Antiphona 3

Matthew 25:6 records the midnight cry announcing the bridegroom's arrival. 'Media nocte' (at midnight) indicates unexpected timing - the darkest hour, when vigilance is most difficult. The passive 'clamor factus est' (a cry was made) suggests angelic announcement. The double imperative 'exite obviam ei' (go forth to meet him) requires action - the virgins cannot remain sleeping. At Vespers, as evening darkness approaches midnight, this antiphon warns that the Bridegroom's coming requires constant readiness - the virgin martyr was found watching and went forth to meet Christ in death.