What Child is this - Hymn with Lyrics

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!

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.[Chorus]

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.[Chorus]

Scripture; Isaiah 1:3; Matthew 2:1-12; Mark 15:16-41; Luke 1:3

The hymn "What Child Is This?" was written in 1865 by William Chatterton Dix. Dix, an English hymnist, composed the lyrics to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ. The music is based on the traditional English folk tune Greensleeves, which had been popular for centuries.

The hymn was first published in 1871 and has since become a beloved Christmas carol, known for its poignant lyrics and association with the nativity of Christ. The combination of Dix's thoughtful lyrics and the well-known melody of Greensleeves has made "What Child Is This?" a favorite during the Christmas season.