How to read the akathist correctly
Akathists are not obligatory to perform during the Divine Service. They can be read during the morning service, both on holidays and ordinary days. Only the singing of praise to the Mother of God has a clear connection to the date.
If desired, the akathist can be performed at home. The believer must have certain preparation, not only fully know the content of all 25 texts, but also know the rules of chanting.
A Christian must stand in front of icons. Candles or lamps are lit immediately and are not extinguished upon completion. It is advisable to start by reading the morning rule. Then, in front of the image of the Holy Trinity or Jesus Christ, verses are sung while standing. The last word is repeated three times.
The final, thirteenth kontakion is performed kneeling three times. Then Kodak 1 and Ikos 1 should be repeated. “Amen” is repeated three times.
After the singing of praise, while standing, the prayer “Lord, Lord, behold I stand…” or two prayers to the Holy Trinity, composed specifically for this ritual, are read.
Kontakion 1
Praising Jesus on behalf of the repentant sinner.
Ikos 1
Description of the miracle of returning speech and hearing to a deaf-mute.
Kontakion 2
The resurrection of the son of a widow crying and praying over the boy.
Ikos 2
A request for forgiveness of sins and strengthening of faith in the soul.
Kontakion 3
Philip asks Jesus to show him his Father. To which he receives the answer that the Son is in the Father, the father is in the Son, God is One.
Ikos 3
Describes Christ’s calling to Himself of sinners, infidels and publicans.
Kontakion 4
The salvation of drowning Peter by a helping hand extended from Heaven.
Ikos 4
An exclamation of mercy from the blind man to Jesus, the son of David.
Kontakion 5
The meeting and glorification of Jesus in human form by Jewish children.
Ikos 5
Kontakion 6
Ikos 6
Kontakion 7
Jesus is described as following meekly like a lamb to death, and then being resurrected as God and ascending into Heaven.
Ikos 7
The Savior appears to the apostles after His resurrection.
Kontakion 8
Ikos 8
Kontakion 9
Ikos 9
Kontakion 10
Ikos 10
A reminder of the miracle when the Savior cleansed 10 lepers in an instant and then healed the Publican Zacchaeus.
Kontakion 11
Ikos 11
Christ brought Paul to reason, who previously persecuted him and did not recognize God.
Kontakion 12
The Savior accepts Peter's sincere repentance and forgives his sins.
Ikos 12
Kontakion 13
It sings about accepting the sacrifice of a widow who gave her food.
