The Book of Praise ‎#170

170. What star is this

1 What star is this, with beams so bright,
more lovely than the noonday light?
’Tis sent to announce a newborn King,
glad tidings of our God to bring.

2 ’Tis now fulfilled what God decreed,
“From Jacob shall a star proceed,”
and lo! the Eastern sages stand
to read in heaven the Lord’s command.

3 O Jesus, while the star of grace
impels us on to seek your face,
let not our slothful hearts refuse
the guidance of your light to use.

4 To God the Father, God the Son,
and Holy Spirit, Three-in-One,
may every tongue and nation raise
an endless song of thankful praise.

Text Information

• First Line: What star is this, with beams so bright
• Title: What star is this
• Paraphraser: Charles Coffin, 1676-1749
• Alterer (translation): John Chandler, 1806-1876
• Meter: 8 8 8 8 LM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1997
• Scripture:
  Numbers 24:17
  ;
  Matthew 2:1-12
• Topic: Canticles and Scripture Paraphrases; Church Year: Epiphany; Hymns with Doxologies; Jesus Christ: Kingship / Reign
• Source: Latin; Tr.: Hymns Ancient and Modern, 1861,alt.
• Copyright: Public Domain

Tune Information

• Name: PUER NOBIS
• Adapter: Michael Praetorius, 1571-1621
• Harmonizer: G. R. Woodward, 1848-1935
• Meter: 8 8 8 8 LM
• Key: D Major
• Source: 15th-century carol melody; Pie Cantiones 1582
• Copyright: Harmony © A. R. Mowbray and Co., Ltd. (an imprint of Cassell plc) from The Cowley Carol Book