59: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks


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

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,
And this shall be the sign.

4 "The heavenly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All humbly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid,
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,
Addressed their joyful song:

6 "All glory be to God on high,
And to the Earth be peace;
Good will to all from highest heaven
Begin and never cease!
Begin and never cease!"

Text information
First Line:While shepherds watched their flocks by night
Title:While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Author:Nahum Tate (1700; alt. 1987)
Meter:CM with repeat
Scripture:Luke 2:10-14
Topic:Jesus Christ | Birth; Christmas; Jesus Christ | Incarnation
Language:English
Tune information
Tune name:CHRISTMAS
Composer:George Frederick Handel (1728)
Arranger:Lowell Mason (1821)
Meter:CM with repeat
Key:D Major

Media
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