380: 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 |
| Meter: | 8 7 8 7 with refrain |
| Scripture: | Matthew 2:11; Luke 2:6-18 |
| Topic: | Seasons and Feasts | Christmas Season; Seasons and Feasts | Holy Family; Seasons and Feasts | Mary, Mother of God; Seasons and Feasts | Epiphany; Giving; Offering |
| Language: | English |
| Refrain First Line: | This, this is Christ the King |
| Tune information | |
|---|---|
| Tune name: | GREENSLEEVES |
| Harmonizer: | John Stainer, 1840-1901 |
| Meter: | 8 7 8 7 with refrain |
| Key: | e minor |
| Source: | English melody, 16th C. |
