Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
The Everly Brothers & The Boys Town Choir Lyrics

The lyrics to "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" depict the joyous proclamation of the birth of Jesus Christ, the newborn King. The song begins with the angelic hosts singing of the glory that the new-born King brings to the world. They announce that with the birth of Christ, peace and mercy will be bestowed upon the earth and that God and sinners will be reconciled. It is a call for all nations to be joyful and rise up, joining in the triumph of the heavenly skies, as they proclaim the news of Christ's birth in Bethlehem. The repetition of the line "Glory to the new-born King!" emphasizes the significance and reverence attributed to Jesus' arrival.

The second verse of the song highlights the adoration of Christ by the highest heavens and describes him as the everlasting Lord. It speaks of Christ coming into the world in the fullness of time, as the offspring of the favored one, Mary. Here, the lyrics convey the belief that Jesus, while being the Son of God, was veiled in flesh and took on the form of a human being. This concept of the Godhead being seen in human form is hailed and revered, with the word "Deity" specifically used to acknowledge Christ's divinity. The lyrics also note that Jesus willingly chose to live among humanity, demonstrating his love and empathy for mankind as our Emmanuel, or "God with us."

In the final verse, Jesus is proclaimed as the heaven-born Prince of peace. He is referred to as the Son of Righteousness, bringing light and life to all through his teachings and actions. The lyrics suggest that Jesus has risen with healing in his wings, symbolizing his power and ability to bring spiritual and emotional healing to those who follow him. The mention of laying his glory aside showcases Jesus's humility and selflessness in taking on human form. He was born so that humanity would no longer be subject to eternal death but be given the opportunity for spiritual rebirth. Once again, the angelic hosts join in singing "Glory to the new-born King!" as they celebrate the profound significance of Jesus's birth.

Overall, "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" is a hymn that focuses on the birth of Jesus and the immense joy and hope it brings to humanity. The lyrics emphasize Jesus' role as the bringer of peace, forgiveness, and salvation, noting his divine nature and his willingness to take on human form to dwell among mankind. It is a song that encourages all nations to join together in celebrating and proclaiming the glory of the newborn King.