East Syrian Daily Offices (Maclean translation)

East Syrian Daily Offices (Maclean translation)

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The Ferial Morning Service

1 Prayer before the Morning Psalms. O Compassionate, Merciful, and Pitiful one, whose door is open to them that repent, and who ever callest sinners to come near to thee in penitence; open, O our Lord and our God, the door of mercies to our prayer; and receive our request, and return an answer in thy mercies to our petitions, from thy rich and overflowing treasury, O thou who art good and who stayest not thy mercies and gifts to the needy and afflicted, thy servants, who call on thee and beseech thee, at all seasons and times, Lord of all, etc. They answer. Amen. Bless, O my Lord. Another. O my Lord, all creatures whom thou hast created, who have been fashioned by thy purpose, who by thy will have come into being, the cause of whose being thou art, and the breath and inspiration of our life, hasten to kneel and worship thee, sing and chant Hallelujah to thee, are glad and rejoice in thee, ask and entreat thee, make request and beseech thee, confess and glorify thee, Lord of all, etc.

2 THE PSALMS. Psalm c., farced thus. Glorify the Lord, all the whole earth. O Giver of light, O Lord, we lift up glory to thee. Glorify the Lord all the whole earth. Serve the Lord, etc., to the end of the Psalm. Glory be, etc. From everlasting to everlasting. Amen. Glorify the Lord, all the whole earth. O Giver of light, etc. Let us pray, Peace be with us. Prayer. To thee, O my Lord, we lift up glory and confession, and continually offer worship and thanksgiving to thy living and holy Name, for thou art the Lord and Creator of all, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, for ever. Amen. Ps. xci. and Gloria, farced, as before, with Glorious is thy confident hope, O Christ our Saviour. Deacon. Let us pray, Peace be with us. Prayer. Glorious, O my Lord, is the great and confident hope of thy Godhead, and high and exalted is the wondrous refuge of thy Majesty, and all who hope in thee, and trust in thee, and call on thy holy Name, and beseech thee, at all seasons and times, shall not be ashamed, O Lord of all, etc.

3 Ps. civ. (vv. 1-16 to full of sap), farced with Glory becometh thee, O God. No Gloria. Add Glory becometh, etc. Ps. cxiii., farced with Glory to him who created the light. No Gloria. Add Glory to him, etc. Ps. xciii., cxlviii., cxlix., cl., cxvii., said without farcing, and all under one Gloria. Add Glorify the Lord, all the whole earth.* O Giver of light, O Lord, even to thee do we lift up glory. Deacon. Let us pray, Peace be with us. Prayer of the Lakhumara. Thee, O my Lord, we are bound, heaven and earth and all that is in them, to confess, worship, and glorify, for all thy helps and graces towards us, the greatness of which cannot be repaid, Lord of all, etc. They all say the Lakhumara. Thee, Lord of all, we confess. And thee, Jesus Christ, we glorify. For thou art the Quickener of our bodies. And thou art the Saviour of our souls. My

4 voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord, and in the morning I will be prepared, and will appear before thee. Thee, Lord of all. Glory be. From everlasting. Thee, Lord of all. Let us pray, Peace be with us. Prayer. Thee, who quickenest our bodies in thy compassion, and answerest (us), and savest our souls by the mild purpose of thy will, great King of glory, Being who art from everlasting, we confess, worship, and glorify, at all seasons and times, Lord of all, etc. Ps. li. (vv. 1-18). Have mercy upon me, O God, after thy goodness. And according to the multitude of thy mercies do away mine offences. Have mercy upon me, O Lord. Have mercy upon me, O God, after . . . not despise. Have mercy upon me, O Lord. Glory be. From everlasting. Have mercy upon me, O Lord. Have mercy upon me, O God, after thy goodness. And according to the multitude of thy mercies do away mine offences. O Christ the King, have mercy upon me. O Christ the King, glory to thy Name.

5 TISHBUKHTA by Mar Ephraim, or, as some say, by Mar Awa, Catholicos. To thee be glory, O our God. And to thee be praise, O our Maker. We bless thee, who didst form us. O compassionate Lord. O merciful God. Pitiful Creator. O Saviour, who dost preserve us. Who dost help and aid us. We worship thee, O our Lord. For thou art long-suffering, and thy lovingkindness is great. O Merciful one, pity us and have mercy upon us. Turn to us in the multitude of thy mercies. Our confident hope and strong refuge. O Lord our God, make thy face to shine, and we shall be saved. O thou who receivest the penitent in mercy. Receive our prayer and service. O thou who hearest the voice of thy worshippers. Let our request come before thee, and have mercy upon us. O thou who forgivest the trespasses of mortals in thy compassion. Forgive us our trespasses and sins in thy compassion. O thou who pardonest the sins of the sons of men in thy lovingkindness. Pardon our many sins, and have mercy upon us.* O good Hope of the sons of men, give us peace and tranquillity. That we may confess thy Trinity, O Lord of all, for ever. Amen. Repeat thrice from the asterisk.

6 They say, Let us pray, Peace be with us. Prayer. O Christ, the good Hope of the sons of men, and the peaceful Haven which giveth peace to (all) creatures; do thou, O my Lord, grant us thy peace and tranquillity, that therein we may confess and glorify thee without ceasing, all the days of our life, Lord of all, etc. Deacon. Lift up your voices, and glorify the living God, all ye people. They all say, Holy Ghost, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy upon us. Glory be. Holy God. From everlasting. Holy God. Let us pray, Peace be with us. They say, Our Father, farced (page 1). Prayer before the Martyrs' Anthem. O Compassionate one, whose Name is Holy, who art good and just from everlasting, overflowing with lovingkindness and mercy, pour forth, O our Lord and our God, the compassion of the kindness of thy love on the souls of thy worshippers, who call on thee and beseech thee, at all seasons and times, Lord of all, etc.

7 Another. Bless, O my Lord, thy servants in thy loving-kindness, and keep thy worshippers from all harm in the overflowing abundance of thy mercy; feed, rule, help, and protect our lives beneath the wings of the care of thy love; save, rescue, and deliver our bodies and our souls from the Evil one and his hosts, at all seasons and times, Lord of all, etc. THE MARTYRS' ANTHEM. One for each day in the week (see below, page 109). DAILY ANTHEM. At the early dawn of the morning we glorify thee, O Lord. For thou art the Saviour of all creatures. Give us in thy compassion. A day full of peace. And grant us forgiveness of sins.* Cut not off our hope. Shut not thy door in our face. Stay not thy care for us. And recompense us not as we deserve, O God. For thou alone knowest our weakness. Sow, O our Lord, in the whole world. Love, and peace, and concord. And raise up priests, and kings, and judges, and give peace to them of high estate. Heal the sick and preserve the whole. And pardon the trespasses of all the sons of men. In the way that we walk. Let thy lovingkindness keep us, O my Lord. As (it kept) the boy David from Saul. Give us, in thy compassion, that towards which we make our way. That we may arrive, according to thy will, in peace.* By the lovingkindness which preserved the prophet Moses in the sea. And raised up Daniel from the (lions') den. And by which were rescued. They of the company of Ananias in the furnace. Deliver us, O our Lord, from the Evil one.

8 Another. At morning time we all arise. And worship the Father. And lift up praise to the Son. And confess the Holy Ghost. May the lovingkindness of the Father. And the compassion of the Son. And the pity of the Spirit. A threefold mystery, be our help, all our days. In thee, O our Helper. O our true Physician, have we confident trust. Apply the medicine of thy mercies, and heal our bruises. That we be not utterly destroyed. Without thy help we are very weak. In keeping thy commandments. O Christ, who aidest those who fulfil thy will. Keep thy worshippers. With entreaty let us beg and beseech mercy. And ask for forgiveness. From the Compassionate one, whose door is open. To all to (turn) to him and repent.* Day by day I promise thee that to-morrow I will repent. My days have passed and gone. And my trespasses remain. O Christ, pity me and have mercy upon me.

9 They say, Let us pray, Peace be with us. Prayer. Of thee, O great and true Hope, for whom the just and the prophets waited in their generations, whom the righteous pleased by their labours, and the holy martyrs propitiated by the precious blood which poured forth from their necks, we beseech and ask, Grant us, O our Lord and our God, that we may take refuge in the power hidden in their bones, and be helped by their prayers, and with them and among them, and in their companies, and around their tombs, and in the glorious temples set apart for the honour of their service, be made worthy to lift up to thee praise, honour, confession, and worship, at all times, Lord of all, etc. Another. May the martyrs, O our Lord and our God, who by thy power and help overcame, humiliated, and brought to nought the error of heathenism, and exalted and raised the true faith of thy Name, make request, O my Lord, and beseech for us of thy justice, in the great and glorious day when thy justice is revealed from heaven, O just Judge, full of mercies, who forgivest offences and sins, Lord of all, etc.

10 Then follow the prayers for help, one or more for each priest who is present, the prayers Of Mary, Of the Apostles, and Of our father, with the Conclusion, as at the Evening Service (page 16). Conclusion. Bestow, O our Lord and our God, in thy lovingkindness, at this morning time, salvation to the oppressed, release to the prisoners, restoration to the tormented, healing to the sick, return to those who are far away, preservation to those who are near, pardon to sinners, acceptance to the penitent, exaltation to the righteous, supply of their needs to the poor, finding to the lost, bringing back to them that are driven away, a good and acceptable memorial to the departed, mercy and compassion to all that are created and made; and grant to us and all men those things which will help us weak sinners, and please thy majesty, in thy lovingkindness and mercies, Christ the hope of our nature, now ☩ and at all times and for ever and ever. Amen. He makes the sign of the cross over the people.

11 Or any of the Conclusions at the Evening Service may be used (page 20). They answer, May Christ hear thy prayers, etc., as at the Evening Service. They give the kiss of peace, and say the Nicene Creed (page 22).

The Morning Martyrs' Anthems — Monday Morning.

12 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord. At morning time, when are opened. The doors on high to prayer. Receive, O our Lord, our request. Ps. v. 3. And return answer to our petitions in thy mercies. And grant hope and salvation. To the souls who wait for thee. And in the morning will I be ready, and will appear before thee. The morning of our Lord hath seen him come. 1b. And suddenly our Saviour shineth forth. And giveth a reward to the just. Blessed is he who hath prospered. And hath worked in the vineyard of Christ. And hath received his reward abundantly. O let us hear thy lovingkindness in the morning. Make us worthy, O our Lord, of that morning. When heaven and earth rejoice. And the just rejoice in their labours. And the righteous in their recompense. And the martyrs also in their crowns. And the nations in the forgiveness of their trespasses. Ps. cxliii. 8.

13 And in the morning shall my prayer come before thee. At morning time prayed. Moses the chosen, on the top of the mount. And there God answered him. And gave him the staff of help. That he might descend and save Israel. From the subjection of the Egyptians. To show thy lovingkindness in the morning. At morning time Moses saw. A terrible vision on the top of the mount. God praised with processions. Cherubim bearing his throne. Seraphim singing Holy in his honour. And angels serving him. Sing to the Lord with harps and with a voice of singing. At morning time sang. David the boy with his harp. Songs of the Holy Ghost. And the beasts assembled and came. To the sweet sound of his words. When he sang Hallelujah. And let us praise him with songs. At morning time the martyrs sang. A new song in the judgment hall. We will not deny Christ. Who for us endured. Suffering and death and the cross. And saved our race from error.

14 God hath sent forth his lovingkindness and truth. At morning time the dove. Was sent forth by perfect Noah. Because of the waters of the flood. And she turned and came to the ark. Bearing an olive leaf. A sign of peace and tranquillity. Thou hast given a token for such as fear thee. At morning time a sign. Of peace and tranquillity was seen. The bow of our Lord in the clouds. And the mouth of the Creator sware. I will not cause a flood. Henceforward and for ever. In the sight of all the people. In the morning the martyrs in the judgment hall. Raised and lifted up their voices. We do not worship idols. We worship one God. And confess his Son Jesus. He will deliver us from the fire. Be strong, and your heart shall be established. In the morning the martyrs in the judgment hall. Comfort one another and say. The Lord (is) our helper, we will not fear. What man doeth unto us. Whose crown and power come to nought. But the kingdom of the Lord is for ever.

15 O hear ye this, all ye people. At morning time was heard. The voice which said to the athletes. Take up your crosses and come after me. For I am your Lord and your Master. Your God and Strengthener. And ye are my disciples. He executeth judgment for them that suffer wrong. In the morning the faithful Shmuni. Offered prayer to God. O God, execute judgment for me. Against the unrighteous Antiochus. Who killeth my sons as lambs. And threateneth me as a lion. And your prayers be on all of us. Gadai and Maccabæus, with Tersai. Hebron and Khiusun, with Bakus. And the seventh son, Jonadab. And their teacher, Eleazar. And their mother, faithful Shmuni. May their prayer be a wall to us. The camp of the angels of the Lord. At morning time the martyrs went forth. Many a company of saints. From the prison, saying. Hasten, O king, to cut off our heads. That we may depart and go up to heaven. To our Lord who waiteth for us.

16 For he hath done a marvellous thing. That which was wrought was a marvel. From one end of the world to the other. In the beloved boy Cyriac. Whom at the age of three years. Grace overshadowed. And he was strengthened in the faith. Righteous and upright. May thy prayer, O martyr, be to us. A high wall and refuge. That the arrows of the Evil one may go astray. That he pierce us not with his barb. Who hateth our race at all times. And ever wisheth for our destruction. Like as the arrow in the hand of the giant. How hard was the arrow. With which St. George struck Satan. Ps. cxxvii. 5. And moreover (Satan) affirmed within himself. By Jesus and his disciples. I have not been struck as by this arrow. The arrow of Saint George. O come and hearken, and I will tell you. Hearken and wonder, ye discerners. A Virgin hath borne in Bethlehem. The light of the whole world. And lo, her memorial is celebrated with processions. In the four quarters of creation. And in heaven amongst the angels.

17 Glory be, etc. Glory to thee at morning time. From high and low. O Son who sittest on the right hand. For with the sound of the horn are awaked. Old men and young men and children. Whom thou hast created for thy glory. From everlasting to everlasting. Blessed is he who hath traded. As thou, O our father, hast traded. And hath collected spiritual riches. And hath filled his ship with all good things. And hath prospered and come to the haven. To the set place of all just men. And let all the people say Amen and Amen. O our Lord, thy kingdom come. And thy will be done on earth. Ps. cvi. 46. As it is in heaven. Give us the bread of our need. And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from the Evil one.* May the help which followed. Moses, the firstborn of the prophets. And which divided the sea before the people. Follow thy worshippers. Who have come to ask forgiveness. From the treasury of thy kindness.

Tuesday Morning.

18 Praise the Lord, O ye righteous. O martyrs, ye were merchants. And lo, your storehouse is in heaven. Ps. xxxiii. 1. Ye have bought the pearl. With the blood that your necks poured forth. For it becometh well the upright to give praise. The martyrs who were exalted, and attained. Unto Jerusalem that is in heaven. And bought with the blood of their necks. The country for which they waited. Ib. They went from one nation to another. Ye departed from country to country. But departed not from your Lord. And in every country that ye entered. Ye placed a storehouse of life. Ps. cv. 13. The Lord will abide in it for ever. In the country where your bones are laid. Dwell peace and tranquillity. And the camp of the watchful ones on high. Keepeth it and its inhabiters. Ps. lxviii. 16. Happy are the people that are in such a case. Happy is the country where are laid. Your bones as storehouses. And when the light of the sun is darkened. The light from your bones shineth forth. Ps. cxliv. 15.

19 Unto the godly hath shone forth light in the darkness. A light hath shone forth from your bones. And hath made my captive mind (to follow) after you. And I went forth to see your deaths. And wondered in my self at your crowns. Ps. cxii. 4. More to be desired are they than gold and than precious stones. Your bones are pearls. And your bodies are the fragrance of incense. The blood which flowed from your necks. Brought favour to all creation. Ps. xix. 10. Shall they that are in the graves show thy lovingkindness? Lo, in the Church are your bones. And ye have the keys of the heights. O blessed ones, open your treasures. And give help to the needy. Ps. lxxxviii. 11. As a city surrounded with a wall. Like beams in a building. The martyrs girded creation. And when the earth was about to fall. They supported it by the power of their bones.

20 I was strengthened and could not attain unto it. The sea cannot make a breach. In the wall which your love surroundeth. And Satan hath no power. In the land where your bones are laid. For thy sake have we been killed daily. The Lord, whose martyrs were killed. For the glory of his majesty. In the day when his cross shineth forth. Placeth them on his right hand. For there the Lord promised a blessing and life for evermore. Where the martyrs were killed. And their limbs cut off. There the Holy Ghost came down. And made peace amidst desolation. O come, let us kneel and worship him. Before your graves let us reverence. The power hidden in your bones. And we who have seen your deaths on earth. Will see your crowns in heaven. They that go down to the sea in ships. O martyrs, ye were merchants. And journeyed by sea and land. Ye have brought peace to the sea by (your) tears. And to the land by your prayers.

21 Out of the deep have I called unto thee, O Lord, and thou hast heard my voice. . Out of the deep did the martyrs cry to thee. And thy lovingkindness answered them. Out of the deep do we call to thee. Come and help us and save us. I will alway bless the Lord. Blessed be the Lord, whose servants have fallen asleep. For he exalteth their memorials. They sleep and are in peace and at rest. And from them helps spring forth. How good and beautiful. How excellent is the crown of your heads. Woven by faith. And adorned by the Holy Ghost. With good and precious stones. As a thirsty and tired land that desireth water. As a land that thirsteth for water. And daily longeth for moisture. So thirsted the martyrs. For the love of their dear Lord. Ps. lxiii. 2. They are new (gods) which now have been made. Come in peace, O ye new bridegrooms. Sons of the mystery of baptism. Whom grace made to grow. In the name of the Trinity. Deut. xxxii. 17.

22 And I spake of peace. Peace be to your bones. And rest to your limbs. For ye were like to your Lord. By whose death sinners have obtained life. Ps. cxx. 7. Confess him and bless his Name. Confess the truth and be not slack. Behold the swords and tremble not. For ye have put on hidden armour. Wrought by the Holy Ghost. Ps. c. 3. Both small and great. The martyr said to his fellow. Feeling compassion for his companion. Come, let us die for Jesus. And inherit eternal life. Ps. cxv. 13. The Lord is faithful in his words. The word which our Lord spake. The martyrs heard, and were strengthened by it. He that dieth for me. Hath everlasting life. Ps. cxlv. 13. Syr. Their blood have they shed like water on every side of Jerusalem, and there was no man to bury them. Their blood cried out against them that shed it. As Abel against Cain. The souls of the kings who destroyed their bodies. Are tortured in fire. Ps. lxxix. 3.

23 More to be desired are they than gold and than precious stones. Like chosen stones. And precious pearls. Are the martyrs beloved. Who were killed for Jesus. Ps. xix. 10. How good and beautiful. How beautiful is that ship. Which bore St. Cyriac. Companies of Cherubim bear it in procession. And Seraphim singing Holy. Righteous and upright. The true Bar-Khadh-bshaba. The host of Christ. The founder of a holy Church. Deut. xxxii. 4. May his prayer be a wall to us. From the rising up of the sun unto the going down thereof. Lo, in all quarters is celebrated with processions. Ps. l. 1. The glorious day of the memorial. Of Raban Hurmizd the victorious. Blessed is he who crowned him with victory. Well is thee and blessing to thy soul. Well is thee, O martyr Ps. cxxviii. 2. Mar Sergis. Thy home is like Paradise thickly planted. Make request to thy Lord and beseech him. For our assembly which fletch to thy prayer.

24 I will speak peace of thee. Peace to thee, Mar Pithium the martyr. Who didst endure all suffering and stripes. At the hand of the abominable Astrobiger. And wast given victory by the adorable Jesus. He healeth those that are broken in heart, and cureth their pains. Ps. cxlvii. 3. Thou wast a healer, St. George. Without medicines and roots. And every one that taketh refuge in thee. Is helped by thy prayers. I will seek to do thee good. Beseech, O thou who art full of grace. The Child who shone forth from thy bosom. That he make his peace and tranquillity to dwell. In his Church, bought by his blood. Glory be, etc. Peace to you who have conquered. Peace to you who have been victorious. Peace to you who have become. Partakers in the sufferings of the Son. From everlasting to everlasting. Thy truth is great, O our father. Thy happiness is exalted and glorious. Make request for us all. That we may share in thy joy.

25 And let all the people say Amen and Amen. O thou that hearest the prayers of thy servants. And returnest answer to the petitions of thy worshippers. Hear our prayer and the voice of our request. And return answer to our petitions in thy mercies. O thou whose right hand is stretched out. Whose door is open to the penitent. Open the door to our prayer. And let our request come before thee. O thou about whose throne stand the fiery ones. And companies of the watchful ones. Take away from us all harm. And rebuke the Evil one and let him be put to silence.* O thou who art true and who liest not. Who hast promised, Knock and I open. Be pleased with the prayer of thy worshippers. And return answer to the petitions of our souls.

Wednesday Morning.

26 Let thy servants praise thee, O Lord. O holy martyrs and teachers of faith. Pray that there may be peace in creation. Let wars be brought to nought and contentions cease among us. And may the Church sing praise by the mouth of her children. Ps. cxlv. 10. And thy saints give thanks unto thee. May the holy martyrs who confessed thee in their afflictions. And propitiated thee by the blood which their necks poured forth. Make request for sinners to thee, O our Lord. That in the day of judgment thou mayest forgive their trespasses. Ib. Let them speak of the glory of thy kingdom. The martyrs saw the glory of thy kingdom in their minds. When they were being killed by their persecutors. And they joyfully endured dire tortures in their bodies. And our Lord Jesus received their spirits. Ps. cxlv. 11. Honoured is their blood in his sight. Let us diligently honour with songs of the Holy Ghost. The bones of the martyrs who endured afflictions. That we may find help in the day of the recompense of their labours. From the goodness of the mercies of God.

27 The Lord on high is glorious. On high are your crowns, and in the world are your assemblies. O martyrs, preachers of Christ the King. On high and in the deep, lo, your feasts are celebrated. O sowers of peace in the four quarters (of the earth). Seek the Lord and be strengthened. O martyrs, seek for mercy from the merciful God. That he may make his peace to dwell in the four quarters (of the earth). And when our Lord is revealed and the clouds bear up your bodies. Pray that with you we may inherit the kingdom. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord. In the morning the martyrs cried in the judgment hall before the persecutors. We will not deny the heavenly Bridegroom. For he it is who delivereth us from the hands of the ungodly. .And clotheth our bodies with glory in his kingdom.

28 And in the morning I will be ready, and will appear before thee. In the morning, when Christ the King, who cröwneth you, shineth forth. O prophets, apostles, martyrs, and confessors. And placeth on your heads crowns of glory which fade not. Pray that with you we may inherit the kingdom. Unto the godly hath shone forth light in the darkness. O martyrs, sons of light, who hated the world and its good things. And desired and loved the heavenly Make request and beseech for us your Lord whom ye desired. That he have pity on us and save our souls. Blessed are those that are blameless in the way. Blessed are ye martyrs who conquered Satan. And trod under foot the sting of death May your prayer be to us a high wall and From the wiles of the Evil one, the Enemy. And walk in the law of the Lord. A blessing that passeth not away, and a kingdom that is not destroyed.

29 Hath our Saviour promised to the friends whom he hath chosen. And instead of afflictions and tortures and lacerations which they endured. They are about to inherit life without end. Righteous and upright. A tender boy was the illustrious martyr Cyriac. And he astonished with his words the king and his servants. And then received the sword of the cruel king. And by it was crowned for our Saviour's sake. Beg of the Lord and pray before him. Intercessor for all peoples, and herald of all tongues. Thy Lord hath placed thee in his Church, Mar Sergis. That the prayers of the needy may enter before his majesty. That thou mayest receive and cause to come forth helps to man. Fairer to look at than the children of men. A beautiful shrub, and an olive tree decked with branches. Was St. George, the friend of Christ. Who meekly, in the love he had gained towards his Lord. Stretched forth his shoulder and bore the cross.

30 The virgins that be her fellows shall they lead after her. O holy Virgin Mary, the blessed mother. All nations call thee blessed. For thou wast worthy to carry in thy bosom Emmanuel. Whom the prophets described beforehand in their mysteries. Glory be, etc. Glory to the power which dwelleth in the bones of the saints. Its voice thundereth in the four quarters (of the world). And they are laid in the churches, and helps well forth from them. And truth is revealed by the power of their words. From everlasting to everlasting. O thou who didst love purity all the days of thy life. Thou wast chosen blameless by Christ. And because of thy good deeds, in the tabernacle of the saints. Lo, thy soul dwelleth among the angels. And let all the people say Amen and Amen. Give us, O our Ps. cvi. 46. Lifegiver, that which thou knowest will help us. For we know not what we ask. But one thing we beg for, that thy will may be accomplished in us. And that thy mercies may intercede for us all.* O Christ, who didst promise, To every one that crieth, I answer. And to him that knocketh at my door, I open. Let not thy mercies and thy lovingkindness be far from thy worshippers. Who take refuge in thee, that they may receive help.*

Thursday Morning.

31 For he speaketh peace of his people and with his saints. Peace to the martyrs and honour to their bones. And glory to their Lord. And help to us by their prayer. And in thy light do we see light. The martyrs are in the light, and the apostles in the bridechamber of light. And lo, they sing glory. To the Being who dwelleth in the excellent light. And sing lustily with the voice. The martyrs when they Enter into the kingdom say. Glory to thee, Ps. xxxiii. 3. O our Lord. For we are not confounded, and we trust in thee. Also all they that hope in thee shall not be ashamed. The martyrs say, We have taken refuge in thy Cross. O merciful Lord. Slacken not (thy) hold upon us. He divided the sea, and let them go through. O martyrs, who passed over the bridge of fire to Eden. Pray that we sink not. In the troubled sea of (our) sins.

32 Honoured is their blood in his sight. O Christ, who didst receive the blood of the martyrs in the day when they were killed. Receive our petition. Ps. lxxii. 14. And open the door to our prayer. The Lord on high is glorious. Above on high, and in the boundless treasure. Are laid up the deeds. Ps. xciii. 5. Of the martyrs, the friends of Christ. From of old hath thy seat been set fast. O Son, the throne of whose kingdom is set fast on high. By the prayer of thy saints. Sustain the earth, which our trespasses have overthrown. Ps. xciii. 3. Sing to the Lord with harps and with the voice of singing. With the voice of Hallelujahs and songs of the Holy Ghost. The saints sing. And the companies of demons are moved. Ps. xcviii. 6. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord. Every morning the martyrs stand in prayer. And ask for help. For the souls of sinners. Ps. v. 3.

33 And in the morning I will be ready, and will appear before thee. In the last morning, when the holy martyrs receive. The reward of their deeds. Have compassion on us, O our Lord, in that hour. Ib. Offer unto him sacrifices of praise. May the prayers of the martyrs, who were pure offerings to their Lord. Be unto us. A wall by night and day. Ps. cvii. 22. Blessed are those that are blameless in the way. Blessed are the martyrs when they hear that voice. Come, enter, ye blessed of my father. And inherit life without end. Ps. cxix. 1. And walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are ye whom your Lord hath placed as a treasury. And on the altar is. Your memorial for ever. Ib. Do well, O Lord, unto the good. Blessed are the athletes, who pictured to themselves their own beauty. In the habitation of heaven. That it might not remain on earth and be corrupted.

34 Unto those that are true of heart. Blessed are the martyrs at that time when are divided. The good from the bad. And they inherit the kingdom. The camp of the angels of the Lord. Ye of the company of Diodorus, Theodorus, and Nestorius. Pray that there enter not. Into the Church the darkness of the Egyptians. And your prayers be on all of us. Ye of the company of Mar Ephraim, Mar Nersai, and Mar Abraham. May your prayers be to us. A wall by night and day. A place where no fear was. In the bridechamber of light, on the right hand of Christ. All the holy martyrs. There have joy. How good and beautiful. How excellent, and how much to be desired, is the glory with which the righteous are clothed. In the day of the resurrection. Through the deeds which they have wrought. Righteous and upright. O illustrious and holy martyr, Mar Cyriac. Beseech Christ. That he cause to pass away the multitude of our evils.

35 In heaven and in earth. Thy body is on earth and thy soul is in heaven. O martyr George. Beg for mercies from thy Lord. Unto the godly there hath shone forth light in the darkness. O Christ, who didst shine forth from blessed Mary. By the prayer of her who bore thee. Keep thy Church from harm. Glory be, etc. Peace to the Church, and tranquillity to all who dwell in her. And glory to the Power. Who strengthened the martyrs in the contest. From everlasting to everlasting. May the prayer of our father, who was a pure offering to his Lord. Be unto us. A wall by night and day. And let all the people say Amen and Amen. Let not, O my Lord, the prayer of thy servants be in vain. But for propitiation. And forgiveness of sins.* I entered into thy house, and worshipped before thy judgment seat. O merciful Lord. Forgive me my trespasses and sins.* This house is a type of heaven. In love without guile. Let us enter into it continually.

Friday Morning.

36 I will alway bless the Lord. Blessed is the hidden power which dwelt in the bones of the martyrs. For they are laid in their graves. And drive away devils from the world. By their teaching they brought to nought all the error of carved (idols). And they secretly visit creation, and teach (men) to worship thee. For thou art Lord alone. And his praises are ever in my mouth. Blessed is Christ, who clothed his Twelve with strong armour. And they went forth to the four quarters (of the earth). And preached in the world his doctrine. And they destroyed the power of the enemy by the sword of the Spirit. And turned the nations from error. To the truth of their faith. Great is our Lord, and exceeding glorious. Great is the truth of the holy martyrs, which is preached in all regions. Whom neither fire nor sword. Nor the wrath of the heathen king. Nor any other thing did move nor terrify. For God alone did they confess. And despised all tortures.

37 Faithful is the Lord in his words. The just martyrs, who conquered and overcame, meditated on the faith. For they knew that that word was true. Which our Lord spake. Every one that confesseth me before judges and rulers. I will cause to inherit the kingdom on high, which is in heaven. And I will confess him before the Father. Look to him and trust in him. With the eye of the Spirit, the sons of the right hand looked, and verily saw. The country which is above. Within the veil of the Holy of Holies. And they desired it, and ran towards it by the way of the tortures of their persecutors. And, as by a bridge, they crossed the sea of the world by the cross. To Eden, which is their dwelling. Stretch forth thy right hand upon me. May the right hand of our Lord, which calleth all to the kingdom, bless our assembly. That we may keep vigil on the memorial of the martyrs. And that we also may be helped by their prayers. That they may be to our race a high wall in the last day. When the heights and the depths are amazed. And the will of the Creator shall reign.

38 The camp of the angels of the Lord. My mind wondered at the blessed company of athletes, the famous martyrs. How they despised and scorned. This world and its desires. In the glorious brightness of the pearl which is at the head of the cross. With piercing eye they looked and saw it. And desired to seize it. And your prayers be on all of us. By your prayers give help to the needy, O famous martyrs. For ye have filled the earth. With the good seed of your victories. And ye have dug up the thorn-bush which the Evil one sowed with his tares. And ye sowed therein good seed. O athletes, workers of truth. How good and beautiful. The athletes saw a pearl without flaw on the top of Golgotha. And desired earnestly to attain to it. And bought it with their own blood. And they endured sufferings and dire tortures for it. And lo, the reward of their labours is laid up (for them). Joy without end.

39 High in all the earth. High and exalted is the glorious and honoured bridechamber which Christ the King. Hath prepared for his athletes. Who loved him, and believed and confessed his Name. And lo, their festivals are celebrated in the four quarters (of the earth). While they cry to him with the voice of Hallelujahs, and say. Blessed is he who hath exalted his saints. He set my feet upon the rock, and ordered my goings. On the foundation of the truth of Simon Peter. Built the true Diodorus and Theodorus. With Nestorius and great Ephraim. And Mar Nersai and Mar Bar-Soma, a blessed pair. With Abraham and Job and John. And Michael, heirs of the Church. That it never should move at any time. On the foundation of the truth of Mar Antony the saints built. Mar Saurishu, and Mar Khnanishu, and Mar John, son of the Seers. And Maran-'amih of Zin, and Mar Shuwkha-l'maran, peace be to him. And Raban Pransi, and Mar Joseph, and Mar Abraham. And Mar Qnuwaya, and Ishu-sauran, and Raban Hurmizd. May their prayer be a wall to us.

40 Blessed are those that are blameless in the way. On the foundation of the twelve and the seventy apostles the noble ones built. Mar Augin and Mar Shalita. And Mar Kudhahwai, with Mar Babai. And the pious Mar James of Suwa. And Mar Abraham, and Mar Akha, and Mar John. May their prayer be a wall to us. And walk in the law of the Lord. They walked in the footsteps and imitated the deeds. Of those proved ones. Mar Andrew, and Mar Ulugh, and Mar John the Arab. And Raban Salara and his mother, with Mar Micah. And Awa-Yazdadh and Mar Yarith. May their prayer keep our assembly. For it was founded upon a rock. On the foundation of the truth of Mar Antony built the saints and fathers. Raban Hurmizd and Mar Abraham. And Raban Simon, and Mar Jozadak, and Mar Aduna, and Ishu-sauran, and Mar John. And Raban Joseph, and Shuwkha-l'ishu and Shuwkha-l'maran. And Mar Gabriel, and Jonah, and Joshua, and Sagi-nuhra. May their prayer be a wall to us.

41 I will alway bless the Lord. Blessed is Christ who strengthened the martyr Mar Cyriac in his contest. To stand against the persecutor. And he waxed strong and conquered the kings who contended with him. And by the strength of the Spirit he did valiantly. And endured stripes, and became a sacrifice for his Lord. And received the crown of victory. Rejoice, sing and glorify. With rejoicing the famous martyr Mar George gave up his soul to all afflictions. For he heard Paul saying. That the sufferings of this time are not to be compared. To that glory which the just inherit at the last day. And he who here laboureth and doeth nobly. Even he shall be an inheritor of it. The virgins that be her fellows shall they lead after her. O Virgin of the ages, Mary the blessed mother, beseech thy Son. To cause his peace to dwell in this temple. In which the day of thy memorial is celebrated with processions. And to cause the right hand of his mercies to overshadow it as the house of Abram. That all who are afflicted and distressed. From him may receive help.

42 Glory be, etc. Glory to thee, O good and kind Lord. By whose power the true ones conquered. And by whose help they despised the threats of their persecutors. And destroyed the power of the enemy who boasted. For he saw that the martyrs relaxed not their hold. On their true and confident hope. From everlasting to everlasting. May the prayer of our famous father, who from his childhood, like Samuel, pleased God. And in humility was like Moses, the firstborn of prophecy. In zeal like Elijah. In love of his Lord like Abraham. Be a wall to us. From the wiles of the Crafty one. And let all the people say Amen and Amen. We offer praise to thy Godhead, O good Lord. For by thy lovingkindness thou dost keep thy worshippers from harm. And thou hast opened, O my Lord, thy door. To them that repent and ask for mercy. And thou stayest not the great treasure of thy gift. From thy flock, O thou who art worshipped by all.

Saturday Morning.

43 My voice*shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord. In the morning the martyrs were called to be killed. And the right hand of our Lord weaveth their crowns. And in the morning will I be ready and will appear before thee. In the morning the martyrs run to the contest. To receive a double reward of their labours. O make me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning. In the morning our Lord called to the martyrs. Come, take the reward, noble workmen. Look to him and trust in him. In the morning the martyrs saw the Holy Ghost. Weaving crowns and placing (them) on their heads. Unto the godly hath shone forth light in the darkness. In the morning the martyrs shine forth like the sun. And go forth to meet the heavenly Bridegroom. Holy and reverend is his Name. In the morning the martyrs cry with the watchful ones. Holy, Holy, Holy, God.

44 They shall bring him offerings. In the morning the martyrs make offerings. The prayer of their mouth and the blood of their necks. The offering of my hands as the evening offering. In the morning the martyrs offer censers in their hands. And offerings to the King of kings. As the fragrance of sweet incense, and an acceptable savour before God. In the morning the martyrs set forth incense to him. Whose throne is in the fire, which is subject to him. Be strong, and your heart shall be established. In the morning the martyrs encourage one another. Come, let us think scorn of the impious king. He reproved kings for their sakes. In the morning the martyrs stood in the judgment-hall. And re-proved kings, and confounded the impious men. In the sight of all the people. In the morning the martyrs cry in the judgment-hall. We will not deny the heavenly Bridegroom.

45 For thy sake have we been killed daily. Ye who were killed like me, and persecuted for my sake. I and you (go) to Jerusalem that is above. And have been counted as sheep appointed to be slain. The Ib. martyrs (went) to death and their Lord to the cross. And the Holy Ghost weaveth their crowns. From the beginning hath thy seat been prepared. The throne is prepared and the King's Son sitteth. And the martyrs enter and receive their crowns. Both small and great. In the morning the martyrs run to the cross. To drink the wine pressed out by the spear. The Lord shall give strength unto his people. Grant the strength which strengthened the martyrs in the contest. To the assembly of thy worshippers, O our Lord. Grant the Ps. xxix. 10. Open me the gates of righteousness. In the morning the King's Son openeth his treasure. And the martyrs enter in and receive their crowns. Ps. cxviii. 19.

46 That I may go into them and give thanks unto the Lord. In the morning our Lord opened Paradise. And the Robber went in and inherited the kingdom. Ib. When God ariseth to judgment. In the morning our Lord ariseth in the judgment. And calleth to the martyrs, Come, take your crowns. Ps. lxxvi. 9. O sing unto him a new song of praise. In the morning the martyrs lift up a song of praise. To Christ the King, the Peace of all created beings. Ps. xxxiii. 3. How good and beautiful. How fitting is it for the boy Cyriac. When (God) reproveth for him the impious king. Ps. cxxxiii. 1. And a joyful mother of children. In the morning Shmuni encourageth her sons. Fear not him who killeth men. Ps. cxiii. 8. O well is thee, and a blessing to thy soul. O well is thy spirit, O martyr George. Which with the angels dwelleth in heaven. Ps. cxxviii. 2.

47 Let the mount Sion rejoice, and the daughters of Judah be glad. Let the faithful Church rejoice and exult. In the memorial of Mary, the mother of Christ. Ps. xlviii. 10. Glory be, etc. Peace to the martyrs, and glory to their Lord. And to us, by their prayer, mercy and compassion. From everlasting to everlasting. O our illustrious father, the friend of Christ. Beg of thy Lord mercy for us all. And let all the people say Amen and Amen. In the morning let us praise, and in the morning let us glorify. The Lord of the morning, the true light.* Ps. cvi. 46. In the morning let the prayer of thy worshippers enter. Before thy judgment-seat, O merciful Lord.* At morning time let us praise thy lovingkindness. For thou hast ordered the light for the joy of creation.

Motwa at Night Service for Wednesday 'Before'

48 Kings of the earth and all peoples. All nations call blessed. Ps. cxlviii. 11. The Virgin Mary, Mother of Christ. Ps. cxxxix. 3, 4. All things behind and before. All nations, etc. O well is thee, and a blessing to thy soul. O well is thee, John, for ever well is thee. When thy Lord cometh, whom thou didst love and serve. Let the righteous be strengthened with honour. Preachers of the Spirit and pillars of light. Were Peter and Paul in creation. Their gospel is gone out into all the earth. Matthew and Mark and Luke and John. May your prayer be a wall to our souls. And also I will make him the firstborn. Blessed is the death of the firstborn of the martyrs. Stephen, the friend of Christ. He shall stand before God for ever. Let us diligently celebrate the memorial of the teachers. Who loved Christ and kept his commandments.

49 As he commanded our forefathers. Let us commemorate the victories of our spiritual fathers. Who laboured for us by the love of Christ. Thy memorial throughout all generations. Thy memorial, O our father, is on the holy altar. With the saints who conquered and the martyrs who were crowned. Both small and great. Lo, all the departed have lain down in thy hope. That in thy glorious resurrection thou mayest raise them in glory. Ps. cxv. 13. Pour out your hearts before him. By fasting and prayer and repentance of the soul. Let us propitiate Christ, and his Father, and his Spirit. Ps. lxii. 8. I will alway bless the Lord. Blessed is Christ who condemned Satan. And made our nature to conquer by his holy fast. Ps. xxxiv. 1. Look to him and trust in him. With the eye of the Spirit the children looked to thee. When thou wast entering, and they sang praise. Ps. xxxiv. 5.

50 Rejoice and sing and give thanks. Thy Passover, O our Saviour, hath gladdened creation. And brought to nought the altars (of the heathen), and set firm the Churches. Ps. xcviii. 5. The earth trembled and was moved. The earth was moved when they cried. Crucify, Crucify the King of the Jews. Ps. lxxvii. 18. The joy of the whole earth. In the resurrection of the Son created things rejoice. For reconciliation hath been made, and quickening hath reigned. Ps. xlviii. 2. Seek the Lord and be strengthened. O martyrs, seek for mercy for the world, which taketh. Refuge in the power of your bones. Ps. cv. 4. He asked life of thee, and thou gavest him. Ask for us of thy Lord, O martyr George. Compassion and mercies, and forgiveness of trespasses. Ps. xxi. 4. God is gone up in glory, the Lord with the sound of the trump. Blessed is the King who hath gone up, and by his ascension hath made glad. The watchful ones and men, and hath made created things to rejoice.

51 And blessed be the name of his majesty for ever. Blessed is the descent of the Spirit, which made wise his apostles. And gave them victory in the four quarters (of the world). And our heart shall rejoice in him. May thy cross, O our Saviour, be to us a weapon. And by it may we conquer the Evil one and all his wiles. With words of praises. Lo, the Church thundereth forth with holy voices. And in her they raise glory to the Lord of created beings.

Verses of Prayer.

52 Make me a clean heart, O God. Grant us, O Christ, that with a clean heart. And with good deeds, we may fulfil thy will. All the days of my life. Grant us, O Christ, that with openness of face. We may go to meet thee when thou art revealed in the day of thy coming. For with him there is mercy. At thy hands, O God, whose mercies are many. Let our correction be, and not at the hands of man. Stretch forth thy right hand upon me. O our Lord, with thy right hand overthrow Satan. Who maketh (men) drunken without wine, and causeth them to slip without mud. Keep me as the apple of an eye. O our Lord, keep us who are as lambs. Among serpents that are worse than wolves. Let thy mercy come unto me, O Lord, even thy salvation, according to thy word. Let thy mercies come to help us, for they have created us. And let them heal our sickness with the medicine of thy compassion.

53 I have called unto thee with my whole heart, O Lord; answer me, and I will keep thy commandments. To thee we call, O Christ our Saviour. Have mercy on our life, and neglect us not. Ps. cxix. 145 (?). O come, let us kneel and worship him. We will confess and worship thee, O Christ our Saviour. For thy door is open to all who turn to thee in penitence. Ps. xcv. 6. Thou that liftest me up from the gates of death. O Christ, who didst raise us when we fell, and didst cause us to stand. Rebuke the Evil one, who disturbeth our dwelling. Ps. ix. 13 (?). Hide not thy face from us. O Christ, who neglectest not any who cry to thee. In thy mercy reject not the request of thy worshippers. Ps. xliv. 24 (?). The Lord of hosts is with us. Our King is with us, and our God is with us. And our helper is the God of Jacob. Ps. xlvi. 7.

54 Thou art merciful, O Lord, and righteous. With the publican we ask mercy. Have compassion on us, O God, and have mercy upon us. Ps. cxvi. 5. Thy mercy, O Lord, is for ever. We ask mercy and compassion of thee. Keep (them) not from us, thou Friend of men. Ps. cxxxviii. 8. Thee, O God, beseemeth praise in Sion. Thee alone beseemeth praise. O God, who governest the worlds by thy will. Ps. lxv. 1. Blessed are the people that are in such a case. Blessed are the people that are in such a case. Blessed are the people who have the Lord for their God. Ps. cxliv. 15. The Lord will abide in it for ever. Bless and keep our assembly, O our Lord. And make thy peace and tranquillity to dwell in it. Ps. lxviii. 16. The Lord preserveth all them that fear him. Keep, O our Lord, the assembly of thy worshippers. From the wiles of the Evil one, the Enemy.

55 It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves. Let us at all times confess the Being who hath made us. Whose lovingkindness our race cannot repay. Out of the mouth of young men and children. Glory to the Ps. viii. 2. Father, and confession to the Son. And worship and exaltation to the Holy Ghost. 56 Glory be, etc. By the prayer of the Blessed one. May peace reign in creation. And by the request of the Virgin. May the children of the Church be kept. May the Power which descended from on high. And so hallowed and adorned her for his honour. That she brought forth the true light. And hope and life of (all) created things. Be with us and amongst us. All the days of our life. And heal the sick and infirm. And those who have fallen into temptations. And bring back those who are (absent). On distant journeys. In peace to their homes. That they be not harmed by the Evil one. And may those who travel by sea. Be rescued from the billows. And those who go on dry land. Be delivered from barbarians. And may those who have been taken captive. Be released from their bonds. And those who have been taken by force. Be comforted in their sorrow by thy compassion. And if any are tormented by the Evil one. May thy great power rebuke him. And if any go on in sins. Pardon and forgive their trespasses. And if any have made offerings. May thy Godhead be pleased with them. And them that have lain down in thy hope. Quicken and bring to life in thy lovingkindness. And may we who have taken refuge. In the prayer of the Blessed one. Mary the holy Virgin. Mother of Jesus our Saviour. Be kept by it from the Evil one. And overcome all his wiles. And in that great day of searching. When the dead rise from the graves. When the good are separated from the wicked. May we be worthy with her to have joy. In the bridechamber of the kingdom on high. And to sing a triple song of glory. To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

57 From everlasting to everlasting. The divisions and orders of the spiritual ones. With the priests in the Church, are singing praise. For a memorial of the holy martyr. Mar George, who did brave deeds and conquered, and was crowned. And he suffered troubles and afflictions. Fire and the sword and stoning. The persecutors inflicted on him. Many and various torments. He put the wicked king to shame. Who persecuted the good servants. And despised the excellency of his power. And the gods which he worshipped. Zeus and Apollo and Artemis. The work of men's hands. And the giant of strength, Mar George, cried. And said to the nobles of the king. Ye shall not worship idols. Carved and wrought by artificers. For lo, Christ is the King of kings. And Lord of all gods. He giveth an inheritance to all that fear him. A bridechamber, and a blessing that passeth not away. And he clotheth with glory in his kingdom. The illustrious martyrs who have believed in him.* And kneeling in prayer before his Lord, he besought and made request, saying. Take away in thy lovingkindness. From all who keep the commemoration. Of this day of my persecution. Hail and famine and pestilence. And locust and young locust and caterpillar. And the blast that destroyeth the fields. And the terror of the night. And pains and diseases and afflictions. And all evil confusions. And keep all the inhabited world. By the great power of thy Godhead.

58 And let all the people say Amen and Amen. Among the companies clothed with light. And the bands of angels. The bridechamber is kept for thee in heaven. At the right hand of the King, Christ our Saviour. O our famous and holy father. Mar Awa Catholicos. Who didst work a work of righteousness. In the Church, the spouse of Christ. And didst love fast and prayer. And perfect and true love. And lo, from the place where Ps. cvi. 46. thy illustrious body is laid up. Well forth helps. And healing to all that are afflicted. And take refuge in thy prayers.* Great is the power by which thou didst conquer the devil. And which brought thee to the land that is full of good things. And now beseech for us all. That with thee we may sing in the kingdom. A new praise which ceaseth not. To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

59 For ever and ever. May he who blessed just Abram. And delivered Isaak, be with us and among us. Ps. xlviii. 13. May God, who looked on pure Jacob. Bless our assembly with his right hand. May the Lord, who was with Joseph. Be the guardian of our ways. May the Mighty one, who looked on Moses. Accompany us at all times. May he who gave victory to Joshua, the son of Nun. Make his right hand to overshadow us. May he who shepherdeth all, and chose David. Keep us from the Evil one and his host. May the Lord, who enriched Solomon. Increase the wealth of our fields. May the Highest, who looked on Isaiah. Cause his peace to dwell among us. And may our prayers be accepted. As those of Elijah and Elisha. And may our request be heard. As that of righteous Daniel.* May Jesus, the Lord of the prophets. And the crown of the apostles. Keep us who have believed in his Name. From the Evil one and his hosts. May the glorious Trinity. Be with us for ever.

60 He gathered them out of all lands. From Cush, and Egypt, and Thebais. The saints went first and came forth. Mar Augin and Mar Shalita. Architects of the holy Church.* With the companies of famous old men. The blessed seventy and two. Just, pure, and virgins. Mighty in fame. Chosen vessels of honour. And desirable temples of purity. Havens of peace and tranquillity. And storehouses of love and concord. Overflowing springs of mercies. And blessed fountains of pity. Seas full of wisdom. Rivers of knowledge. Treasures of fast and of prayer. Famed abodes of the Holy Ghost. Likeness and type of the prophets. Image and picture of the apostles. Resemblance and effigy of the doctors. Substance and perfection of the priests. Illustrious among the fathers. Noble among the monks. Sons of the yoke of the famous martyrs. And sons of the band of the confessors. Sons of the camp of the anchorets. And sons of the number of the weepers.1 Adorable is the Father who chose them. And holy is the Son who gave them victory. Glorious is the Spirit who encouraged them. To persevere in his teaching. Bright is the light wherewith they are clothed. Excellent is the glory in which they have joy.* And strong, and firm, and established, and high. Is the high wall of their prayers. Which surroundeth the assemblies of their sons. Blessed is he in whose love the just are inebriated. Who have preached his truth in creation.

61 The mountain which God hath chosen to himself to dwell there. In the difficult mountain of Mirda, which is Izla. Which is more inaccessible and difficult and parched than all the mountains in the world. The Divine lovingkindness. Was pleased to make men of fire and spirit. Giants clothed with truth. And sons of the mighty among angels. First of all is. Mar Augin, of sweet report. His name beareth witness to his victories. Which, being interpreted, is The good man. And spiritual in truth. Who hastened his course thither. And the seventy-two blessed ones. Came with him from Egypt. And after no short time. Holy Mar Andrew. And Mar Ulugh, the renowned old man. And Mar John, the Arab. Of Khirta by race and family. And spiritual in truth. Who did wonderful miracles. And quickened a dead man by his prayer. And Mar Abraham of Kashkar. Fellow-countryman of great Abram. Far greater than can be expressed. Is the grace which dwelt in him. And Mar Babai, the disciple of the truth. Who walked in the true way. And was not slack, and was not moved. By the conflict with the power of the Evil one. And he endured heat and cold. From morning till evening. And Mar Kudahwi the illustrious. Who went rejoicing in the ranks (of the martyrs). And was lifted up on the wings of the Spirit. To the high and glorious country. And by them was fulfilled that which is written. That from the top of the mountains shall cry. And give praise to the Lord. All generations and tribes. Old men, young men, and children. Who come to their appointed habitations. That they may receive thence helps. That by their prayers we also. May be worthy with them to have joy.

62 The hope of all the ends of the earth. O Christ, the hope of thy true ones. Prophets, apostles, and martyrs, and priests and doctors. Keep our souls by their prayers. And grant us to walk in their paths. Bless, O my Lord, the holy Church wherein are laid up their bones. Bless and keep thy flock. Which was committed to their hands. Bless and keep thine inheritance. Which hath been gained by their labours. Bless and keep the faithful. Who celebrate their festivals with processions. Bless and keep the rich. Who honour their tombs. Bless and keep the poor. Who take refuge in their prayers. Bless and heal the infirm. Who take shelter under the wings of their bones. Bless and keep all who journey. On land or by sea. Bless and keep all conditions (of men). And sustain the weak by thy will. And heal the sick and infirm. And those who fall into temptations. Bless the crown of the fruits. And make peaceful the temperature of the air. And keep priests and kings. In love and faith.* Bless and keep and save and rescue. All who are afflicted and distressed. And take refuge in the prayer of thy friends. The prophets, apostles, and doctors. And martyrs and priests and monks. Bless and keep in thy lovingkindness. The assembly that celebrateth the day of their memorials with processions.

63 A. om. And. R. C. : good. A. om. That. R. C. : boys. How good and beautiful. Glorious is the day of the memorial. Of the illustrious and holy martyr Ps. cxxxiii. 1. Mar Pithiun, chosen of Christ. Who against error. Made his truth to shine forth, and gave up his soul for his Lord.* And in joy he endured. Terrible and bitter tortures. And was not moved by afflictions. And was not made slack by sufferings. But boldly rebuked. The madness of Adur-prazd'gard. Who, like a roaring wolf. Was madly desirous that he should be killed. And poured out his wrath without pity. On the two combatants. Adur-hurmizd and Anahidh. Sons of the teaching of the athlete.* And confidently Mar Pithiun answered. And said to the officers of the Magi. I am prepared for suffering. And desire to depart. Come near, O men, finish in deed. That which ye are commanded (to do). And he kissed the instruments of iron. By which they cut off his limbs. And he glorified and confessed Christ. That he was counted worthy to suffer for his name.* And in the end of his contest he begged of his Lord in his suffering, and said. Whosoever calleth on thy Name. And taketh refuge in the prayer of thy servant. Hear, O my Lord, the voice of his prayer. And in thy mercies accept his request. And return answer to his petitions. And make us all worthy in thy compassion. To be heirs of thy kingdom.

64 [Another, composed by Mar Shimun (Simon), Metropolitan of the city of Amidh.] 65 And their prayers be on all of us. In the chain of the mountains of the Kurds. Went forth the saints—may their prayer be a wall to us. In the mind of these victorious ones our Lord poured forth his grace.* First, Mar Saurishu. Whose habitation was in the road of the Zab. He brake the yoke of evil demons. And showed his noble deeds in the world. He wrought a spiritual work. And made a bridge to the (country) on high.* And Raban Hurmizd of Persia. In the realm of Assyria. Wrought a quiet work. And departed and went to heaven. Raban Joseph the Seer. Whose monastery is in the Kurdish mountain. Saw exalted revelations. Above the nature of man. And the great habitation near thereby. Called Kmul, the fountain of love. Hath the fame of the Paradise of Eden. Thus history relateth. Mar Isaak, glorious among teachers. Made for the monks six books. Showing them the ascents. To heaven amongst the just. And John the Egyptian. Whose habitation is Tur, called the Upper. Who raised a dead man at Nicæa. He and Mar James of Nisibis. And Mar Akha in the above-named mountain, drank no water. For the space of seven years together. He remained in this subjection. And an angel suddenly raised him up. To heaven before the Creator. The Lord gave him ordination. And he received in one moment the degree. Mar Guria on the top of the mountain. Endured heat and cold. May his prayer be a wall to us. Against Satan the enemy. And Mar James, who against Martas. Offered prayers. To God with praises. He is the beloved one, who flew and was wafted away.* May the prayers of these saints keep from evil demons. The faithful in every country. And men, wheresoever they dwell. Glory to the Power who gave them victory. And on us be his mercies by their prayers.

Motwa at Night Service for Wednesday 'After'

66 To the tune Lord of all. For he is thy Lord, worship thou him. Mary the Holy Virgin. Ps. xlv. 12. Beseech and beg of Christ. That he have mercy on the world. Which taketh refuge in thy prayer. And let the Church rejoice in thy festival. And let her children within her. Be kept from harm and the opposition. Of the devil, the apostate. Seek of him, and beseech him that he have pity on us. Mary the holy, etc. He hath dispersed abroad and given to the poor. Open the treasure which thy Lord hath given thee. O John the preacher. And give help to the needy. Ps. cxii. 9. Who take refuge in thee, and call on thy name. To him that is sick give healing. To him that is distressed be a comfort. And whomsoever the Evil one vexeth. May thy prayer be a wall to him.

67 He set my feet upon the rock, and ordered my goings. The apostles, who are a stone that moveth not. Built a building that is not destroyed. By the power which they received from their Lord. They rooted out heathenism, and built up the Church. Hail, disciples of the truth. Who completed and raised up your building. And adorned (and) built temples of the Spirit. In the souls of the faithful. Seek the Lord and be strengthened. O chosen and holy Apostles. Pray and seek of the Lord. That there may be peace in creation. And that wars and contentions may cease. May there be concord among priests. And may agreement be multiplied among kings. And in the four quarters of the world. (May there be) great peace and tranquillity. Ps. cv. 4. Offer to him sacrifices of praise. Chosen Stephen offered up. His body and soul with alacrity. For he saw his Lord bound. Before the judge who should beat him. And he also offered as a sacrifice. His body to death by stoning. And received the crown of victory. And was the firstborn of martyrdom. Ps. cvii. 22.

68 Thee, O Lord, beseemeth praise in Sion. Praise to thee, O our Saviour. For by thy strength victory was given. To the three wonderful men. Pure Ps. lxv. 1. temples of the Holy Ghost. Diodorus, who laboured in argument. And illustrious Theodorus. And holy Nestorius. May their prayer be a wall to us. And a joyful mother of children. In the memorial of the priests, lo, the Church. Glorious and holy, rejoiceth. For they stood up in her as pillars. That there might be teachers from amongst her sons. In every age their teaching conquereth. And their true faith. For that they reproved kings, and were not overcome. By the threats of their wickedness. Thy memorial throughout all generations. O our father, who didst conquer in the contest. Lo, thy recompense is in heaven. Christ, for whom thou didst adorn thyself. Hath exalted thy memorial in his Church. Thy love was a pure censer. And thou didst propitiate thy Lord by thy labours. Beseech with us, that when he is revealed. In great glory, he have mercy upon us.

69 Unto thee shall all flesh come. Unto thee, O my Lord, shall all flesh come. Who gavest forgiveness of trespasses to all. With thy hyssop may the bodies. Which sin hath defiled be made white. Come, mortals, bearing burdens. Lay down the weight of your trespasses. And take from the altar for your pardon. The coal which pardoned the prophet. And thou saidst, Repent, ye children of men. At the preaching of the prophet. Nineveh was saved by fasting. And by intercession and prayer. He stayed the angel of death from it. In suffering and tears of repentance. Let us take refuge in the temple. And call for mercy to help us. Until the light fade. Out of the mouth of young men and boys. (They gave) praise to thee, O our Saviour. When thou wast entering Jerusalem. And boys with olive branches. Sang glory before thee, saying. Hosanna to thee in the highest. Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is thy coming unto us. In the power and glory of thy angels.

70 He who did eat my bread, in whom I trusted, hath greatly deceived me. Our Saviour broke bread. And gave it to the disciple of guile. And Satan entered into him. And he became a useless vessel. And changed not his mind. But let deceit pass within him. He became a stranger to his calling. And was not helped by his blessing. The Lord declared his salvation. Our Lord set forth himself. And showed how hard was his suffering. And he kept vigil and laboured, that if it were possible. That hour might pass from him. Awake and pray ye, he warned us. That ye enter not into temptation. Our Lord bore witness that suffering is hard. For his sweat was changed to blood. It is become the head of the building. Thy resurrection, O our Lord, was life. To the race of men which was destroyed. For they have risen, and have been quickened and gained life. By the great power of the cross. And they rejected and threw down heathenism. And all the error of idols. And they knelt and worshipped the one Being. Who by his living Son saved the world.

71 For thy sake have we been killed daily. Ye who were killed, and loved your Creator. And received death of your own free will. And were propitiatory sacrifices. To Christ the King, who crowned you. Offer with us a request. That in the great day of searching. We may be rescued from torment. And inherit life without end. Gird thee with the sword upon thy thigh, O thou most Mighty. A giant of strength was St. George. Who despised death and the sword. And bitter maimings. And stripes of all kinds. And wrought miracles and wonders. And turned all men to the truth. Blessed is he who gave victory to the athletes. By whose power we will conquer error. He shall save the children of the poor. The Word of the Ps. lxxii. 4. Father in his love was pleased. To save our race which was destroyed. He took of us the likeness of a servant. And ascended and sat on the right hand. Glorify (him) now, ye mortals. For lo, the Son of our race is in heaven. Praised with processions of the exalted ones. Cherubim, Seraphim, and Angels.

72 Glorify the Lord with a new song. It was a new wonder that was wrought. By the apostles in the temple of Jerusalem. When in the name of Jesus they made to walk. Him that was lame from his mother's womb. And the crowds of the Crucifiers marvelled. To see the greatness of the wonderful deed. That in the Name of Jesus whom they had crucified. The lame man was made to walk. His lightnings lightened the world. The cross of light which was shown. To Constantine in heaven. Like a Ps lxxvii 18. mighty one of the Virtues went. At the head of the camp to war. And (then) were moved and astonished, the companies. Of the heathen who worship created things. And they left off the error of heathenism. And venerated and honoured the cross. The king's daughter stood in glory. O Church, the spouse of Christ. Who saved thee with his blood from error. And promised thee by his resurrection. Life and good things which are not destroyed. Adorn thyself with alacrity. And pay thanksgiving. Confessing without doubt. The true faith.

73 With the pleasure of the victory of thy right hand. From thy treasury, O Lord of all. May the petitions of thy servants be answered. For thou art their helper. And in thee is placed their confident hope. Keep them in thy compassion. And aid them in thy loving-kindness. And give them a helping hand. That they may lift up (a song of) praise to thee. The eyes of all hang on thee. On thee, O Christ our Saviour. Lo, the eyes of the distressed hang. And heal thou the pains and sicknesses. Of those who have fallen into temptations. As thou didst promise in thy Gospel. Which is full of life and joys. Whoso diligently knocketh. At the door of my majesty, it is opened to him. Thou art merciful, O Lord, and righteous. Thou art compassionate from everlasting. And merciful for all generations. How great is the iniquity of creation. In the overflowing mercies of thy lovingkindness. Sprinkle the face of our nature. With the dew of mercy and pity. And rescue us from the hand of the Evil one. And from the tares, the sons of error.

74 A great King above all gods. O King of kings, our helper. Thou art Christ our Saviour. Pity thy servants who call to thee. In these times of affliction. For lo, sorrows surround us. And terrors on all sides. Let thy mercies quickly prevent us. And make thy face to shine and save us. He sitteth upon the cherubims, let the earth be moved. O thou that sittest on the right hand of the Father. With thy right hand bless our assembly. And with the arm of thy might. Keep them that are bought with thy blood. Let thy light drive out from thy Church. The darkness of ignorance. And with the just who were approved before thee. Make us worthy to inherit the kingdom. The Lord shall give his people the blessing of peace. Bless our assembly, O our Saviour. And make thy grace to dwell in it. And give us strength to glorify thee. The assemblies of them that are above with them that are below. And (grant) us all to love one another. And obtain love and concord. Even as the Spiritual ones obtained. The one wish, to be approved by thee.

75 We that are thy people and sheep of thy pasture. Keep, O our Lord, in thy compassion. The great assembly of thy flock. That the devil be not puffed up and attack it. As of old time. Send thy power from on high. And let it be a wall to our camp. And let it stand before us, that we be not harmed. And may the sheep of thy pasture be kept safe. Great is the power of prayer which a righteous man prayeth. St. James v. 16. Great is the power of prayer. To which love and peace are joined. And it wipeth out a multitude of sins. (And) bringeth (us) to the knowledge of the Lord. And giveth a reward and recompense. And openness of face to the faithful. In the great day of searching. When the good are separated from the evil. O let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee. Prayer is the key of creation. It openeth the door of the kingdom. And giveth a reward and recompense.

76 Ps. lxxix. 12 From the treasury which enricheth all. By it, O my Lord, let thy grace open. The door of thy gift to the needy. And pour forth thy mercies on thy servants. Who take refuge in thee and call on thy Name. Thus he speaketh in visions with his saints. Thou spakest by the prophets. O Lord of the prophets and apostles. I desire not your deaths. O sinners, turn from your iniquity. Return answer to our petitions, and grant to us. Restoration of our bodies and souls. Seasons bearing joy. Dividing benefits and gifts. In the evening and morning, and at noonday. To work in the spiritual vineyard. Hast thou called us, O our Lord, in thy lovingkindness. Grant us to fulfil thy will. In perfecting the fruits of thy commandments. For thou art the true vine. And thy Father is the vine-dresser. And we all are the branches. Receive the fruits of our lips.

77 Show thy servant the light of thy countenance, and save me in thy lovingkindness. Show unto our souls, O Father. The light of the brightness of thy Only-begotten. Ps. xxxi. 18. And let our minds ever be illuminated. By the beams of thy lovingkindness. And let the fire of thy love burn in us. And be kindled thereby at all times. And without ceasing let us raise to thee. Glory, O Being who art Lord of all. I have gone astray like a sheep that is lost; O seek thy servant. From the number of the hundred of thy flock. O good and true shepherd. I alone have gone astray. And by my wickednesses I have provoked thee. O my Lord, neglect not my request. For thou alone hast compassion on all. But seek me in thy compassion. And forgive my trespasses in thy loving-kindness. Holy and reverend is his name. O our Lord, thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth. As it is in

78 heaven. Among the Spiritual ones who serve thee. Give us the bread of our need. And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from the Evil one. For thine is the kingdom. He sitteth on high and beholdeth the depth. O thou that sittest on the right hand of the Father. With thy right hand bless our assembly. And with thy mighty arm. Keep them that are bought with thy blood. Let thy light drive out from thy Church. The darkness of ignorance. With the just who were approved before thee. Make us worthy to inherit the kingdom. Rescue me and preserve me from this generation for ever. O our Lord, rescue thy worshippers. From evil (men) and enemies. And from cruel devils and demons. And from evil thoughts. And from sinful deeds. And from devastation, and captivity, and robbery. And from pains and sicknesses. And from the searching of thy just judgment.

79 Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us. By the request of the just. And the prayer of the prophets. And the intercession of the apostles. And the beseeching of the martyrs, O Lord, and the entreating. Of all the holy Church. Now have mercy upon us. And at that day lead us not into judgment. Let my prayer be in thy sight as the incense. As the censer which Aaron offered. May the savour of our assembly be pleasing to thee. And as the request of the Ninevites. Receive, O my Lord, the prayer of thy servants. And as thou didst answer Daniel. From the den of lions. Answer, O my Lord, and help thy worshippers. In these times of affliction. And praise thy name for ever. Glory to thy mercies, O Ps. lxvi. 3 (?). Lord of all. Glory to thy will, O Almighty. Glory to thee from those on high. Glory to thee from those below. Visit the sick with thy compassion. And accept the request of thy worshippers. That their heart may rejoice in thy salvation. And that they may ever say, Glory to thee.

80 For thy loving mercy and for thy truth sake. Glory to thy mercies, which have become to us. A road to the door of thy kingdom. Christ, our anointing oil. The free medicine, hath been sent. Come forth at our request, Rabboni. According to thy true promise. The sick need this. Not the true sons of thy mysteries. Open me the gates of righteousness. Thou art compassionate and full of mercies. Open thy treasury to the needy. And return answer to the petitions of thy worshippers. Who call on thy holy Name. And may we be aided by thy lovingkindness. To perfect all thy commandments. For thou art a sea of compassion. And forgivest the trespasses of mortals. Heal me, O Lord, for my bones are vexed. O Christ, the true Healer. Heal our vices in thy compassion. And cleanse and purify our defilements. With the medicine of thy kind will. For we have sinned and done foolishly, and moved thee to anger. And we are not worthy of thy compassion. With thy hyssop may we be made white. And worthy of an answer to our petitions.

81 At all seasons and times. In suffering and tears we beseech (thee). O good and kind Lord. Open thy treasury to the needy. Who knock at the door of thy majesty. And give peace to the world by thy will. And bring to nought all contentions therein. And by thy commandment let wars cease. Which disturb creation. He that is before the worlds. O Being who art from everlasting, and neglectest not. Sinners who call on thee. Make thy peace to dwell in creation. And thy tranquillity in the holy Church. And may priests and kings be bound together. By perfect love and concord. That we, a quiet and peaceful habitation. May dwell in purity of life. FOR A JOURNEY. Arise and help us, and deliver us, for thy mercy's sake. O Lord, who wast with Jacob. And didst protect his life from Esau. Be with thy servants, O Compassionate one. In the journey that is set before them. And keep them without harm. From the wickedness of the Crafty ones. And bring them back in peace. And let thy power accompany them and be with them.

82 FOR RAIN. Hear my voice, O God, when I beseech thee. Hear, O my Lord, the voice of the husbandmen. Who see the crops dried up. Send thy dew for their comfort. And wipe away the tears of their eyes. And as they have been humbled by correction. Let them now be encouraged by mercy. And may all conditions (of men) eat and be satisfied. And make offerings to thee. Hear, O God, and have mercy upon me. Lo, heaven and earth Pe. xxx. ii. weep. And pour forth tears of sorrow. For they see thy servants afflicted. And there is no helper to rescue (them). Awake, Lord, as one that sleepeth. And as in the times of old. And save and rescue thy worshippers. From the hands of the persecutors. Glory be, etc. By the prayer of the Blessed one. May peace reign in creation, etc. And the other verses as on Wednesday 'before' (page 134).