E06850: Hymn in honour of *Stephen the First Martyr (S00030) composed in Latin in Spain possibly in the 7th century.

Hymnodia Hispanica, Hymn 171

First two strophes of this vesperal hymn are addressed to Christ who came to the world in order to defeat death by his death (it is an allusion to Christmas celebrated just day before the feast of Stephen, see E05172). Stephen is presented as the first follower of Christ who offered his life sentenced to death because of false testimonies (strophes 3–4). His prayer for his persecutors is mentioned and his death by stoning assisted by *Paul, the Apostle (strophes 5–8).

(9) Quesumus flentes, benedicte prime
martyr et ciues sociate iustis,
35 celitus clare regionis heres,
inclite pollens,
(10) Promtus hic nostrum facinus remitte,
tolle langorem, tribue salutem,
confodi hostem, releua merorem
40 morte subacta.

'(9) We ask you crying, bless us, o First Martyr and fellowman of the just, heir of the shining country of heaven, famous and powerful,

(10) dismiss quickly our crime, take away pain, give us salvation, strike down the enemy, remove sorrow, as the death has been overcome.'

Here follows the strophe praising the Trinity (the doxology).

Text: Sánchez 2010, 626–629. Summary and translation M. Szada.