281. 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: 1997
Topic: Christ: Birth
Tune Information
Name: GREENSLEEVES
Meter: 8.7.8.7. with Refrain
Key: e minor
Source: Traditional English melody, 16th century



Media
More media are available on the text authority and tune authority pages.

Suggestions or corrections? Contact us