3. Hymns of the Eastern Church: Greek and Syriac.
The ancient Eastern Church developed a rich hymnody, rising steadily in the fourth century until it reached its culmination in the eighth and ninth centuries. Since it employed the Greek and Syriac languages, its hymnic treasures remained almost completely hidden and unknown to the English speaking churches for many centuries. It is only in recent years, through the efforts of scholars like John Mason Neale and Edward Caswall that some of the Eastern hymns have been translated and made available for modern use. Eastern hymns are characterized by an objective, dignified, contemplation of God. Except when confessing sin and unworthiness, they contain nothing of the subjective feelings of the worshipper such as is found in many modern hymns. Though there is very little in the Hymnary from the Eastern Church, our collection is enriched by the inclusion of a small number of hymns from this source.
Greek Hymns in the Hymnary
Clement of Alexandria, 170-220, “Shepherd of tender youth” ([398]) Candle Lighting Hymn, “O gladsome light” ([34]) Synesius, c. 375-430, “Lord Jesus, think on me” ([196]) St. Germanus, 634-734, “A great and mighty wonder” ([526]) St. John of Damascus, 8th century, “The day of resurrection” ([115]) “Come, ye faithful, raise the strain” ([113]) St. Stephen the Sabaite, 725-94, “Art thou weary, heavy-laden” ([143]) Candle Lighting Hymn, “Darkening night, the land doth” ([32])