Two Hymns of Saint Ephrem that Roman Catholics Should Know

St. Ephrem (306 –373 AD), the only deacon declared a Doctor of the Church, is best remembered today as a composer of hymns (over four hundred are still in existence). The Syrian born saint died after he caught the plague while ministering to the sick.

The Maronite and Syrian Catholics who use the Syriac calendar, celebrate the feast day of Saint Ephrem (Ephraim) the Syrian on January 28. The Roman Rite uses the General Roman Calendar and celebrate him on June 9. Both days commemorate the same Saint Ephrem, known as the "Harp of the Holy Spirit" the most prolific song writer in Christianity.

While his hymns are sung exclusively in Eastern Rite liturgies, Roman Catholics do use his writings (lyrics) in the The Liturgy of the Hours. Therefore, since most Roman Catholics don't pray the Liturgy of the Hours we are sadly unaware of Saint Ephrem and his music. We would have to go out of our way to locate and appreciate his hymns.

Here are two of his most well known hymns which have continuosly been used in liturgy since ancient times…

Kefneth Kmo Zabnin (sung during the Great Lent) and Nuhro d-nakha (sung at the end of Lent on Holy Saturday and later throughout the Christmas season).

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Kefneth Kmo Zabnin (‘Many Times I Have Been Hungry’)

I was hungry many times, for my human nature desired to eat. However, I abstained and did not eat, so that I may become worthy of the blessing reserved for those who fast.

My muddy nature demanded irrigation, but I let it dry out, so that it might be washed by the dew of Paradise.

All my thoughts are centered on the altar and my will is set on priesthood; As a pure lamb, I sacrificed myself and presented it as an offering.

My brothers, with the blood of God, I extinguished the fire of desire burning in my senses, to ensure it would not burn my soul.

From my youth to my old age, I, Lord, have borne Thy yoke and I have worked every day, until the end of time, in joy.

*Listen to Kefneth Kmo Zabnin HERE

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Nuhro d Nakha (Hymn to the Light)

The Light of the just and joy of the upright is Christ Jesus our Lord.

Begotten of the Father, He manifested himself to us.

He came to rescue us from darkness and to fill us with the radiance of His light.

Day is dawning upon us; the power of darkness is fading away.

From the true Light there arises for us the light which illumines our darkened eyes.
His glory shines upon the world and enlightens the very depths of the abyss.

Death is annihilated, night has vanished, and the gates of Sheol are broken.
Creatures lying in darkness from ancient times are clothed in light.

The dead arise from the dust and sing because they have a Savior.
He brings salvation and grants us life. He ascends to his Father on high.
He will return in glorious splendor and shed His light on those gazing upon Him.

Our King comes in majestic glory.

Let us light our lamps and go forth to meet Him.
Let us find our joy in Him, for He has found joy in us.
He will indeed rejoice us with His marvelous light.

Let us glorify the majesty of the Son and give thanks to the almighty Father
Who, in an outpouring of love, sent Him to us, to fill us with hope and salvation.
When He manifests Himself, the saints awaiting Him in weariness and sorrow,
will go forth to meet Him with lighted lamps.

The angels and guardians of heaven will rejoice
in the glory of the just and upright people of earth;

Together crowned with victory,
they will sing hymns and psalms.

Stand up then and be ready!

Give thanks to our King and Savior,
Who will come in great glory to gladden us
with His marvelous light in His kingdom.