Stille Nacht
Hape Kerkeling Lyrics


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Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht,
Alles schläft, einsam wacht
Nur das traute, hochheilige Paar.
Holder Knabe im lockigen Haar,
Schlaf' in himmlischer Ruh',
Schlaf' in himmlischer Ruh'!




Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Hape Kerkeling's song "Stille Nacht" describe a peaceful and holy night, where everything is asleep except for a beloved and sacred couple. The description of the "hochheilige Paar" (sacred couple) likely refers to Joseph and Mary, the parents of Jesus Christ, who, according to Christian tradition, were visited by angels and shepherds on the night that Jesus was born. The song goes on to describe a "Holder Knabe" (meaning "lovely boy"), likely referring to Jesus himself, with curly hair. The final line urges the boy to rest in heavenly peace.


The song as a whole captures the sense of awe, wonder, and reverence that is often associated with the Christmas season. It speaks to the idea that, even in the midst of turmoil and chaos, there is a sense of peace and tranquility that can be found in the love and sacredness of the holiday.


Line by Line Meaning

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht,
Silent night, holy night,


Alles schläft, einsam wacht
Everyone is sleeping, only one watches alone


Nur das traute, hochheilige Paar.
Only the dear, holy couple.


Holder Knabe im lockigen Haar,
Gentle boy with curled hair,


Schlaf' in himmlischer Ruh',
Sleep in heavenly peace,


Schlaf' in himmlischer Ruh'!
Sleep in heavenly peace!




Writer(s): Traditional, Jim Brickman

Contributed by Scarlett V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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