Ode 8. The King of heaven.

**O** Virgin Martyr, strange seemed your thought; for you dwelt in a tomb as if in Eden, as you sang the praise of Christ to the ages.

**R**efusing that the bright beauty of your virginity be darkened, you chose to die, and now you live to the ages.

**I**ntimately linked with Christ, the life-giving and supernatural Bridegroom, you chose wild beasts, first Champion, as guardians of your virginity.

**F**linging aside your garment of corruption, Christ’s well-equipped competitor reached a life without decay to the ages.

The One who came down from heaven and dwelt in a virgin womb, praise and highly exalt to all the ages.

The King of heaven, whom the ranks of Angels praise, praise and highly exalt to all the ages.