Akathist: The Great Marian Hymn of the East

# The Akathist: The Great Marian Hymn of the East

## Introduction

The **Akathist** (from Greek, “not seated”) is the most significant Marian hymn in early Christian antiquity, likely composed between the 5th and 6th centuries. Its name indicates that it should be sung and listened to standing, like the Gospel, as a sign of reverence. For fifteen centuries, it nourished devotion to Theotokos (Mother of God) in the churches of Eastern Christianity.

## Name and Significance

The term *Akathist* originates from a liturgical rubric: this hymn was sung standing throughout the night, while other Byzantine liturgical compositions were heard while seated. The city of Constantinople, dedicated to Mary, performed it during vigil services of thanksgiving after repelling barbarian sieges, giving rise to its distinctive name. In the Byzantine rite, it has its own liturgical feast on the 5th Saturday of Lent and is partially sung in the four Saturdays preceding it.

## Structure of the Hymn

The Akathist consists of 24 stanzas following the Greek alphabet acrostic pattern. It is divided into two parts of 12 stanzas each: the first, historically oriented, accompanies the Gospel narratives of the Infancy (Annunciation, Nativity, Magi), while the second, theologically focused, contemplates the mysteries of faith. The odd-numbered stanzas, longer, conclude with 12 acclamations to the Virgin and the refrain “Hail, Virgin and Bride!”, whereas the even-numbered ones end with “Alleluia!”.

## Theology: Theotokos and Incarnation

At its core, the Akathist is a contemplation of the mystery of Incarnation through Mary. Its structure reflects the Trinitarian mystery and the two natures of Christ, as defined by the Councils of Nicaea and Ephesus. Mary emerges from the mystery of the Word she generated, illuminating her role as Theotokos (Mother of God). The hymn was entirely sung during the solemn celebration of the 1550th anniversary of the Council of Ephesus, presided over by Pope John Paul II at St. Mary Major Basilica in 1981.

## Ecumenical Value

Translated into all languages of the Byzantine rite, both in the Orthodox and Eastern Catholic traditions, the Akathist is increasingly recognized in the West. The Italian Catechism for Adults (1981) included two of its stanzas alongside “Salve Regina,” considering it a shared heritage of the Churches. For ecumenical dialogue, it represents a privileged point of convergence between East and West in contemplation of Theotokos.

## Further Study

Explore Mariology, Marian Theology, Marian Apparitions, and Marian Postgraduate Studies for an in-depth understanding of these topics.

## Church Magisterium

> **Citation:** *It is most just and right that we should praise and honor from the heart that Mother whom the Son of God chose for his mercy as his own Mother.*
> – Pope Benedict XIV, Apostolic Constitution *Gloriosae Dominae* (September 27, 1748)

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> **Citation:** *The Oriental Hymnography, whose pinnacle is the Akathist, is the greatest document of the Eastern theological sense regarding the Theotokos.*
> – Pope John Paul II, Encyclical *Redemptoris Mater* (March 25, 1987), n. 33

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