Angels We Have Heard on High is a timeless Christmas carol that has been sung by generations of people all over the world. This beautiful song is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the arrival of the angels who announced the good news to the shepherds in the fields. The song is known for its uplifting melody, joyful lyrics, and powerful message of hope and peace.
History and Origin of the Carol
The origins of Angels We Have Heard on High can be traced back to France in the 16th century. The song was first published in a French hymnal in 1855 and was titled “Les Anges dans nos Campagnes.” The song quickly became popular in France and was soon adopted by other countries, including the United States, where it became a staple of Christmas carol collections.
The melody of Angels We Have Heard on High has been adapted over the years, with different versions appearing in different countries. The original melody is believed to have come from a French folk song, and the modern melody used in most English-speaking countries is a variation of this original tune.
Lyrics and Meaning
The lyrics of Angels We Have Heard on High are a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the arrival of the angels who announced the good news to the shepherds in the fields. The song tells the story of the shepherds who were watching over their flocks when they heard the angels singing and proclaiming the birth of the Savior.
Gloria in excelsis Deo
Gloria in excelsis Deo
These lyrics are a Latin phrase meaning “Glory to God in the highest,” and they are the words that the angels sang when they announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds.
Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heavenly song?
These lyrics reflect the wonder and amazement of the shepherds as they heard the angels singing and proclaiming the birth of the Savior. The shepherds are filled with joy and excitement, and they ask the angels to tell them what the good news is.
Come to Bethlehem and see
Him whose birth the angels sing;
Come, adore on bended knee,
Christ, the Lord, the newborn King.
These lyrics invite the listener to come to Bethlehem and see the baby Jesus, who was born to be the Lord and King of all people. The song encourages us to come and worship the newborn King, who came to bring peace, hope, and salvation to the world.
Gloria in excelsis Deo
Gloria in excelsis Deo
The repetition of the Latin phrase “Gloria in excelsis Deo” at the end of the song reinforces the message of the song, which is that the birth of Jesus is a cause for celebration and rejoicing. The phrase is a declaration of the glory and majesty of God, who has sent His son to be the Savior of the world.
