330. 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, 1837-1898
Meter: 87 87 with refrain
Language: English
Publication Date: 2012
Scripture: ;
Topic: Musical Style: Quodlibet (Counter-Melody); The Liturgical Year: Christmas (Days of); The Liturgical Year: Mary, the Holy Mother of God (2 more...)
Source: Bramley and Stainer's Christmas Carols New and Old, 1871
Tune Information
Name: GREENSLEEVES
Arranger: John Stainer, 1840-1901
Meter: 87 87 with refrain
Key: e minor or modal
Source: Trad. English Melody, 16th cent.; Bramley and Stainer's Christmas Carols New and Old, 1871



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