Hymns of the Lutheran Church

67 What Child Is This

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 now are feeding? Good Christians, fear, for sinners here The silent Word is pleading. Nails, spear shall pierce him through; The cross he'll bear 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!

Text Information

Author
William C. Dix, 1837-98, alt.

Tune Information

Name
GREENSLEEVES
Meter
87 87 68 67
Source
English ballad, 16th century