What Child is This is a popular Christmas carol that has been sung for centuries during the festive season. The lyrics are a meditation on the birth of Jesus and the events surrounding it. The song reflects on the significance of the birth of the Christ child and its impact on the world. This carol is a beautiful representation of the Christmas story and the hope that it brings. In this article, we will delve into the lyrics of What Child is This and explore their meaning and significance.
Verse 1: What Child is This
The first verse of the song asks the question, “What Child is This?” The lyrics suggest that the singer is encountering the Christ child for the first time and is struck by his beauty and innocence. The verse is a declaration of awe at the sight of the newborn baby and a recognition of his divinity.
Verse 2: Laid He Here
The second verse focuses on the location where the baby is lying. The lyrics describe the place as being simple and humble, with no luxurious surroundings or adornments. This is in stark contrast to the grandeur that was often associated with royalty at the time. The verse highlights the fact that the Christ child was born into poverty, reflecting his humility and the fact that he came to earth to serve others.
Verse 3: Swaddled Clothes
The third verse focuses on the clothes that the baby is wearing. The lyrics describe the swaddled clothes as being a symbol of the love and care that the baby received from his mother. The swaddling clothes also suggest that the baby was being protected from the harsh realities of the world. This verse emphasizes the tenderness and compassion of the Christ child, even from a young age.
Verse 4: Tribute Bring
The fourth verse shifts the focus from the Christ child to the singer, who is now addressing the people around him. The lyrics invite the people to come forward and offer their tribute to the baby. The verse is a call to action, urging people to acknowledge the significance of the birth of Jesus and to offer their gifts and love to him.
Verse 5: King of Kings
The final verse declares the Christ child to be the “King of Kings.” The lyrics emphasize the divinity of the baby and his role as the ruler of all nations. The verse is a declaration of faith and a recognition of the power and authority of Jesus.
What Child Is This?
Who lay to rest
On Mary’s lap is sleeping
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping
Come peasant king to own him
The King of Kings salvation brings
Let loving hearts enthrone him
Haste, haste to bring him laud
The Babe, the Son of Mary
His mother sings a lullaby
Joy, oh joy for Christ is born
The Babe, the son of Mary
Haste, haste to bring him laud
The Babe, the Son of Mary
Is this (is this)
Who lay (who lay)
To rest (to rest)
On Mary’s lap (lap)
On Mary’s lap he is sleeping
Haste, haste to bring him laud
The Babe
The Son
Of Mary
The Babe, the Son of Mary
The Son of Mary
Conclusion:
What Child is This is a beautiful and powerful carol that has been sung for centuries during the Christmas season. The lyrics of the song are a meditation on the birth of Jesus and the events surrounding it. The song reflects on the significance of the birth of the Christ child and its impact on the world. Through the lyrics, we can see the awe and reverence that people felt towards the baby Jesus, and the hope and joy that his birth brought to the world. Whether we sing the carol or simply listen to its beautiful melody, What Child is This is a reminder of the love and compassion that the Christ child brings to our lives.
