Wednesday, March 25, 2009

The Holy Annunciation of the Theotokos

Icon of the Annunciation of the Theotokos, with Christ depicted in the Panagia's Holy Womb (taken from: http://www.agiooros.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=12&t=3444&start=50)
Kontakion.
Mode pl. 4. Original Melody.

O Champion General, I your City now inscribe to you, * triumphant anthems as the tokens of my gratitude, * being rescued from the terrors, O Theotokos. * Inasmuch as you have power unassailable, * from all kinds of perils free me so that unto you * I may cry aloud: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.

OEkos.
An Angel of supreme rank was sent down from heaven to say to the Theotokos, Rejoice. And perceiving You take bodily form at the sound of his bodiless voice, O Lord, he was astounded and he stood shouting to her such salutations:
Rejoice, through whom is the joy to shine forth. Rejoice, through whom is the curse to vanish.
Rejoice, restoration of Adam the fallen one. Rejoice, liberation of Eve from tears.
Rejoice, height to which the thoughts of men are hardly able to ascend. Rejoice, depth which for the Angels’ eyes is very hard to apprehend.
Rejoice, for you are a throne for the King. Rejoice, for you hold the One who holds everything.
Rejoice, the star causing the Sun’s manifestation. Rejoice, the womb of the divine incarnation.
Rejoice, through whom is creation recreated. Rejoice, by whom is the Creator procreated.
Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.
Doxastikon of the Praises - 2nd ToneThe age-old mystery is revealed today, and the Son of God becomes the Son of man, so that by partaking of what is lower He may impart to me what is superior. Of old, Adam was deceived; and he did not become God, though this was his desire. But now, God becomes man, to make Adam god. Let creation sing for joy, and let nature be exultant. For the Archangel is standing with awe before the Virgin and is delivering the salutation, ʺRejoice, ʺ the reverse of the pain and sorrow. O our God, who in Your tender mercy became man, glory to You!
(Texts from Fr. Seraphim Dedes at: http://sgpm.goarch.org/ematins/bilingual/Mar25.pdf)

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