114. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around,
And glory shone around.

2 "Fear not!" said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind;
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind,
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,
And this shall be the sign:"

4 "The heav'nly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid,
And in a manger laid."

5 Thus spoke the seraph, and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God, who thus
Addressed their joyful song:

6 "All glory be to God on high
And to the earth be peace;
Goodwill henceforth from heav'n to men
Begin and never cease,
Begin and never cease!"

Text Information
First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Author: Nahum Tate, 1652-1715
Meter: CM with Repeat
Language: English
Publication Date: 2007
Scripture:
Topic: Christmas; Jesus Christ; Shepherd
Tune Information
Name: CHRISTMAS
Composer: George Frideric Handel, 1685-1759
Meter: CM with Repeat
Key: C Major
Source: Weyman's Melodia Sacra, 1815



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

Suggestions or corrections? Contact us