For more than fourteen centuries, the soaring hymns of Yared have carried the prayers of the Ethiopian Church from the highlands of Aksum to congregations around the world. This modern-English edition of The Shepherd's Hymnary brings the shepherd-composer's beloved songs into clear, inviting language, preserving their depth, reverence, and quiet splendor. Here are the chants of Christmas dawn and the Jordan's waters at Epiphany, the somber vigils of Lent, the laments of Holy Week, the bursting joy of the Resurrection, and the gentle prayers for the departed. Readers will meet the three sacred modes of Ge'ez, Izil, and Araray, walk the seasons of the church year, and glimpse the vision that tradition says first opened a shepherd boy's heart to heaven. Illuminating chapter notes, reflective passages, and a glossary make the wisdom of Yared accessible to seekers, scholars, and lovers of ancient Christian poetry alike. Part of The World Scriptures Library.