The Paschal Troparion, identified by its opening line “Christ is risen”, is an early Christian hymn celebrating Easter, likely dating back to the 2nd century. Its text is derived from 1 Corinthians 15:20, emphasizing the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
This hymn has been integral to the Paschal Divine Liturgy within the Byzantine Rite since at least the 5th or 6th century. Its historical usage is confirmed by the Jerusalem tropologion, suggesting its performance during the Easter Vigil in ancient Jerusalem’s Easter liturgy.
Traditionally chanted in the original Koine Greek, the Paschal Troparion transcends linguistic boundaries, often performed in local and vernacular languages. Its profound impact on Easter liturgies echoes through centuries of Church history, embodying the quintessential expression of Christian joy and the victory of life over death.
Pray below the Paschal troparian:
Christ is risen from the dead,
by death trampling death,
and to those in the tombs
granting life!
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