‖ trisagion
(trɪˈsægɪən, -ˈseɪgɪən)
Also 4–9 in Lat. form trisagium; also 9 trishagion; also in masc. form trisagios.
[a. Gr. (τὸ) τρισάγιον, the eucharistic hymn, neut. of τρισάγιος thrice holy, f. τρίς thrice + ἅγιος holy.]
An ancient hymn, used especially in the Oriental Churches, beginning with a threefold invocation of God as holy. Also loosely applied to the ‘angelic hymn’ called Ter-sanctus or sanctus, q.v.
| 1387 Trevisa Higden (Rolls) V. 11 He ordeyned þat trisagium, þat is, ‘Sanctus, sanctus, sanctus,’ schulde be songe at masse. 1635 E. Pagitt Christianogr. 99 The Trisagion being solemnly sung, the Copt Priest beginneth the Consecration. 1654–6 Trapp Comm. Isa. vi. 1 The prophet Isaiah..heareth the trisagion of the blessed angels. 1710 Wheatley Bk. Com. Prayer vi. §19 Of the Trisagium. a 1711 Ken Christophil. Poet. Wks. 1721 I. 483 O may I with Seraphick Heat Trisagions while I live repeat. 1885 Notes on Angels 56 In the Tris-Hagion or Ter Sanctus of the Communion Office. 1894 F. Watson Bk. Genesis true Hist. v. 89 He [Isaiah] hears the Seraphim chanting the Trisagion. |