Step into the world of the late Roman Empire and witness the rise of Emperor Theodosius I. This hymn-like composition celebrates his military brilliance, political wisdom, and victories over barbarian forces, including the decisive Battle of the Frigidus against the 'pagan Augustus' Eugenius(who was himself most likely not pagan) and unifying the Empire under his rule.
Theodosius’ reign marked a turning point for religion in the Empire. He completed what was started by Constantine the Great, who ended the persecution of Christians and embraced the faith personally; Through the Edict of Thessalonica, Theodosius made Nicene Christianity the official faith of the Empire, while actively curbing pagan cults and non-Nicene sects. Beyond religion, the hymn honors Theodosius’ unification of imperial authority and the ongoing consolidation of Roman law, envisioning a realm of order under one Empire, one God.
Blending history with theological triumph, this composition offers a glimpse into how the Late Roman world saw power, faith, and the enduring legacy of the Empire. Experience the drama, devotion, and ambition of one of Rome’s greatest emperors.
The lyrics are written in Late Antique Latin, reflecting the 4th-century imperial and panegyric style, while incorporating Neo-Latin literary techniques. The composition evokes the epic grandeur of the era, dictated by the musical instruments of the 4th-century Roman Empire, which enhance the ceremonial and martial atmosphere.
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Lyrics translated to english:
Behold, Theodosius rises,
illustrious from the East,
bearing the sign of the Cross on his shield,
holding the Empire most firmly in his mind
The onrush of the barbarians is broken,
the Gothic fury restrained;
he established peace with the peoples wisely,
joined through a prudent treaty
O Unifier! Defender of the Faith!
One law binds the peoples,
one faith rules their hearts,
one God and Lord!
By the sign of Christ, Rome is renewed,
one Empire under Heaven!
The Edict of Thessalonica
resounds throughout the world:
“Only the Nicene faith
is the true light and altar.”
Empty images and profane arts
fall; the unconquered Cross stands.
Jupiter, Mars, empty temples -
Christ reigns eternally over all!
O Unifier! Defender of the Faith!
One law binds the peoples,
one faith rules their hearts,
one God and Lord!
By the sign of Christ, Rome is renewed,
one Empire under Heaven!
At the Frigid River
the wild peoples clash;
but the Eagles and the Labarum
carry certain victory
The pagan enemy rushes,
the hope of the old gods is shattered -
One Triumphant Trinity
reigns in the heavens, governing the entire Empire
O Unifier! Defender of the Faith!
One law binds the peoples,
one faith rules their hearts,
one God and Lord!
By the sign of Christ, Rome is renewed,
one Empire under Heaven!
And now the laws of Constantine
up to this hour
are gathered into one code,
order and authority set in place
Thus the old age is closed,
thus a new age rises:
Roman law is made firm, the true faith guarded,
the Empire serves God forever
O Unifier! Defender of the Faith!
One law binds the peoples,
one faith rules their hearts,
one God and Lord!
By the sign of Christ, Rome is renewed,
one Empire under Heaven!
#romanempire #romanarmy #Theodosius #epicmusic
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