Journeysongs (3rd ed.) ‎#330

330. 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]

Text Information

• First Line: What child is this, who, laid to rest
• Title: What Child Is This
• Author: William C. Dix, 1837-1898
• Meter: 87 87 with refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2012
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:6-18
  ;
  Matthew 2:1-11
• Topic: Musical Style: Quodlibet (Counter-Melody); The Liturgical Year: Christmas (Days of); The Liturgical Year: Mary, the Holy Mother of God; The Liturgical Year: The Epiphany of the Lord; The Liturgical Year: The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
• Source: Bramley and Stainer's Christmas Carols New and Old, 1871

Tune Information

• Name: GREENSLEEVES
• Arranger: John Stainer, 1840-1901
• Meter: 87 87 with refrain
• Key: e minor or modal
• Source: Trad. English Melody, 16th cent.; Bramley and Stainer's Christmas Carols New and Old, 1871