what child is this who laid to rest

on mary's lap is sleep

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 lives he in such mean estate

where ox and ass are feeding

good christians fear for sinners here

the silent word is leading nails

fear shall pierce him through

the cross be born 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