice, Mary!
- The Mother of God also invites us to rejoice. Discover, , how to grow in faith.
- to become closer to our Mother by praying to her daily and drawing inspiration from the saints who loved her.
