If a person wants to communicate with God, tell any Saint about what is going on in his soul, ask for help, or simply thank the Almighty Powers for always being there, then an akathist is the most necessary thing in such cases. The Akathist to John the Baptist (or John the Baptist) helps strengthen one’s faith in the Lord God and consoles even in the most inclement hour.
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The meaning of the Akathist to John the Baptist
The prayer to Saint John is considered one of the most powerful in the world of Christianity. Turning to the Baptist greatly strengthens a person’s faith in the Almighty, and in difficult moments, prayer can really calm. How does the akathist help John the Baptist? Usually, they stand before the icon of the Holy Face with prayers so that:
- ask for a good harvest;
- give a feeling of repentance;
- bring reason to those who have sinned;
- to introduce to the faith those who refuse to believe in the Lord God, who have not yet been baptized or are members of a sect;
- God gave a sign from above indicating the sins of man.
Meaning in Orthodoxy
John the Baptist was entrusted with a special mission - he became the Baptist of the Son of the Lord - Jesus Christ. The saint’s entire life was filled with patience and repentance, becoming an example to any Orthodox believer.
That is why the prophet occupies a special place in the hierarchy of saints; several revered days are dedicated to him: January 7, February 24, May 25, June 24, August 29, September 23, October 12. On these days, chants are performed dedicated to the saint.
An akathist dedicated to the holy prophet has powerful power. Appeal to John the Baptist:
- helps strengthen faith in the Almighty;
- heals body and soul;
- brings peace, tranquility;
- provides support in difficult moments;
- helps to find a way out of a difficult situation.
Most often, prayer chants honoring the Baptist are resorted to to obtain a good harvest. The church hymn is also read to support prisoners who have repented of their crimes. John the Baptist offers prayers to the Almighty for all believers who turn to him for help.
How to read the Akathist to John the Baptist?
Each akathist consists of 25 prayers: kontakia and ikos. There are no special rules, so you can turn to God at any time, whether you are in church or at home in front of an icon. But there is one thing: reading the akathist to John the Baptist during the period of Great Lent is not advisable.
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The remaining days of the year are completely permitted so that one can turn to the Baptist. It is also impossible to read the akathist in a different order; it is necessary to observe the sequence of each address. You must follow clear instructions, this is very important. As soon as all the songs of praise to Saint John have been read, you must end your conversation with the Almighty powers with a prayer to the Saint, to whom the akathist was directed. They say that the akathist to John the Baptist is read even in cases when a believer experiences severe headaches - many pray to the Baptist of the Lord in such situations.
A little from the life of St. John
John the Baptist was a long-awaited son who was born a little earlier than Jesus Christ. The Lord gave the parents such a pure and bright child for a reason; he entrusted him with the special mission of a prophet. They called the Saint exactly that name because Archangel Gabriel himself said so when he appeared to the priest Zechariah right in the church.
Mother John is inextricably linked with the Virgin Mary, as she was her distant relative. Perhaps that is why the Baptist is considered one of the most powerful Saints - after all, he is a relative of Jesus Christ. John chose the righteous path, constantly talked with the Lord, went to the uninhabited Judean desert and wandered until he was 30 years old, praying to the Almighty every minute. John was waiting for God himself to allow him to do the most important thing - public service.
People knew that the Forerunner led a correct lifestyle and came to him to pray and confess all their sins. John warned one and all that very soon the One who would be a real salvation for people would appear - and this is Jesus Christ. The Baptist was called the “bright morning star,” a real prophet who foretold the coming of the Strong Man. It is John the Baptist who completes the history of the Old Testament and opens a new chapter - the New Testament. It was the Forerunner who baptized the Son of God Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.
Today the church celebrates several days of remembrance in honor of St. John: September 23 - the conception of John, June 24 - the birth of the prophet, August 29 - the beheading of John the Baptist, February 24 - the first and second discovery of the head, October 12 - the transfer of the right hand to Gatchina.
The history of the appearance of the akathist
John the Baptist was a late child. The saint's parents (priest Zacharias and his wife Elizabeth) had no children for a long time. One day their prayers were heard by the Lord, which was announced to Zechariah by the Archangel Gabriel, commanding him to name his son John.
The Forerunner was born six months earlier than Christ. In addition, they were connected by family ties, since Elizabeth and the Virgin Mary were relatives. The newborn John became a chosen child, destined to perform miraculous works.
The Forerunner managed to escape death during the murder of children in Bethlehem. Until the age of 30, John lived in the desert, leading an ascetic lifestyle: he wore rough clothes, ate locusts and honey, fasted daily, and offered prayers to the Lord. Then he returned to Jerusalem to fulfill the Lord’s will - to announce to the people about the imminent appearance of the Messiah.
Arriving on the eve of a great holiday to the Jordan River, where many people had gathered to perform the sacrament of purification with water, Saint John addressed the Jewish people with a sermon. In it, he called people to moral purification prior to accepting the Gospel.
The purpose of John's baptism was to prepare for the future Baptism of water and the Holy Spirit. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, appeared here to John to receive baptism from the prophet. The baptism of Jesus showed that John's purpose was to serve the Lord as a prophet.
Many people began to come to the prophet, wanting to be baptized and repent of their sins. John considered all people equal, denouncing the vices of both the poor and the rich. He did not make an exception for the ruler Herod, who abandoned his wife and cohabited with his brother’s wife. For preaching against Herod, the saint was arrested and thrown into prison.
During the feast at the king's birthday, the daughter of his wife Salome greatly pleased Herod by dancing in front of him. The pleased king promised to fulfill any request of the girl. She asked for the head of the prophet as a reward.
Herod did not want to execute John, but he did not want to break his word. The servants cut off the Baptist's head and presented it to Salome. Mother and daughter, having mocked the saint’s head to their heart’s content, threw it into the latrine.
The prophet's disciples took his body and buried him in Sebastia. According to legend, while going around preaching in different villages, the Apostle Luke found the hand of John and transported it to Antioch. Later, the head of the Baptist was found and buried on the Mount of Olives, where several monasteries were then founded.
On July 19, 1872, the Holy Synod of the Russian Church decided to establish an akathist dedicated to John the Baptist, which describes the entire earthly life of the Baptist.
Text of the Akathist to John the Baptist
Kontakion 1.
Chosen from ancient times to be the Forerunner and Baptist of the Savior of the world, Christ God, John, the praising of God, glorifying the Lord who glorified you, let us sing praises to you, as he is greater than all born of women, in the flesh to the angel, repentance to the preacher; But you, because you have great boldness in the Lord, free us from all troubles and lift us up to repentance, calling to you love:
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Ikos 1.
Archangel Gabriel, standing before God, was quickly sent to Priest Zechariah, who, having served according to the order of his order, went out to worship the Church of the Lord; and, standing at the right hand of the altar of incense, the great John preached the good news of your birth, proclaiming joy and gladness to Zechariah, and how many would rejoice at your birth. For this reason, we, marveling and rejoicing at God’s marvelous favor for you, cry out with reverence in your praise:
Rejoice, Council of God, ineffable mystery; Rejoice, His fulfillment is marvelous to behold.
Rejoice, you who were revealed by the prophecy of Isaiah before many years; Rejoice, messenger before the face of the Lord, prophesied of old.
Rejoice, destined to be the great prophet of the Most High; Rejoice, born according to the promise of an Angel.
Rejoice, you were still in your mother’s womb filled with the Holy Spirit; Rejoice, before your Nativity you were sanctified for a great service.
Rejoice, permission for the infertility of parents; Rejoice, priest of God, joy and gladness.
Rejoice, daughter of Aaron's vegetation; Rejoice, God-given fruit of prayer.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 2.
Seeing Zechariah the Angel appearing to him, he was troubled, and was attacked by fear, and did not believe the words of his gospel about your Nativity; When, due to unbelief, he was bound by dumbness, marveling at the glorious miracle, he cried out to God with all his heart: Alleluia.
Ikos 2.
The uncomprehending mind understands the searching people, waiting for Zechariah, and wondering, waiting for him in the church; I went out to him and am not able to speak to them, but I will only anoint him, meaning everything, like a vision seen in the church. We, glorifying the wondrous Creator of miracles, God, cry out to you like this:
Rejoice, good culprit of the father’s silence; Rejoice, your mother’s tears have been transformed into joy.
Rejoice, for reproaches have been taken away from people; Rejoice, great consolation to those who gave birth to you.
Rejoice, for in the sixth month the Most Holy Virgin Mary in Nazareth heard from an Angel about your conception; Rejoice, for many rejoiced at your Christmas.
Rejoice, for you have received a name of grace, given by an Angel; Rejoice, for in your name the silence of your father Zechariah was resolved.
Rejoice, for the name of God was blessed by your father for you; Rejoice, for your wonderful Christmas brought fear and wonder to those living around you.
Rejoice, for throughout the entire country of Judea your wondrous Christmas will be announced; Rejoice, for through you you have brought salvation to many in this world.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 3.
The power of the Most High resolved the infertility of the righteous Elizabeth, who was exhausted in her days: for you were conceived, glorious Forerunner of the Lord, and the lurking month was five, saying: as you did for me The Lord in the days, in time, looked upon to take away my reproach among men. Whenever she received Christ in the womb, she was filled with the Holy Spirit and cried out with a great voice: “Where do these things come from to me, because the Mother of my Lord has come to me!” Rejoicing from the south, you cry out to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 3.
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Having come before the Lord with the spirit and strength of Elijah, even from the womb of your mother you were filled with the Holy Spirit, from where you were drowned and the wondrous Prophet appeared to you, while in your mother’s womb I am full, you are bursting with joy at the coming of the Mother of the Lord. You knew God in the wombs of the Blessed One, and You preached Him in a motherly voice: it is fitting that Divine things should be the most glorious beginning. Therefore, in reverent wonder, we cry out to you with joy:
Rejoice, even in your mother’s womb you showed the Lord who sent you with wonderful joy; Rejoice, for for the sake of you and your mother Elizabeth the incarnation of Christ was revealed.
Rejoice, for you too have been filled with the Holy Spirit; Rejoice, for she too has appeared as a wonderful prophetess.
Rejoice, for from her the Most Holy Virgin Mary was called Blessed among women; Rejoice, for this is what She and the Matter of the Lord are called.
Rejoice, for the seedless fruit of Toya was called Blessed; Rejoice, presentation of the Divine Wisdom.
Rejoice, blessing of holy marriage; Rejoice, wonderful vegetation of barren wombs.
Rejoice, you who surprised people with your birth; Rejoice, bright voice of the Word.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 4.
Confused by a storm of doubt, Priest Zechariah was unable to speak, according to the words of the angel. When, after your birth, the Forerunner of the Lord, I wrote your blessed name, opening your mouth and its tongue, and the verb, blessing God, and the prophecy, the verb: Blessed be the Lord O Lord of Israel, visit and create deliverance for your people, and you, O child, He was called the Prophet of the Most High, singing to him: Alleluia.
Ikos 4.
Hearing the people living around about your glorious and wonderful Christmas, I was amazed at the verb in myself: “What will this be?” We, the most glorious Forerunner of the Lord, since we are greater than all those born of women, more worthy of honor, we bless you:
Rejoice, thou filled with blessings from thy conception; Rejoice, glorified by God in your Christmas.
Rejoice, thou in thy infancy named by thy father the Prophet of the Most High; Rejoice, enlightened and strengthened in your adolescence by the Holy Spirit.
Rejoice, former relative in the flesh of God incarnate; Rejoice, you have received from God the high title of Forerunner and Baptist.
Rejoice, dawn, who announced a new Light to the world; Rejoice, star, you who illuminated the path leading to Christ.
Rejoice, O star of the Sun that never sets; Rejoice, lamp of unquenchable Light.
Rejoice, prepare the way for the coming Christ; Rejoice, manifest the Angel and man within you.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 5.
The ungodly command of the lawless child-killer Herod expelled you from your father’s house into the impassable desert, carrying matter, the Forerunner of the Lord, where you abode until the day of your appearance to Israel. Ilya, poisonous locusts and honey, and crying to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 5.
Seeing God's wondrous providence for you, John the praising of God, as if from the infant swaddling clothes of the Lenten life you appeared as a lover, from where you were sent by the will of the Most High to tell people the salvation that is coming in Christ, for this reason we cry out to you with wonder and love:
Rejoice, for, while still a child, you frightened King Herod; Rejoice, you were saved from vain murder by the right hand of the Most High.
Rejoice, fragrant thorn of the desert; Rejoice, you have astonished everyone with the height of your deeds.
Rejoice, faithful to the signpost of the right path; Rejoice, guardian of purity and chastity.
Rejoice, perfect image of evangelical self-sacrifice; Rejoice, protection and confirmation of the monastics.
Rejoice, enlightenment of the theological minds; Rejoice, you open the doors of God’s mercy to sinners.
Rejoice, the Lord granting forgiveness to repentant sinners; Rejoice, fruits worthy of repentance, create by helping.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 6.
Glorious preacher, you, divine Forerunner, you appeared in the desert of Jordan in the days of the appearance of Christ God to the world. This One that is coming to you, you showed to people with the verb: “Behold, Lamb of God, take away the sins of the world!”; Having come to know Him by faith, we sing to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 6.
Thou hast shone forth the light of truth, O God-enlightened John, manifesting to all the radiance of the Father’s Glory, which appeared fleshly for our sake. You cried out to the people in the desert: “Repent, for bring the Kingdom of Heaven near: create fruits worthy of repentance. Behold, he is coming for me, who will baptize you with water and the Spirit.” For this reason we cry out in praise to you:
Rejoice, herald of the coming of the Messiah; Rejoice, preparer of the ways of the Lord.
Rejoice, I am an intercessor for old and new graces; Rejoice, the limit of the prophets and the beginning of the apostles.
Rejoice, blessed voice of the Word; Rejoice, loud-voiced preacher of repentance.
Rejoice, thou who has converted many sons of Israel to the Lord; Rejoice, perfect people prepared by the Lord.
Rejoice, thou who boldly rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees; Rejoice, fruits that are worthy of repentance to create.
Rejoice, enlightenment of the spiritual guide; Rejoice, vigilant intercessor of those who seek your intercession.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 7.
I want to be baptized by you to the Lord Jesus, Blessed John, you said: “I demand that I be baptized by you,” but obeying the order of Tom: “Leave it now,” you raised your right hand upon His head and, having baptized without requiring cleansing, you cried out: Alleluia.
Ikos 7.
The Lord, granting you the new grace to be baptized, grants you to see the coming of the Spirit and to hear the voice of the Father from Heaven, testifying to His Sonship. It was also in Three Faces that you taught us to worship the One God. With mortal glorifying lips, we offer you this praise:
Rejoice, first preacher of the Trinity Epiphany; Rejoice, true worshiper of the One God in Three Persons.
Rejoice, the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove to the clairvoyant; Rejoice, His condescension from the Father on the Son is a witness.
Rejoice, voices from Heaven from God the Father to the hearer; Rejoice, manifestations of the Father’s love for the contemplating Son.
Rejoice, Son of God chosen to the Baptist; Rejoice, doer of His holy will.
Rejoice, zealous zealot of glorious service for the salvation of the human race; Rejoice, first performer of the great Sacrament of Baptism.
Rejoice, messenger of Divine joy; Rejoice, first teacher of the New Testament.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 8.
Having seen the strange and inexpressible humility of the incarnate God of the Word, the blessed Baptist, bowed His Divine head and received servile baptism, you yourself are completely fulfilled in great humility. Ask for this God-loving virtue for us, too, who are overcome by pride, so that from the heart we humbly cry out to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 8.
Filled with all the grace-filled gifts, the flow of temporary life ended, John the God-signer, You taught everyone the fulfillment of the Law and repentance to please the Lord. For this reason, we sing thanksgiving praise to you, the great teacher of truth:
Rejoice, O planter of the Law and justifications of the Lord; Rejoice, accuser of Herod’s iniquity.
Rejoice, for the correction of that zealot; Rejoice, having endured imprisonment and bonds for the sake of righteousness.
Rejoice, truncated one for the truth; Rejoice, for your body was buried more honorably from your disciples.
Rejoice, for by God’s care your head has been kept incorruptible; Rejoice, for you have given consolation, sanctification and healing to Christians.
Rejoice, for the faithful also worship thy right hand, which baptized the Lord; Rejoice, for from you many miracles are being performed to this day.
Rejoice, for through you the faithful are delivered from the passions of dishonor; Rejoice, for through you sinners are raised to repentance.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 9.
The whole angelic nature was amazed at the height of your service, and the Church reverently glorifies you as a friend of Christ God, who went before Him in spirit and in the power of Elijah. Jealous for the truth, you boldly denounced the Pharisees and the lawless Herod, and from him you received a martyr’s death. Worshiping your most honest head, we pray to you: deliver us from the passions of dishonor, so that with a pure heart and lips we sing: Alleluia.
Ikos 9.
All the oracles of earthly beings are not enough to praise you worthy, O John, the one who praises God: for you have been praised by the mouth of Christ, who is greater than the prophets and greater than all those born of women who are named after you. I can hardly bring you worthy praise, in bewilderment, I cry out loudly:
Rejoice, great glory to the Church of Christ; Rejoice, marvelous miracle of the angels.
Rejoice, joy and glorification of the forefathers; Rejoice, high praise of the prophets.
Rejoice, God-blessed crown of the Apostles; Rejoice, magnificent beauty of the saints.
Rejoice, martyrs have begun in new grace; Rejoice, perfection of the saints.
Rejoice, fertilizer for the righteous; Rejoice, foundation of virgins and fasters.
Rejoice, great consolation to all Christians; Rejoice, for from all Christian generations your name is glorified.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 10.
You preached the good news of Christ God, who came in the flesh, to save the world even to those in hell: just as the star that came to the sun, you illuminated the darkness and the shadow of those who sit dead. And soon the Lord brought you forth with all the righteous from the beginning, singing to Him as the Deliverer and Conqueror of death: Alleluia.
Ikos 10.
Wall and refuge of salvation to all who flow to you in prayer, divine John: for this reason we please you with songs of praise:
Rejoice, our mighty intercessor and faithful guardian from troubles; Rejoice, thou who art a quick helper and deliverer to those who suffer from the spirits of malice.
Rejoice, you who have sent blessings from God to those who are barren; Rejoice, you deliver those who come to you with faith from the anxiety of passions.
Rejoice, you will soon pacify the enmity of those who exist; Rejoice, in every need and sorrow, diligently give ambulance to those who come to you.
Rejoice, take away those who thrive on self-delusion and delusion; Rejoice, you help those who trust themselves to your intercession in the hour of death.
Rejoice, you freed those who love you from airy ordeals through your intercession; Rejoice, you grant to those who honor your glorious memory eternal life through your prayers.
Rejoice, intercession of the poor and widows and orphans; Rejoice, for God and the Mother of God are Christians’ refuge and hope.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 11.
All singing is not sufficient to praise thee, the Baptist of the Lord; but we, driven by love, dare to sing of your greatness, which you have graciously received from us, to the primate at the Throne of the Most Holy Trinity, and pray for us to be freed from all filth of sin, yes With a pure heart and lips we sing to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 11.
The Lamp of the unapproachable Light and the all-bright grace-filled gifts are filled with you, God-enlightened John, the leader, we joyfully offer to you this:
Rejoice, you who have clearly illuminated you with the Divine Light from above; Rejoice, glorifying God with the light of your virtues.
Rejoice, thou who hast revealed the magnificent glory of the Most Holy Trinity; Rejoice, you who show the right and wondrous path to Heaven.
Rejoice, and to those who are in hell, God, who appeared in the flesh, is the evangelist; Rejoice, O soul of the righteous, who have been kept in hell from eternity, the one who rejoices.
Rejoice, Lord of Christ God, sincere friend; Rejoice, you who have revealed the true Light to the world.
Rejoice, radiant light of the Gospel; Rejoice, generation of Christian glorification.
Rejoice, fulfillment of the Council of God; Rejoice, for from the east of the sun even to the west your name is praiseworthy.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 12.
The same-named grace, the Baptist of the Lord, and having been enriched by this, the glorious victorious one appeared: for you have conquered your enemies and all malice, and have sealed your great service with a martyrdom you are. Now, standing before the Throne of the King of Kings, pray to Him to grant the faithful victory over their enemies and prosperity in everything, and grace-filled strengthening in virtues, to those who sing to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 12.
Singing to God, who is wondrously glorified in you, we praise you, the blessed Baptist, as a sincere friend of Christ, we glorify your great deeds, we honor your martyrdom and this Tsevaya joyfully cry out to you:
Rejoice, Ecumenical Apostle and First Martyr of the New Testament; Rejoice, the first preacher of the revelation of the Kingdom of Heaven by the appearance of Christ on earth.
Rejoice, foretelling the divine calling of the tongues; Rejoice, unknown and secret wisdom of God revealed to the world.
Rejoice, you are more fruitful in divine deeds than others; Rejoice, for by the light of your deeds the Heavenly Father has been glorified.
Rejoice, for in your memory the Church of Christ has rejoiced beyond words; Rejoice, for now you enjoy eternal joy abundantly.
Rejoice, illuminated by the divine rays of the Trisolar Light; Rejoice, for with the bodiless you unceasingly sang the Trisagion hymn to God.
Rejoice, as now, with the mirror resolved, you directly see the Holy Trinity.
Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 13.
O great and glorious Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord John, accept from us the prayer now offered to you and with your prayers pleasing to God, deliver us from all evil and eternal evils torment, and make us heirs of the Kingdom of Heaven, so that we may sing to God forever: Alleluia.
This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos “Archangel Gabriel...” and the 1st kontakion “Chosen of the Years...”.
- Akathist to John the Baptist
- Prayer to John the Baptist for calm - here
- Akathist to John of Kronstadt -
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Kontakion 1
Chosen from ancient years to be the Forerunner and Baptist of the Savior of the world, Christ God, John the God-praised, glorifying the Lord who glorified you, let us sing praises to you, as greater than all those born of women, an angel in the flesh, a preacher of repentance. But you, who have great boldness towards the Lord, freeing us from all troubles and raising us to repentance, calling to you with love: Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Ikos 1
Archangel Gabriel, standing before God, was quickly sent to Priest Zechariah, who was always serving according to the order of his succession, went down to worship the Church of the Lord, and, presenting himself at the right hand of the altar of incense, preached the good news of your birth, the great John, proclaiming to Zechariah joy and gladness and how many they will rejoice in your Christmas. For this reason, we, marveling and rejoicing at God’s wondrous favor for you, cry out in reverent praise to you: Rejoice, ineffable and mysterious Council of God; Rejoice, His fulfillment is marvelous to behold. Rejoice, manifested by the prophecy of Isaiah before many years; Rejoice, messenger before the face of the Lord, anciently prophesied. Rejoice, destined to be the great prophet of the Most High; Rejoice, born according to the promise of an Angel. Rejoice, thou filled with the Holy Spirit even in thy mother's womb; Rejoice, before your birth you were notified of a great service. Rejoice, permission for the infertility of parents; Rejoice, priest of God, joy and gladness. Rejoice, daughter of Aaron's vegetation; Rejoice, God-given fruit of prayer. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 2
Seeing Zechariah the angel who appeared to him, he was confused, and fear attacked him, and he did not believe the words of his gospel about your birth: when he was quickly bound by dumbness for unbelief, marveling at the glorious miracle, he cried out to God with all his heart: Alleluia.
Ikos 2
The incomprehensible mind understands the searching people, waiting for Zechariah, wondering, delaying him in the church; I went out to him and was not able to speak to them, but only anointed him, understanding everything, like seeing a vision in the church. We, glorifying the wondrous Creator of miracles, God, cry out to you like this: Rejoice, good culprit of the Father’s silence; Rejoice, your mother's tears have been transformed into joy. Rejoice, for this reproach has been taken away from people; Rejoice, great consolation to those who gave birth to you. Rejoice, for in the sixth month the Most Holy Virgin Mary in Nazareth was notified by an Angel of your conception; Rejoice, for many rejoiced at your Christmas. Rejoice, for you have received a name of grace from an Angel; Rejoice, for in your name the silence of your father Zechariah was resolved. Rejoice, for your father has blessed the Name of God in you; Rejoice, for at your wonderful Christmas fear and wonder have appeared in the neighborhood of those living. Rejoice, for throughout the entire country of Judea your wondrous Nativity will be proclaimed; Rejoice, for through you you have brought salvation to many in this world. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 3
The power of the Most High resolved the barrenness of the righteous Elizabeth, who had become pregnant in her days: for thee, the glorious Forerunner of the Lord, was conceived, and hid for five months, saying: as the Lord has done for me in the days, in the Lord's grace to take away my reproach among men. When you received Her in the womb of Christ, you were filled with the Holy Spirit and cried out with a great voice: “Where does this come from to me, since the Mother of my Lord came to me!” Since you rejoice, you cry out to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 3
Having come before the Lord with the spirit and strength of Elijah, even from the womb of your mother you were filled with the Holy Spirit, from which you also appeared as a wondrous Prophet, while in your mother’s womb you jumped with joy at the coming of the Mother of the Lord. For you knew God, carried about in your wombs, the Blessed One, and He you preached with a motherly voice: it is fit for Divine things to be the glorious beginning. Therefore, reverently marveling at this, we cry out to you with joy: Rejoice, even in your mother’s womb you presented the Lord with wonderful joy; Rejoice, for for the sake of you and your mother Elizabeth the Incarnation of Christ was revealed. Rejoice, for she too was filled with the Holy Spirit; Rejoice, for she too has appeared as a wonderful prophetess. Rejoice, for from her the Most Holy Virgin Mary was called Blessed among women; Rejoice, for this is what She called the Matter of the Lord. Rejoice, for the seedless fruit of Toya was called Blessed; Rejoice, presentation of the Divine Wisdom. Rejoice, blessing of holy marriage; Rejoice, wonderful vegetation of barren falsehoods. Rejoice, you astonished people with your birth; Rejoice, bright voice of the Word. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 4
Confused by a storm of doubt, Priest Zechariah was unable to speak according to the words of the angel. When, after your birth, the Forerunner of the Lord wrote your gracious name, opening his mouth and his tongue, and speaking, blessing God, and prophesying, saying: Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for you have visited and brought deliverance to your people, and you, as a child, are a prophet Be called the Most High, singing to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 4
Hearing the people living around about your glorious and wonderful Christmas, I said to myself with surprise: “What will this lad do?” We, the glorious Forerunner of the Lord, as greater than all those born of women, worthily honor you, we please you: Rejoice, filled with grace-filled manifestations from your conception; Rejoice, glorified by God in your Christmas. Rejoice, thou in thy infancy named by thy father the Prophet of the Most High; Rejoice, enlightened and strengthened in your adolescence by the Holy Spirit. Rejoice, former kinsman of God incarnate; Rejoice, you have received from God the high title of Forerunner and Baptist. Rejoice, dawn, who announced a new light to the world; Rejoice, star, you who illuminated the path leading to Christ. Rejoice, day of the unsetting Sun; Rejoice, lamp of unquenchable Light. Rejoice, prepare the way for the coming Christ; Rejoice, manifest the angel and man within you. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 5
The ungodly command of the lawless child killer Herod expelled you from your father’s house into the impenetrable desert, carrying matter, the Forerunner of the Lord, where you remained until the day of your appearance to Israel, eating poisonous locusts and drinking honey and crying out to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 5
Seeing God's wondrous providence for you, John the Blessed One, as if from the infant shrouds of a fasting life you appeared to be a lover, from where by the will of the Most High you were sent to preach to people the salvation coming in Christ. For this reason, with surprise and love, we cry to you: Rejoice, for while still a child, you frightened King Herod; Rejoice, you were saved from vain murder by the right hand of the Most High. Rejoice, fragrant thorn of the desert; Rejoice, having astonished everyone with the height of your exploits. Rejoice, faithful guide to the right path; Rejoice, guardian of purity and chastity. Rejoice, perfect example of evangelical self-sacrifice; Rejoice, protection and affirmation of the monastics. Rejoice, enlightenment of theological minds; Rejoice, open the doors of God's mercy to sinners. Rejoice, grant forgiveness from the Lord to repentant sinners; Rejoice, fruits worthy of repentance, create and help. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 6
Glorious preacher, you, divine Forerunner, appeared in the desert of Jordan in the days of the appearance of Christ God to the world. You have shown this Coming to you to people, saying: Behold, Lamb of God, take away the sins of the world; Having come to know Him by faith, we sing to Him: Alleluia.
Ikos 6
Thou hast shone forth the light of truth, O John, enlightenment of God: show unto all the radiance of the Father's Glory, which appeared carnally for our sake. You cried out to the people in the desert: “Repent, for fear bring the Kingdom of Heaven closer: create fruits worthy of repentance. Behold, He is coming for me, Who baptizes you with water and spirit.” For this reason we cry out to you in praise: Rejoice, herald of the coming of the Messiah; Rejoice, preparer of the ways of the Lord. Rejoice, mediator of old and new graces; Rejoice, the limit of the prophets and the beginning of the apostles. Rejoice, blessed voice of the Word; Rejoice, great-voiced preacher of repentance. Rejoice, thou who converted many of the children of Israel to the Lord; Rejoice, perfect people prepared by the Lord. Rejoice, boldly rebuking the Pharisees and Sadducees; Rejoice, you who teach to create fruits worthy of repentance. Rejoice, enlightenment of the spiritual guide; Rejoice, vigilant intercessor of those who seek your intercession. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 7
I want to be baptized by you to the Lord Jesus, Blessed John, you said: “I demand that I be baptized by you,” and obeying Him: “Leave it now,” you raised your right hand on His head and, baptizing without requiring cleansing, you cried out: Alleluia.
Ikos 7
The Lord has given you the new grace to be baptized, granting you the gift of seeing the coming of the Spirit and hearing the voice of the Father from Heaven, testifying to His Sonship. From here, in the Three Persons, You taught us to worship the One God, Who glorified Him with mortal lips, in this praise; We bring you: Rejoice, first preacher of the Trinity Epiphany; Rejoice, true worshiper of the One God in Three Persons. Rejoice, the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove for the clairvoyant; Rejoice, His condescension from the Father to the Son as a witness. Rejoice, voices from Heaven from God the Father to the hearer; Rejoice, manifestation of the love of the Father to the contemplating Son. Rejoice, chosen Son of God to the Baptist; Rejoice, doer of His holy will. Rejoice, zealous zealot of glorious service to the salvation of the human race; Rejoice, first performer of the great Sacrament of Baptism. Rejoice, messenger of Divine joy; Rejoice, first teacher of the New Testament. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 8
Having seen the strange and ineffable humility of the incarnate God of the Word, the blessed Baptist, having bowed His Divine head and receiving servile baptism, you yourself were completely filled with great humility. Ask for this God-loving virtue for us, possessed by pride, as if from the heart we are humble and cry out to him: Alleluia.
Ikos 8
Full of grace-filled gifts, ending the course of temporary life, John the Significant of God, you taught everyone by fulfilling the Law and repentance to please the Lord. For this reason, we sing thanksgiving praise to you, the great teacher of truth: Rejoice, planter of the Law and justifications of the Lord; Rejoice, accuser of Herod's iniquity. Rejoice, for the correction of that zealot; Rejoice, having endured imprisonment and bonds for the sake of righteousness. Rejoice, thou who was truncated at the head for the truth; Rejoice, for your body was buried more honorably from your disciples. Rejoice, for by God’s care your head has been preserved incorruptible; Rejoice, for she has been given for consolation, sanctification and healing to Christians. Rejoice, for the faithful also piously worship your right hand, which baptized the Lord; Rejoice, for from you many miracles are being performed by those to this day. Rejoice, for through your faithfulness they are delivered from the passions of dishonor; Rejoice, for through you sinners are raised to repentance. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 9
All angelic nature was amazed at the height of your service, and the Church reverently glorifies you as a friend of Christ God, who went before Him with the spirit and power of Elijah. Zealous for the truth, you boldly denounced the Pharisees and the lawless Herod, and from him you suffered a martyr’s death. Worshiping your most honorable head, we pray to you: deliver us from the passions of dishonor, so that with a pure heart and lips we sing: Alleluia.
Ikos 9
The Vetianism of all earthly beings is not sufficient to praise you worthy, O John of God: for you have praised the mouth of Christ, higher than the prophets and greater than all those born of wives you are named. How can I bring you worthy praise, perplexed, crying out to you: Rejoice, great glory to the Church of Christ; rejoice. A marvelous miracle of angels. Rejoice, joy and glorification of the forefathers; Rejoice, high praise for the prophets. Rejoice, divine crown of the apostles; Rejoice, magnificent beauty of the saints. Rejoice, martyrs have begun in new grace; Rejoice, perfection of the saints. Rejoice, fertilizer of the righteous; Rejoice, foundation of virgins and fasters. Rejoice, great consolation for all Christians; Rejoice, for from all Christian generations your name is glorified. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 10
To save the world, You brought the good news of Christ, Who came in the flesh, to those in hell, just as the Virgin Mary came before the sun, and You illuminated the darkness and the shadow of death for those who sit. From there you were soon brought out by the Lord with all the righteous from the ages, singing to Him as the Deliverer and Conqueror of death: Alleluia.
Ikos 10
You are a wall and a saving refuge for all who come to you in prayer, divine John. For this reason, we please you with songs of praise: Rejoice, our mighty intercessor and faithful guardian from troubles; Rejoice, quick helper and deliverer to those who suffer from the spirits of evil. Rejoice, you who send blessings from God to those who are barren; Rejoice, freeing those who flow to you with faith from the anxiety of passions. Rejoice, thou who quickly pacifies the enmity of those who exist; Rejoice, in every need and sorrow, give quick help to those who diligently come to you. Rejoice, taking away those who benefit from self-delusion and delusion; Rejoice, help those who entrust themselves to your intercession in the hour of death. Rejoice, through your intercession you free those who love you from airy ordeals; Rejoice, you who honor your glorious memory with eternal life through your prayers. Rejoice, intercession of the poor and widows and orphans; Rejoice, according to God and the Mother of God, Christians have refuge and hope. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 11
All singing is not sufficient to praise you, the Baptist of the Lord, according to the achievements of your virtues. But we, compelled by love, dare to sing of your greatness, which you mercifully receive from us, the primate at the Throne of the Most Holy Trinity, and pray that we be freed from all filth of sin, so that with a pure heart and lips we sing to God: Alleluia.
Ikos 11
You are filled with the lamp of unapproachable Light and all-bright grace-filled gifts, to John, God-enlightened, leading, we joyfully offer to you like this: Rejoice, who has clearly illuminated you from above with the Divine Light; Rejoice, having glorified God with the light of your virtues. Rejoice, thou who hast revealed the magnificent glory of the Most Holy Trinity; Rejoice, you who have shown the right and wondrous path to Heaven. Rejoice, and to those who are in hell, God appeared in the flesh, the evangelist; Rejoice, O joyer of righteous souls, who have been kept in hell from eternity. Rejoice, Lord Christ God, sincere friend; Rejoice, you who have revealed the true Light to the world. Rejoice, radiant light of the Gospel; Rejoice, kind of Christian glorification. Rejoice, fulfillment of the Council of God; Rejoice, for from the east of the sun even to the west your name is praiseworthy. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 12
The same-name grace of the Baptist of the Lord, and having been enriched by it, you have appeared as a glorious victor: for you have conquered your enemies and have sealed all malice and your great service with the feat of martyrdom. Now, standing before the Throne of the King of Kings, pray to him to grant the faithful victory over their enemies and prosperity in everything, and grace-filled strengthening in virtues, singing to him: Alleluia.
Ikos 12
Singing to God, who has been wondrously glorified in you, we praise you, blessed Baptist, as a sincere friend of Christ, we glorify your great deeds, we honor your martyrdom and joyfully cry out to you: Rejoice, universal apostle and first martyr of the New Testament; Rejoice, first preacher of the revelation of the Kingdom of Heaven by the appearance of Christ on earth. Rejoice, foretelling the Divine calling of tongues; Rejoice, unknown and secret wisdom of God revealed to the world. Rejoice, you who are more fruitful in divine deeds than others; Rejoice, for the Heavenly Father is glorified by the light of your deeds. Rejoice, for in your memory the Church of Christ rejoices beyond words; Rejoice, for now you enjoy eternal joy in abundance. Rejoice, illuminated by the divine rays of the Trisolar Light; Rejoice, for with the disembodied you have silently sung the Trisagion to God. Rejoice, for now, with a resolved mirror, you directly see the Holy Trinity. Rejoice, great John, Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord.
Kontakion 13
O great and glorious Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord John, accept from us the prayer now brought to you and with your God-pleasing prayers deliver us from all evil, and remove eternal torment, and make us heirs of the Kingdom of Heaven, so that we may sing to God forever: Alleluia.
(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)
