Chaldean Monastery of Our Lady of Seeds, Shrine of the Holy Family , Jabal Alqōš

(1-5) O Great Priest, compassionate King and Saviour of creatures, have mercy over Ēlīša‛ the Priest, Superior of monasteries. With the group of the followers of (St.) Anthony, greatest among the monks, and the crowd of the followers of (St.) Pachom, guide of the anchorites, count this Abbot of later times. He is praiseworthy on account of his deeds among the ranks of the ascetics, for he fulfilled his vows righteously in this way of life, becoming an example and a role model for those who took vows and for the novice. The death of the righteous ones is honourable in the eyes of the Lord. Because they gave up the world out of love for him, they were saved by his own death, and their sins were removed by his own blood. They crucified their bodies and suffered but not in vain, since they rest today in the quarters promised to them by the True One, the Lord of the righteous ones, who does not lie. (6-10) Today the Upper Monastery and the Lower one are sad, and the eyes of the Brothers who are in them shed tears, for their Superior, the shepherd who used to lead them with a serene heart, is separated from them. Now he begs on their behalf before the heavenly throne, so that they may reach gmīrūtā (=perfection) which is required from them. Blessed are you, and blessed are our Superiors who preceded you in this position, and who were—like you—our guides with all humility, (like) ‛Ammānū’ēl of blessed memory, who served the Son of El in a wonderful manner. Both of you bore the yoke of the Source of Life, so that all the Brothers may imitate your monastic conduct. Our Father, do not be saddened that you are separated from your sheep, for this was formerly the will of your Lord. On the anniversary of your death, we will perform your commemoration, (11) but you, remember us mercifully before your Lord. In the last line of this stanza, the year of your death is written: O Ēlīša‛, the righteous Priest: Look! Your Lord called (you)!