Ode 7. The Irmos.

Iambic. The Irmos.

‘The Youths brought up together in godliness, scorning the impious decree, feared not the threat of fire, but standing in the midst of the flame they sang: God of our Fathers, blessed are you!’

Shepherds abiding in the fields had a vision of light which filled them with fear; for the glory of the Lord shone round them and an Angel crying aloud: Sing praises, for Christ is born. God of our Fathers, blessed are you!’

Suddenly, at the word of the Angel, the armies of heaven cried: Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, among men good will, Christ, has shone forth. God of our Fathers, blessed are you!’

What is this word? the Shepherds said. Let us go that we may see what has come to pass, Christ God. Having come to Bethlehem they worshipped him, with her who gave him birth, as they sang out: God of our Fathers, blessed are you!’

‘Caught and held fast by love for the King of all,

‘The Young Men despised the impious threats

‘Of the tyrant in his boundless fury;

‘And when the dread fire withdrew from them, they said

‘To the Master: Unto all ages, blessed are you!’

Seething and roaring in its wrath the flame

Burnt up when heated sevenfold the servants,

But the Young Men it saves, as victors crowns.

On whom the Lord, rewarding piety,

Bestows abundantly his cooling dew.

Christ our Defender, you shamed mortals’ foe,

Having your incarnation beyond speech

As shield, in human form bringing the joy

Of being like God; in hope of which we once

Fell from on high into the murky depths.

You have cast down by your almighty power

Fierce sin that raised its head in wanton pride,

And raged blaspheming through a world gone mad.

Those once dragged down today you save from snares,

O Benefactor, by your will made flesh.