Gather Comprehensive ‎#380

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, 1827-1898
• Refrain First Line: This, this is Christ the King
• Meter: 8 7 8 7 with refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1994
• Scripture:
  Matthew 2:11
  ;
  Luke 2:6-18
• Topic: Seasons and Feasts: Epiphany

Tune Information

• Name: GREENSLEEVES
• Harmonizer: John Stainer, 1840-1901
• Meter: 8 7 8 7 with refrain
• Key: e minor
• Source: English melody, 16th C.