"If we say the cherubim are great, you are greater than they, for the cherubim carry the throne of God (cf. Pss. 80:1; 99:1), while you hold God in your hands. If we say the seraphim are great, you are greater than them all, for the seraphim cover their faces with their wings (cf. Is. 6:2), unable to look upon the perfect glory, while you not only gaze upon his face but caress it and offer your breasts to his holy mouth." (St. Athanasius, Homily of the Papyrus of Turin)
Accordingly, we sing:
It is truly meet to call thee blessed,
the Theotokos,
the ever blessed and all immaculate and Mother of our God.
More honorable than the cherubim,
and beyond compare more glorious than the seraphim.
Thee, who without corruption, bearest God the Word,
true Theotokos, we magnify thee.
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