Dies Irae

A translation by C. G. Mark breiter

Day of wrath, of wrath appalling, Psalms and oracles recalling Of a world in ashes falling.

Day of dreadful trepidation, Day of stern adjudication, Comes the Judge to judge creation.

Hark ! the trumpet sounds like thunder Earth and heaven are torn asunder Death and nature seized with wonder.

From the depths the dead resurgent, From their sepulchres emergent, Answer to the summons urgent.

See the book of memories hoarded Wherein all has been recorded Whence must judgement be awarded.

Now before the Judge in session What was secret finds expression, Vengeance overtakes transgression.

What to plead in mitigation ? Whom beseech for mediation ? Scarce the just may find salvation.

Mighty King of awe transcending, To the faithful grace extending Save me from the doom impending.

Since for me thy way was taken Leave me not that day forsaken ; Let my plight thy pity waken.

Seeking me thy limbs were failing, Love o'er pain and death prevailing, Shall such love be unavailing ?

Jesu, by thy crucifixion I implore thy benediction Lest I burn in dire affliction.

Judge most just of vengeance even, Ere by fire- the orb is riven Be my tresRasses forgiven.

Guilt with shame my features staining ; My poor prayers not disdaining, Spare me, Lord of love sustaining.

Thou to Mary gay 'St remission And didst hear the thief's petition ; Thou canst save me from perdition.

When the accursed lie confounded,

By devouring ,flames surrounded, ' Still thy mercy flows unbounded.

Call me at the great dividing, Grant me with thy sheep confiding On thy right a place abiding.

Suppliant dust before thee bending, All my heart in anguish rending, In thy hands I place my ending.