Ode 4. Irmos.

Of the Mother of God. The same Irmos.

When I was hostile you loved me greatly. You came down to earth, compassionate Saviour, by a strange self-emptying, not spurning the indignity of my lowest state, and while remaining in the height of your ineffable glory, you glorified the one who had before been dishonoured.

Who now is not amazed, Master, as they see death destroyed through suffering, corruption taking flight through the Cross, Hell emptied of its wealth through death? This is the amazing action of your power, the Crucified lover of humankind.

You are the boast of the faithful, Mother without bridegroom, you are the protection, you are the refuge of Christians, their wall and harbour; for you bring their entreaties to your Son, All-blameless Lady, and you save from dangers those who with faith and love acknowledge you to be the pure Mother of God.

Another, of Cross and Resurrection.

The children of the lawless nailed you to the Cross, Lover of humankind. Through it in your compassion you saved those who glorify your sufferings.

By rising from the grave, you raised with you all the dead in Hell, and in your compassion you enlightened those who glorify your Resurrection.

Immaculate Mary, implore the God whom you bore to grant your suppliants forgiveness of their offences.

Mother of God, the unploughed plough land that produced the ear of corn which grants life to the world, save those who sing your praise.

All we who have been enlightened know you, All-pure, to be Mother of God, for you, Ever-Virgin, bore the Sun of justice.

Grant us pardon of our offences, as you are without sin, and give peace to your world, O God, at the entreaties of her who gave you birth.