Lyrics
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 lamb are feeding?
Good Christian, fear: for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
This, this is Christ, the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
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.
This, this is Christ, the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!
Song History & Meaning
Composer / Hymnodist: W. Chatterton Dix
When we gaze upon the humble manger, we are met with an astounding mystery: the almighty King of heaven choosing to draw near to us in the gentlest, most vulnerable form. 'What Child is This?' invites us to pause our busy lives and marvel at God’s boundless love made flesh. Despite His lowly surroundings, He remains the Lord of angels and the Savior of the world. Today, let us hasten to bring Him our praise, opening our hearts to welcome Christ the King into every quiet corner of our lives.
📖 Related Scripture Passages:
- Luke 2:11: “for there is born to you today, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
- Matthew 2:2: “saying, “Where is he who is born King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and have come to worship him.””
- Luke 2:14: ““Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.””