




         What Child Is This
          William Dix, 1865







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.
This, this is Christ, the King, 
   Whom shepherds guard and angels sing.
Haste, haste to bring Him laud, 
   the Babe, the Son of Mary.





Why lies He in such mean estate 
   where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christians fear for sinners hear 
   the silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spears shall pierce Him through; 
   the cross be borne for me, for you.
Hail, hail, the Word made flesh, 
   the Babe, the Son of Mary.





So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh. 
   Come peasant, King to own Him.
The King of kings salvation brings, 
   let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise the song on high, 
   the Virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy, for Christ is born, 
   the Babe, the Son of Mary.




