What Child Is This?
Philadelphia Orchestra And Chorus Lyrics

In the classic Christmas carol "What Child Is This," the lyrics evoke a scene of tranquility and awe as the newborn child, identified as Christ the King, peacefully rests in Mary's arms. The initial verse sets the stage with an air of mystery and wonder, pondering the identity of this infant who receives the praises of angels and the vigilant attention of shepherds in a humble setting.

The chorus serves as a proclamation of the child’s significance, affirming that this indeed is Christ the King, deserving of reverence and adoration. The urgency in the call to "haste" in bringing praise to the infant underscores the importance and majesty of the moment, emphasizing the divine nature of the child and the humble yet profound circumstances of his birth.

The following verse delves deeper into the paradoxical nature of Christ’s arrival, questioning why the King of kings would be born in such a lowly place, surrounded by animals. This juxtaposition of royalty and humility prompts a reflection on the profound implications of Christ's earthly presence, particularly in extending salvation to sinners and embodying a message of redemption and grace.

As the chorus repeats, the carol concludes with a call to bring gifts of incense, gold, and myrrh – symbolic offerings fit for a monarch yet extended to a newborn in a manger. The invitation is extended to individuals of all stations, from peasants to kings, to acknowledge and honor the child as the bringer of salvation and to enthrone him in their hearts with love and devotion. Overall, "What Child Is This" is a poignant reflection on the mystery and magnificence of the incarnation, inviting listeners to contemplate the profound significance of the birth of Christ.