African American Heritage Hymnal ‎#220

220. 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 low 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]

Text Information

• First Line: What child is this, who, laid to rest
• Title: What Child is This
• Author: William C. Dix, 1827-1898
• Refrain First Line: This, this is Christ the King
• Meter: 8 7 8 7 with refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2001
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:34
• Topic: Worship and Adoration

Tune Information

• Name: GREENSLEVES
• Harmonizer: John Stainer, 1840-1901
• Meter: 8 7 8 7 with refrain
• Key: e minor
• Source: English melody, 16th C.