Singing the Living Tradition ‎#228

228. Once in Royal David's City

1 Once in royal David's city
stood a lowly cattle shed,
where a mother laid her baby
in a manger for his bed;
so may we when lie turns hard
find in love our stay and guard.

2 Shepherds came to see this wonder,
and to kneel in holy awe
at that lowly stable manger
where the infant lay on straw;
so may we this happy morn
honor every child that's born.

3 From afar three magi journeyed
to that stable rude and bare,
to pay homage to the infant,
offering gifts both rich and rare;
so may we our gifts bestow,
whether we be high or low.

4 In that happy Christmas spirit,
hear the angels from on high
sing their ancient salutations:
joy's a gift you cannot buy.
So may we, with heart that sings,
share the truth this season brings.

Text Information

• First Line: Once in royal David's city
• Title: Once in Royal David's City
• Alterer: Carl G. Seaburg, 1932-
• Author: Mrs. C. F. Alexander
• Meter: 8.7.8.7.7.7.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1993
• Topic: Jewish and Christian Teachings: Christmas

Tune Information

• Name: IRBY
• Composer: Henry John Gauntlett, 1805-1876
• Harmonizer: Arthur Henry Mann, 1850-1929
• Meter: 8.7.8.7.7.7.
• Key: F Major or modal
• Copyright: Harm. © 1957, renewed 1985 Novello & Co., Ltd.
• Notes: Now Public Domain