Praying the Trisagion
The Trisagion, also known as the Thrice-Holy Hymn, is an ancient prayer in Christian liturgy, particularly used in the Eastern Orthodox, Eastern Catholic, and some Western Christian traditions. The name “Trisagion” comes from Greek, meaning “Thrice-Holy,” as it praises God three times with the words:
“Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.”
This prayer is often recited or sung during liturgical services, especially at the beginning of the Divine Liturgy or other prayer services. Its threefold invocation of God’s holiness reflects the belief in the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—each aspect of God being holy and deserving of reverence. The Trisagion has its roots in early Christian worship and is inspired by the Sanctusprayer, found in the vision of Isaiah (Isaiah 6:3) and echoed in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 4:8), where angels proclaim God’s holiness.
In the Western tradition, the Trisagion also appears on Good Friday, emphasizing its universal appeal in Christian spirituality as a way to adore God’s transcendence and seek His mercy.
Praying the Trisagion
Praying the Trisagion is a beautiful and reverent way to enter into God’s presence, invoking His holiness and mercy. Here is a step-by-step guide to praying it, often used in Eastern Christian traditions but accessible to anyone who wishes to include this in their prayer practice:
1. Prepare Yourself in Prayerful Silence
Begin by finding a quiet place and centering yourself, bringing your thoughts into God’s presence. Some may choose to cross themselves or light a candle as a sign of reverence.
2. The Prayer of the Trisagion
Pray each line slowly, pausing to reflect on God’s holiness and majesty:
“Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.”
Repeat this prayer three times, each time focusing on the different attributes of God: His divinity, His strength, and His eternal nature.
3. Concluding Prayers (Optional)
In some traditions, the Trisagion prayer is part of a longer series of prayers. Here is one way to conclude:
- “Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.”
Then, follow with these shorter prayers:
- “All-holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our transgressions. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities, for Your name’s sake.“
- “Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.”
4. Final Reflection
Conclude by sitting in silence, allowing God’s presence to fill your heart. Offer any additional personal prayers or intentions you may have, trusting in His mercy and love.
Meaning and Reflection
As you pray, remember that each line of the Trisagion is an act of adoration and submission. It acknowledges our need for God’s mercy and reminds us of His holiness, power, and eternal nature. It invites us to enter a deeper awareness of the mystery of God, just as the angels do in heaven.
This prayer is often prayed as a way to center oneself, especially during times of need, sorrow, or confusion, as it calls on God to bring His peace and mercy into our lives.
Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.
