What Child Is This?
Johnny Burt Orchestra & Chorus Lyrics

The lyrics of "What Child Is This?" by Johnny Burt Orchestra & Chorus capture the wonder and awe surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. The opening stanza sets the scene of a child lying peacefully in Mary's lap, while angels sing sweet hymns and shepherds attentively watch over them. This imagery speaks to the divine and miraculous nature of Jesus' birth, as a king resting in humble surroundings, surrounded by heavenly beings and humble shepherds. The portrayal of this child as Christ the King evokes a sense of reverence and majesty, connecting the earthly with the divine.

The repeated chorus reinforces the recognition of Jesus as the Christ, highlighting the importance of shepherds and angels in acknowledging his significance. The urgency in the lyrics, "Haste, haste, to bring Him laud," conveys the message of spreading the good news of Christ's birth and honoring him with praise. The juxtaposition of the lowly manger with the exalted status of the child within it emphasizes the universal appeal of the Christmas story, transcending social ranks and inviting all to come and worship.

The second stanza delves deeper into the mystery of the incarnation, questioning why the savior of humanity would be born in such humble circumstances, where animals like ox and ass are present. This stanza addresses the notion of divine humility and the subtle plea for sinners to pay attention to the significance of this silent yet profound moment. The imagery of the Word made flesh quietly appealing to Christians to reflect on their own actions and beliefs adds a layer of contemplation and introspection to the narrative.

The final stanza brings the story full circle, referencing the gifts of incense, gold, and myrrh traditionally brought by the Magi to honor the infant Jesus. The lyrics invite both peasants and kings to acknowledge and worship the child, emphasizing that salvation is brought by the King of kings. The act of enshrining Jesus in loving hearts signifies the spiritual transformation and recognition of his divine nature, portraying a universal call to embrace the message of Christmas with reverence and devotion. The powerful imagery and poetic language in these lyrics convey the timeless and profound significance of the birth of Christ, inviting listeners to ponder upon the mystery and beauty of this miraculous event.