I Saw Three Ships
Cathedral Choir Lyrics
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On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
I saw three ships come sailing in
On Christmas Day in the morning
And what was in those ships all three
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day?
And what was in those ships all three
On Christmas Day in the morning?
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
Mary mild and Christ were there
On Christmas Day in the morning
And all the bells on earth did ring
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
And all the bells on earth did ring
On Christmas Day in the morning
And all the Angels in Heav'n did sing
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
And all the Angels in Heav'n did sing
On Christmas Day in the morning
Then let us all rejoice again
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
Then let us all rejoice again
On Christmas Day in the morning!
The song "I Saw Three Ships" is a traditional Christmas carol that has roots dating back to the 17th century. The lyrics describe the sighting of three ships sailing in on Christmas morning and speculate about what could have been on board. The song then reveals that Mary and Christ were on board, and that the bells on earth and angels in heaven celebrated their arrival with song and merriment.
The first stanza sets the scene and builds anticipation for the arrival of these mysterious ships. The repetition of the phrase "on Christmas Day" emphasizes the significance of this day and heightens the anticipation. The second stanza poses the question of what is on board the ships, adding to the sense of intrigue. The third stanza then reveals that the ships are carrying Mary and Christ, which brings a sense of wonder and awe to the song.
The final stanzas describe the celebration that accompanies this monumental arrival. The ringing of the bells and singing of the angels indicate a joyous, celebratory atmosphere. The final stanza invites the listener to rejoice as well, emphasizing the communal aspect of a holiday celebration.
Overall, "I Saw Three Ships" is a simple but powerful song that captures the magic and wonder of the Christmas season. The imagery of ships sailing in on a peaceful Christmas morning with important passengers on board captures the imagination and inspires a sense of awe and wonder.
Line by Line Meaning
I saw three ships come sailing in
I witnessed the arrival of three ships sailing towards the shore
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
It happened on the day of the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ
And what was in those ships all three
The purpose of these ships and what they carried was a mystery
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day?
On the very day that Jesus was born
Mary mild and Christ were there
The Virgin Mary and baby Jesus were present
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
On the day that reminds us of the birth of Christ
Mary mild and Christ were there
Mother Mary and the baby Jesus were on board the ships
On Christmas Day in the morning
On the day that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, in the early hours of the morning
And all the bells on earth did ring
The loud ringing of church bells could be heard all around
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
On the day of Christmas
And all the bells on earth did ring
The ringing of the bells could be heard across the planet
On Christmas Day in the morning
In the dawn of the day of the birth of Christ
And all the Angels in Heav'n did sing
The Angels rejoiced and sang hymns of praise
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
On the day that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ
And all the Angels in Heav'n did sing
The Angels of Heaven sang songs of joy and gladness
On Christmas Day in the morning
Early in the morning of the day Jesus Christ was born
Then let us all rejoice again
Now, Join me in celebration with rejoicing
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day
On this day set apart for celebrating Christ’s birth
Then let us all rejoice again
Let us revel in the happiness of The Savior's birth
On Christmas Day in the morning!
In the morning of the birthday of Jesus Christ - let us be filled with joy!
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Capitol CMG Publishing, Peermusic Publishing, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Edith Bergdahl, Nat King Cole, Traditional
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind