Word Sung as Light

Word Sung as Light

Upon hearing a recording of the Orthodox Christian Monks 

of the Svetogorskaya Monastery

 

A deep, slow stream of tones, of modes, of chants

Where time and all eternity flow as one

Through voices and dreamlike echoings

Among the Altars of the earth and sky

 

The song begins upon the Bosporus

Ascends up to and beyond the spheres of Heaven

Then gently rains upon the souls of men

Forever and ever, in this world and the next

 

The Word first sung as Light, sung as Creation

And sung again as the Incarnation



Orthodox Christian Monks chant Christmas Carols – YouTube

 

(I’m not sure “carols” is correct; in their awe and reverence these works appear to be hymns.)

 

Original Poetry