Hymnal for Church and Home (2nd ed.) ‎#86

86. While Shepherds Watched

1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.

2 "Fear not," said he--for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind--
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.

3 "To you, in David's town this day,
Is born of David's line
The Savior, who is Christ the Lord,
And this shall be the sign--

4 "The heavenly Babe you there shall find,
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid."

5 Thus spake the seraph--and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels, praising God, who thus
Addressed their joyful song:--

6 "All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace:
Good-will, henceforth from heaven to men,
Begin and never cease."

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
• Title: While Shepherds Watched
• Author: Nahum Tate (1702)
• Meter: C. M.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1928
• Topic: Christmas

Tune Information

(No tune information)