Cherubic Hymn
St. Vladimir's Seminary Chorale Lyrics

The lyrics of the St. Vlad's Chant song "Cherubic Hymn" convey a deep spiritual message. The first line, "Иже Херувимы тайно образующе" (Let us who mystically represent the Cherubim), refers to the singers taking on a symbolic role of the heavenly beings known as Cherubim. The Cherubim are often depicted as majestic and awe-inspiring creatures in religious art.

The following line, "и животворящей Троице трисвятую песнь припевающе" (And who sing the thrice-holy hymn to the life-creating Trinity), emphasizes the singers' devotion to the Holy Trinity – God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – who are believed to be the source of all life. The hymn they sing is a sacred chant of praise and worship.

The next line, "всякое ныне житейское отложим попечение" (And now lay aside all the cares of this life), suggests that the singers are letting go of worldly concerns and distractions in order to focus on their spiritual purpose. They are encouraged to set aside the worries and burdens of their daily lives to create space for spiritual reflection and connection with God.

The fourth line, "Яко да Царя всех подымем" (That we may receive the King of All), indicates that the purpose of setting aside their earthly cares is to prepare themselves to receive the divine presence of God, often symbolized as the King of All. The singers aspire to elevate their spiritual state and open themselves to the grace and blessings that come from encountering the divine.

The final line, "Ангельскими невидимо дориносима чинми Аллилуиа" (Who comes invisibly borne by the angelic host, Alleluia), describes the way in which the divine presence comes to them. The singers acknowledge that God's coming is not visible to the human eye but is accompanied by the angelic beings, who assist in ushering in his presence. The word "Alleluia" is added as a joyful and celebratory exclamation, recognizing and praising the divine presence.

Overall, the lyrics of "Cherubic Hymn" invite the listeners to participate in a sacred moment of praising and worshipping the Holy Trinity, while also encouraging them to release their worldly concerns and prepare themselves to receive the divine presence. It is a call for spiritual connection and an acknowledgment of the unseen angelic realm that accompanies God's presence.