ODE VI.

John Damascene, 780

katelthes en tois katotatois.

Into the dim earth's lowest parts descending,

And bursting by Thy might the infernal chain

That bound the prisoners, Thou, at three days' ending,

As Jonah from the whale, hast risen again.

Thou brakest not the seal, Thy surety's token,

Arising from the Tomb Who left'st in Birth

The portals of Virginity unbroken,

Opening the gates of heaven to sons of earth.

Thou, Sacrifice ineffable and living,

Didst to the FATHER by Thyself atone

As GOD eternal: resurrection giving

To Adam, general parent, by Thine own.