The Praise of the Lesser Ones
Hymn ascribed to Mani, in Parthian.
.... Eternally shall we praise you, we and our kin, who are chosen,
and the family, to which we belong, that is those that are of you.Father, we would call upon you, we would lift up our eyes to you.
Our souls sing before you, so that you may be merciful to us in
your great mercy, so that you may send us the helper ....
(some verses missing)Holy, Holy, to your twelve Worlds of Light.
Holy, Holy to the Worlds of Light that are appointed
as jewels to your greatness.
Holy to the Living Ether, the bright storeroom of the wonderful worlds,
Holy, Holy, Holy to the praised Earth,
Holy to the bright appearance of the blessed inhabitants...
(some verses missing)
Holy, Holy to your Greatness, you highest of all epiphanies,
And to your bright beauty which is immeasurable,
Holy, Holy to you, Father!
Holy, Holy, Holy, Holy to your praised reign.
Holy, Holy, Holy to you, Father!
Holy to your chosen name!
Holy, Holy, Holy to you, Father!(some verses missing)
Holy, Holy, Holy to your great Thought from which every
beneficial and zealous thought has arisen.
Holy to your great Understanding from which every
beneficial and zealous understanding has arisen.
Holy, Holy, Holy to you, Father!
Holy to your great and praised Ether that is above
all ethers in the world.