What Child Is This
Words and music by William C. Dix · Greensleeves · 1865
Key of Em · 84 BPM · 3/4 · Christmas,Adoration · Matthew 2:11
Verse 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?
Chorus
This, this is Christ the King,
whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
haste, haste to bring him laud,
the babe, the son of Mary.
Verse 2
Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christians,
fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Verse 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.
Public domain in the United States (best-effort). Free for every use, including commercial — no license needed. Other countries may differ.