Catholic Book of Worship III ‎#349

349. What Star Is This

1 What star is this, with beams so bright,
More lovely than the noonday light?
’Tis sent to announce a newborn king,
Glad tidings of our God to bring.
Alleluia, alleluia!

2 ’Tis now fulfilled what God decreed:
“From Jacob shall a star proceed."
And lo! the eastern sages stand,
To read in heav'n the Lord’s command.
Alleluia, alleluia!

3 O Jesus, while the star of grace
Now draws us on to seek your face,
Let not our slothful hearts refuse
The guidance of your light to use.
Alleluia, alleluia!

4 To God, Creator, heav'nly light,
To Christ, revealed in earthly night,
To God, the Spirit blest, we raise
An endless song of thankful praise.
Alleluia, alleluia!

Text Information

• First Line: What star is this, with beams so bright
• Title: What Star Is This
• Latin Title: Quem stella sole pulchrior
• Author: Charles Coffin, 1676-1749
• Translator: John Chandler, 1806-76 (alt.)
• Meter: 88 88 8
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1994
• Scripture:
  Numbers 24:17
  ;
  Matthew 2:1-12
• Topic: Epiphany; Light

Tune Information

• Name: THE CHILD JESUS
• Meter: 88 88 8
• Key: G Major
• Source: Maintzisch Gesangbuch, 1661