Worship (3rd ed.) ‎#411

411. 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: 1986
• Scripture:
  Matthew 2:11
  ;
  Luke 2:6-18
• Topic: Epiphany; Christmas Season; Holy Family

Tune Information

• Name: GREENSLEEVES
• Harmonizer: John Stainer, 18401-910
• Meter: 8 7 8 7 with refrain
• Key: e minor
• Source: English Melody, 16th Ce.