The traditional Christmas carol "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a beloved hymn that has been sung for centuries. The lyrics, written by Charles Wesley in 1739, are a powerful expression of the joy and wonder of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Origins and History
The song was originally titled “Hymn for Christmas-Day” and was published in Wesley’s collection of hymns called “Hymns and Sacred Poems”. The melody, however, was not the familiar tune we know today, but rather a slower and more solemn melody. It wasn’t until 1753 that the song was paired with the tune “Cristmas”, which was composed by George Whitefield, a British Anglican cleric and evangelist.
Lyrics and Meaning
The lyrics of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” are a beautiful expression of the Christian faith, with a focus on the birth of Jesus Christ and the significance of this event. The song begins with the iconic lines:
“Hark! The herald angels sing, ‘Glory to the newborn King!’”. These words set the tone for the rest of the song, which goes on to describe the joy and wonder of the angels as they announce the birth of Jesus.
The lyrics are as follows:
- Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!”
- Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.
- Joyful, all ye nations, rise, Join the triumph of the skies;
- With th’ angelic host proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem!”
- Christ, by highest heaven adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord!
- Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; Hail th’ incarnate Deity,
- Pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus our Emmanuel.
- Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!”
These lyrics have been translated into many languages and are sung by Christians all around the world during the Christmas season.
| Verse | Lyrics |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hark! The herald angels sing, "Glory to the newborn King!" |
| 2 | Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled. |
| 3 | Joyful, all ye nations, rise, Join the triumph of the skies; |
| 4 | With th' angelic host proclaim, "Christ is born in Bethlehem!" |
Key Points
- The song "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" was written by Charles Wesley in 1739.
- The melody was originally composed by George Whitefield in 1753.
- The lyrics are a powerful expression of the Christian faith, with a focus on the birth of Jesus Christ.
- The song is sung by Christians all around the world during the Christmas season.
- The lyrics have been translated into many languages.
Impact and Legacy
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” has had a significant impact on Christian worship and culture. The song has been translated into many languages and is sung by Christians all around the world during the Christmas season. The song’s message of joy, peace, and reconciliation continues to inspire and uplift people to this day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is a beloved Christmas carol that has been sung for centuries. The lyrics, written by Charles Wesley, are a powerful expression of the Christian faith, with a focus on the birth of Jesus Christ and the significance of this event. The song’s message of joy, peace, and reconciliation continues to inspire and uplift people to this day.
What is the origin of the song “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”?
+The song “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” was written by Charles Wesley in 1739 and was originally titled “Hymn for Christmas-Day”.
Who composed the melody for “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”?
+The melody for “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” was composed by George Whitefield in 1753.
What is the message of the song “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”?
+The song “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is a powerful expression of the Christian faith, with a focus on the birth of Jesus Christ and the significance of this event. The song’s message of joy, peace, and reconciliation continues to inspire and uplift people to this day.
