Ernst Gebhard Anschütz (28 October 1780, Suhl – 18 December 1861, Leipzig) … Read Full Bio ↴Ernst Gebhard Anschütz (28 October 1780, Suhl – 18 December 1861, Leipzig) was a German teacher, organist, poet, and composer. He is also known for his account of the death of Johann Christian Woyzeck in 1824 (see: Georg Büchner's play Woyzeck). Anschütz worked as a teacher in Leipzig for 50 years, during which he did most of his poetry and composing.

O Christmas Tree
Ernst Anschütz Lyrics

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O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree!
How are the leaves so wonderful!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
How are the leaves so wonderful!

Not only in the summertime,
But even in winter is thy prime.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,

How are thy leaves so wonderful!

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Much pleasure doth thou bring me!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Much pleasure doth thou bring me!

For every year the Christmas tree,
Brings to us all both joy and glee.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Much pleasure doth thou bring me!

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Thy candles shine out brightly!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Thy candles shine out brightly!

Each bough doth hold its tiny light,
That makes each toy to sparkle bright.

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Thy candles shine out brightly

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Ernst Anschütz's O Christmas Tree describe the wonder and beauty of the Christmas tree. The song begins by marveling at the leaves, expressing awe at their splendor. The verse continues to praise the evergreen, noting that its magnificence is not limited to the warm months. Even in the winter, the tree is at its peak. The second verse acknowledges the joy that the Christmas tree brings, noting that it is a source of pleasure for those who behold it. The final verse discusses the candles that adorn the tree, remarking on their radiance. These lights make every ornament glitter brilliantly, adding to the enchantment of the Christmas tree.

Overall, Anschütz's O Christmas Tree is a celebration of the holiday's central symbol. By extolling the beauty and joy of the evergreen, the song emphasizes the importance and significance of the tree and the holiday it is associated with. Through its lyrics, the song invites listeners to share in this wonder and merriment, making it a beloved Christmas classic.

Line by Line Meaning

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree!
Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree!

How are the leaves so wonderful!
Your leaves are absolutely stunning!

Not only in the summertime,
Your beauty is not limited to summertime,

But even in winter is thy prime.
But you shine even brighter during winter.

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree,

Much pleasure doth thou bring me!
You bring me so much joy!

For every year the Christmas tree,
Every year, the Christmas tree,

Brings to us all both joy and glee.
Brings us all great happiness and excitement.

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree,

Thy candles shine out brightly!
Your candles light up so brightly!

Each bough doth hold its tiny light,
Each branch shines with its own small light,