Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Simon Bernard-Smith Lyrics
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Sweetly singing o'er the plains
And the mountains in reply
Echo back their joyus strains
Come to Bethlehem and see
(Gloria O sing Gloria)
Him whose birth the angels sing
(Gloria O sing Gloria)
Come adore on bended knee
Christ the Lord the newborn king
Gloria O Gloria in excelsis Deo (x4)
Angels we have heard on high
(Gloria O sing Gloria)
Sweetly singing o'er the plains
(Gloria O sing Gloria)
Jesus Lord of heav'n and earth
With us sing our Savior's birth
Gloria O Gloria in exelsis Deo (x8)
Alleluia
The lyrics of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" by Simon Bernard-Smith convey a deep sense of wonder and reverence towards the divine, specifically referencing the angels singing joyfully about the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The opening stanza sets the scene with the image of angels sweetly singing over the plains and the mountains echoing their joyful strains. This imagery creates a serene and celestial atmosphere, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the moment.
The repetition of the phrase "Gloria in excelsis Deo" further amplifies the exaltation and praise towards God, underscoring the angelic announcement of Christ's birth. The call to come to Bethlehem and witness the newborn King is an invitation for listeners to join in the adoration and reverence for the Messiah. The mention of bending the knee before Christ emphasizes humility and devotion, acknowledging the divine nature of the newborn King.
The lyrics highlight the unity between heaven and earth as Jesus, the Lord of heaven and earth, is celebrated, and the Savior's birth is proclaimed with joy and gratitude. The emphasis on Christ's presence with us demonstrates the belief in his closeness and connection to humanity, inviting listeners to sing along in worship and celebration. The repeated chorus of "Gloria in excelsis Deo" serves as a powerful declaration of praise and thanksgiving, echoing the angelic proclamation of the Savior's birth.
The song culminates in the triumphant declaration of "Alleluia," a universal expression of jubilation and praise. Through the poignant imagery and reverent language, the lyrics of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" convey a message of awe, adoration, and celebration of the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ, highlighting the unity between heaven and earth and inviting listeners to join in the chorus of praise and worship.
Line by Line Meaning
Angels we have heard on high
We have listened to the divine messengers above
Sweetly singing o'er the plains
Softly singing across the open fields
And the mountains in reply
Even the mountains respond
Echo back their joyus strains
Reverberate their joyful melodies
Gloria O Gloria in excelsis Deo (x4)
Glory to God in the highest
Come to Bethlehem and see
Visit Bethlehem and witness
(Gloria O sing Gloria)
(Praise God, sing praises)
Him whose birth the angels sing
The one whom the angels herald
Come adore on bended knee
Kneel down to worship
Christ the Lord the newborn king
Jesus, the newborn ruler
Angels we have heard on high
We have heard the heavenly messengers above
(Gloria O sing Gloria)
(Praise God, sing praises)
Jesus Lord of heav'n and earth
Jesus, ruler of heaven and earth
With us sing our Savior's birth
Celebrate the birth of our Savior with us
Gloria O Gloria in exelsis Deo (x8)
Glory to God in the highest (repeat)
Alleluia
Praise the Lord
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