What Child is This?
"What Child is This?" was written by William Chatterton Dix in 1865.
Later, three verses were taken from the original song and set to the tune of "Greensleeves". This is the carol we sing today.
What Child is This?
Christmas Carol
1. What child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping,
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The babe, the son of Mary!
2. Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear: for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce him through,
The Cross be borne for me, for you;
Hail, hail the Word Made Flesh,
The babe, the son of Mary!
3. So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh;
Come, peasant, king, to own Him!
The King of Kings salvation brings;
Let loving hearts enthrone Him!
Raise, raise the song on high!
The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy! joy! for Christ is born,
The babe, the son of Mary!
Many thanks to Sara Stevens for sharing her recording of this song with us! You can visit Sara's site here and check out Sara's itunes account to purchase her music.
Thanks and Acknowledgements
Image: Madonna and Child, Andrea Mantegna, Italy, ca. 1470. Image was edited by Lisa.
