Ding Dong! Merrily On High
Choir and Orchestra Lyrics

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Ding dong merrily on high
In heav'n the bells are ringing
Ding dong, verily the sky
Is riv'n with angel singing
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis

E'en so here below, below

Let steeple bells be swungen
And "Io, io, io!"
By priest and people sungen
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis

Pray you, dutifully prime
Your matin chime, ye ringers
May you beautifully rime
Your evetime song, ye singers

Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis

Overall Meaning

The song “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” is a playful and joyful Christmas carol. The first verse sets the scene with the heavenly bells ringing, and the sky filled with angelic singing. This sets a tone of celebration as the piece continues. The chorus brings the repetition of the phrase “Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis.” “Gloria” means “glory to God,” while “Hosanna” is often translated as “save us now,” but it can also mean “praise” or “worship.” The use of these words throughout the song aims to glorify God and celebrate the birth of Jesus.

In the second verse, the carol brings attention to the bells in earthly church steeples. This provides a connection between the heavenly and earthly realms and emphasizes the joining of people in worship. The phrase “Io, io, io!” is an exclamation of joy, often used to signify victory, and is included to express the joy felt during Christmas time.

The third verse is a prayer and a call to action, encouraging both bell-ringers and singers to perform their duties dutifully and beautifully. The purpose of the prayer is to ensure that the joy felt during Christmas is celebrated to the fullest extent with the ringing of bells and the singing of beautiful songs in praise of God.

Line by Line Meaning

Ding dong merrily on high
The bells are ringing joyfully and loudly

In heav'n the bells are ringing
The bells can even be heard in heaven

Ding dong, verily the sky
The sky resounds with the harmonious sound of the bells

Is riv'n with angel singing
The angels sing in harmony with the bells, creating a beautiful sound

Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
The angels are singing praises to God, expressing their joy and gratitude

E'en so here below, below
On earth, we can also join in the merriment and celebration

Let steeple bells be swungen
The church bells should be rung with enthusiasm and energy

And "Io, io, io!"
As the bells ring, the priests and people should sing out in excitement

By priest and people sungen
Both clergy and congregation should join in singing praises

Pray you, dutifully prime
The bellringers are asked to prepare and tune the bells carefully

Your matin chime, ye ringers
These bells will be rung in the morning as a call to prayer

May you beautifully rime
The singers are requested to harmonize their voices beautifully

Your evetime song, ye singers
Later in the day, the church will come alive with the sound of song and prayer

Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis
All participants are reminded to focus on singing praises that give all honor and glory to God

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave, Peermusic Publishing, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Traditional

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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