Laudes Domini ‎#140

140. Bethlehem Song

1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground;
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
"Fear not," said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind,
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring,
To you and all mankind.

2 "To you, in David's town this day,
Is born of David's line,
The Saviour, who is Christ, the Lord,
And this shall be the sign;
The heavenly babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid."

3 Thus spake the seraph and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels, praising God, who thus
Addressed their joyful song:
"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: Bethlehem Song
• Author: Nahum Tate
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1890
• Topic: The Lord Jesus Christ; Advent of Christ: At Birth; Christ: Advent at Birth; Christ: Saviour
• Notes: Public Domain.

Tune Information

• Name: NOEL
• Arranger: A. S. Sullivan
• Meter: C. M. D.
• Key: F Major or modal
• Notes: Public Domain.