Children's Hymnal ‎#167

167. While Humble Shepherds Watched

1 While humble shepherds watched their flocks
In Bethlehem's fields by night,
An angel sent from heaven appeared
And filled the field with light.
"Fear not!" said he, for sudden dread
Had seized each troubled mind;
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.

2 To you, in Bethlehem this day,
Is born of David's line
The Savior, who is Christ the Lord;
And this shall be the sign:
The heavenly babe you there shall find,
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swaddling bands,
And in a manger laid."

3 Thus spake the angel, and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God, and thus
Addressed their joyful song:
"All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace;
Good will is shown by heaven to men,
And never more shall cease!"

Text Information

• First Line: While humble shepherds watched their flocks
• Title: While Humble Shepherds Watched
• Author: Nahum Tate
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1957
• Topic: Songs Suitable for Juniors; Jesus' Birth; Christmas

Tune Information

• Name: [While humble shepherds watched their flocks]
• Key: e minor
• Source: English Traditional Melody
• Copyright: Music copyright. Reprinted by permission of the Oxford University Press.