Saint Archangel Michael is the supreme commander of the Heavenly Host, the primary fighter against the forces of darkness, and the protector of defenders. Believers pray to him for protection from evil spirits, enemies, natural disasters, and the victory of good.
On this page, you can read the Akathist online in English, learn the rules of prayer, and download high-quality formatted text files of the Akathist for free to print or read offline.
Chosen commander of the Heavenly Host and defender of mankind, we, delivered by thee from afflictions, bring thee songs of thanksgiving; and do thou, standing before the throne of the King of Glory, set us free from all distress that we may cry to thee: Rejoice, Michael, great captain, with all the hosts of heaven!
Ikos 1
Show thyself, O Michael, as leader of the fiery angelic hosts, and hear us who with earthly lips but thankful hearts offer thee these praises:
Rejoice, first-formed star of the world; rejoice, candle of truth and justice, shining like gold.
Rejoice, first receiver of the rays of the uncreated light; rejoice, head of angels and archangels.
Rejoice, Michael, great captain, with all the hosts of heaven!
Kontakion 2
Beholding the splendor of your spiritual beauty and the strength of your right hand that is like a flash of lightning, you stood against the exceedingly proud Satan. When he was cast down from heaven, the hosts of heaven led by you shouted for joy: Alleluia!
Ikos 2
Pray that our minds may be cleansed of passions, wonderful Michael, that rising from the earthly to the heavenly, we may sing to thee thus:
Rejoice, closest spectator of God’s ineffable beauty; rejoice, faithful fulfiller of the pre-eternal judgments of the Trinity.
Rejoice, you at whom the heavenly hosts stand amazed; rejoice, you before whom the hosts of hell tremble.
Rejoice, Michael, great captain, with all the hosts of heaven!
Kontakion 3
Through the power of God, you calm the storms of life and guard us in our spiritual battles, Archangel Michael. Be our firm helper in distress, that we may ever sing to God: Alleluia!
Ikos 3
All Christian people have you, O Archangel Michael, as a mighty defender and helper in battle against the adversary. Desiring your marvelous protection, we cry:
Rejoice, you by whom Satan was cast down like lightning from heaven; rejoice, you by whom humanity preserved goes up to heaven.
Rejoice, never-defeated warrior of Christ; rejoice, quick consoler of those in trouble.
Rejoice, Michael, great captain, with all the hosts of heaven!
Kontakion 13
O chief captain of God, accept our present offering. Deliver and preserve us from all distress and sins, that progressing in faith, hope, and love, we may sing to Christ: Alleluia!
PRAYER TO SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL
O holy and great Archangel of God Michael, who standest before the super-substantial Trinity, and art placed as a watcher and keeper over the human race! Guard us by the lightning power of thy sword from all enemies visible and invisible. Be thou a guardian Angel, a wise counsellor and companion of the Christian people, bringing them enlightenment, strength, joy, and peace, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
How to Pray the Akathist: 5 Practical Rules
- Pray with Sincere Faith. Prayer must come from the depths of your heart and be offered with profound humility.
- Establish a Consistent Prayer Cycle. Believers often commit to praying the Akathist daily for 40 consecutive days to ask for help with critical life issues.
- Eliminate Distractions. Quiet your mind, turn off devices, and light a candle before the icon.
- Intercede for Others. Sincere prayer for your children, spouse, parents, or defenders carries exceptional spiritual power.
- Offer a Prayer of Thanksgiving. When your prayer is answered, remember to read a prayer of thanksgiving or perform an act of charity.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which day is dedicated to Archangel Michael?
Every Monday in the Orthodox weekly liturgical cycle is dedicated to the Holy Archangels, making it the most traditional day for his Akathist.
2. Is standing mandatory during the Akathist?
Standing is traditional to express reverence, but those who are ill, elderly, or traveling are fully permitted to read the Akathist while seated.
3. Can I pray this Akathist for soldiers?
Yes, Archangel Michael is the supreme protector of soldiers and defenders, and intercessory prayer for them holds great spiritual power.