Ode 9. Irmos.

Of the Forerunner. Another Irmos.

For he that is mighty has done great things for you, declaring you a pure Virgin after childbirth, for you gave birth without seed to your own Maker; and so, Mother of God, we magnify you.

That I may magnify your forbearance, O Mighty One, be forbearing to me still and do not cut me off like the barren fig tree, O Word, I cry to you, that I may offer you fruits of repentance.

How fearful are you, alone Powerful and Mighty! And who will withstand your fearful threat, when you are about to take your seat for judgement? At which keep me uncondemned.

Of the Martyrs.

By your godlike sufferings, Athletes of the Lord, you take away sufferings of bodies; and so heal the dreadful passions of my soul, as you are most skilled physicians.

The casket of your relics blazes with beams of divine grace more than the rays of the sun; it makes radiant the hearts and resplendent the souls of those who with faith sing your praise, O Champions.

A cloud formed of light going before a new people to the land of promise you have truly been declared, O grace by God, and a gateway leading to life; and so, Mother of God, we magnify you.

O Isaias, dance.

See, the beauty of your house is known as heaven on earth, Forerunner of Christ; coming to it you shine with godlike rays on those who in it each day now call you blessed.

As a true friend of the Master, all-blessed Baptist, hearten me to love him with upright and unwavering intent, and utterly to abhor the devastating passions that impel men to destruction.

Wise Saint, you were not born as a reed shaken by hostile winds, but as our divine support and unshakeable buttress of the Church. By your prayers keep her unmoved, making an end of every stumbling block.

The coming of the Creator is at the doors. Why then, wretched soul, do you not grieve for yourself, but live neglectfully? Wake up! Cry to the Lord: Spare me, O Saviour, at the prayers of the Forerunner, as you love humankind.

Immaculate and pure, you appeared as a light-bearing chariot of the Sun, who shone from your womb and banished the dread darkness of deception. Therefore, as is fitting, with faith we magnify you.