Ode 4. Irmos.

Of the Forerunner. Another Irmos.

I heard your report, Lord, and was afraid; I knew of your dispensation and I glorified you, only Lover of mankind.

Despising your words, Lord, that lead to light I have done works of darkness, and I tremble therefore at your great assize.

With the sail of godly fear let us give the skiff of the soul wings and make for the harbour of repentance fleeing the waves of evils.

Of the Martyrs.

You appeared, O Martyrs, like divine mountains dripping sweetness, and as a paradise planted by God you contain a tree of life: the Lord.

With arrows of endurance and courage, Holy Ones, you slaughtered hostile demons and received crowns of glory.

The all-pure Lady, the defence of those who sin, godlike righting of those who fall is glorified as she who gave birth to God.

Reflecting prophetically.

Dwelling in the Palaces on high as a true soldier of Christ the King entreat him ceaselessly, O Baptist, to take pity on a people that honours you.

Foreseeing the nobility of your heart, revered Saint, the Lord sanctified you from the womb; implore we beg to sanctify us all.

You brought to the dead the good tidings of the coming of the One who was put to death for us; implore him, O Forerunner, to give life to me also, who have been put to death by sins, and save me.

You were familiar with bonds and guards for Christ, blest Saint, abolish the bonds of my evils, I beg, and give me power to guard the honoured commandments.

Have mercy on me, only All-praised, who gave birth beyond explanation to the merciful God by his surpassing goodness and deliver me from eternal punishment.