Author: Nahum Tate Hymnal: Hymnal for Church and Home #86 (1927) Meter: 8.6.8.6 First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night Lyrics: 1 While shepherds watch'd their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
2 "Fear not," said he,for mighty dread
Had seiz'd their troubled mind,
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring,
To you and all mankind.
3 "To you in David's town this day,
Is born of David's line
The Savior, who is Christ the Lord,
And this shall be the sign:
4 The heav'nly Babe you there shall find,
To human view display'd,
All meanly wrapp'd in swathing bands
And in a manger laid."
5 Thus spake the seraph and forthwith
Appear'd a shining throng
Of angels, praising God, who thus
Address'd their joyful song:
6 "All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace;
Good-will henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease." Topics: Christmas Languages: English Tune Title: [While shepherds watch'd their flocks by night]
While Shepherds Watched