The Hymnbook ‎#159

159. 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?

Refrain:
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. [Refrain]

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. [Refrain]

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: What Child is this, who, laid to rest
• Title: What Child is This
• Author: William C. Dix (1837-1898)
• Refrain First Line: This, this is Christ the King
• Meter: 8. 7. 8. 7. with Refrain
• Publication Date: 1955
• Scripture:
  Matthew 2:11
  ;
  Luke 2:7-14
• Topic: Christ: Birth and Infancy; Christ: King; Jesus Christ: His Birth

Tune Information

• Name: GREENSLEEVES
• Meter: 8. 7. 8. 7. with Refrain
• Key: e minor
• Source: English melody; Probably 16th century