Byzantine Hymnody refers to the sacred music tradition of the Byzantine Empire, which flourished from the 4th to the 15th centuries. This musical form is characterized by its use of modal scales and intricate melodies, often performed in the context of Eastern Orthodox Christian worship. Hymns were typically sung in Greek and were integral to the liturgical services, enhancing the spiritual experience of the congregation. The hymns often draw from the rich theological and poetic heritage of the Byzantine culture, with texts composed by notable figures such as St. John of Damascus and St. Romanos the Melodist. Byzantine Hymnody remains influential in contemporary Orthodox Christian worship, preserving the historical and spiritual legacy of the Byzantine Empire.