The Hymnal for Worship and Celebration ‎#137

137. 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
• Refrain First Line: This, this is Christ the King
• Meter: 8.7.8.7. with Refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1986
• Topic: Christ: Lordship; Jesus Our Savior : His Birth

Tune Information

• Name: GREENSLEEVES
• Meter: 8.7.8.7. with Refrain
• Key: e minor
• Source: Traditional English melody, 16th century