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.

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