AT VESPERS
Anastasis liturgical translations — translated by Ephrem Lash
**Prosomia. Tone 1.**
Both now. **Theotokion.**
Virgin maidens, having struggled valiantly for you, O Christ, were brought to the King, rejoicing, full of gladness and overflowing with joy they drew near to you, the Tree of Life, interceding that to our souls may be granted your peace and great mercy.
Cross-Theotokion. Same melody.
Virgin maidens, drawn by the sweet scent of your myrrh, followed your footsteps, imitating your life-bearing passion that saves the soul; and they went towards the resurrection of the dead, rejoicing in you, O Benefactor, and delighting clearly in your beauty.
Virgin maidens of the foremother Eve, fittingly you are carried by a longing to be made divine, looking towards God with unyielding purpose, and borne up by an unflinching longing; now too intercede that to our souls may be granted peace and great mercy.
Pure Virgin, you alone were named dwelling of the Light that dawned from the Father. Therefore I cry out to you: Make bright with the light of the virtues my soul, darkened by the passions, and make me dwell in shining tabernacles on the day of judgement, O Immaculate.
The Virgin as she watched your unjust slaughter, O Christ, lamented and cried to you: My sweetest Child, how are you hanging on a Tree, you that hung the earth on the waters? Do not, most merciful Benefactor, leave me alone, your Mother and your servant.
Translated by Ephrem Lash. Edition lash.en.anastasis.