Ode 5. The Irmos.

**Theotokion.**

Shed on my humble soul, O Christ, the rays of your light which knows no evening, and guide me to the fear of you; for your commands are light.

**Theotokion.**

You were lifted up on the tree of the Cross and you lifted up the whole world with you; and among the dead as God you raise those who have been dead since time began.

Christ has risen as he said, having emptied the palaces of Hell, and he appears to the Apostles, giving them a share in the joy that lasts forever.

A snow-white, dazzling Angel appeared to the women saying, ‘Do not weep. Our Life has arisen, having given life to the dead in the graves’.

As you raised the Paralysed Man, O Christ, heal my soul crippled by transgressions, and lead me aright to walk in your straight paths.

Michael, Prince of Angels, save the people which throngs your temple to-day and proclaims the wonderful works of God.

Equal in honour, triple Unity, separated faithfully in persons but united in nature, are Father, Son and the divine Spirit.

We praise your child-bearing without seed and your birth-giving beyond understanding, O Pure one, calling you blessed as Mother of the Maker of all things and Master.

The deep of the passions has risen up against me, and a tempest of contrary winds; but come quickly, my Saviour, save me and deliver me from corruption, as you saved the Prophet from the beast.

Willingly you were raised on a tree, you were placed as a dead man in a tomb, and having given life to all the dead in Hell together, you rose, O Christ, by divine power.

Hell meeting you below was embittered, Merciful one, and hastily gave back his prisoners, as they hymned your dread Resurrection, Saviour, with never silent voices.

The divine Disciples, when they saw the life of all come from the grave, with great desire, right judgement and gladness of soul worshipped the risen Christ.

He who of old had lain for many years on a bed of pain, at your order, was made whole, O Christ Giver of life and with hymns he glorified your compassion.

Michael, Prince of Angels, who stand by the throne of the Master, be present among us now and guide us who have gained you as a fervent protector towards paths of life.

With the dread armies above, I reverence you, Trinity in persons; I proclaim you, Unity in Being, O Father without beginning, Son, right Spirit, God of all.

He who upholds all things by his divine command, Virgin Mother of God, is held in your arms. He snatches us all from the enslaving hand of the foe, for he is compassionate.