Greensleeves
William S. Lyrics
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While Mary's man is sleeping
Whom angles greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch their king
Why lies he in such lowly place
While cows and sheep are feeding
Good christian fear for sinners here
[Chorus]
This is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angles sing
Hast hast to bring him praise
The baby son of Mary
So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh
Come peasant King to owe him
The king of kings salvation bring
That loving hearts in throne
[Chorus]
The lyrics to "Greensleeves" by William S. evoke a sense of wonder and contemplation as the audience is invited to ponder on the birth of Jesus Christ. The opening line, "What child is this laid to rest," suggests a sense of mystery and intrigue as the scene is set for the birth of Jesus. The lyrics go on to describe the setting of the birth as a "lowly place," which is contrasted with the reverence shown by the angels who sing anthems sweet. The shepherds, too, are described as watching over their king while cows and sheep are feeding. This serves to highlight the humbleness of the setting and the miraculous nature of the event.
The second verse of the song further emphasizes the theme of humility and redemption. The line, "Good Christian fear for sinners here," suggests that the birth of Christ is a pivotal moment in the history of mankind, one that provides a silent plea for salvation. The chorus of the song then declares that this child is indeed Christ the King, whom shepherds guard while angels sing. The final verse of the song encourages the listener to bring gifts of incense, gold, and myrrh to pay homage to the newborn King.
In conclusion, the lyrics of "Greensleeves" are both introspective and celebratory. They invite the listener to contemplate the wondrous birth of Christ and to appreciate the humility and selflessness that this event embodies.
Line by Line Meaning
What child is this laid to rest
Whose child is this laid to rest
While Mary's man is sleeping
While Mary's husband is sleeping
Whom angles greet with anthems sweet
Whom angels greet with sweet songs
While shepherds watch their king
While shepherds watch their king, Jesus
Why lies he in such lowly place
Why is he lying in such a humble place
While cows and sheep are feeding
While cows and sheep are grazing
Good christian fear for sinners here
Fear for sinners, Good Christians, here
A silent word is pleading
A wordless plea is being made
This is Christ the King
This is Jesus, the King of Kings
Whom shepherds guard and angles sing
Whom the shepherds protect and angels sing about
Hast hast to bring him praise
Hurry, hurry to bring Him praise
The baby son of Mary
The baby who is Mary's son
So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh
So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh as gifts
Come peasant King to owe him
Come, humble King, to pay Him homage
The king of kings salvation bring
Bring the salvation of the King of Kings
That loving hearts in throne
So that loving hearts may enthrone Him
Lyrics ยฉ DistroKid, BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: DOUGLAS E WAGNER, WILLIAM C DIX
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@danalvear7977
Thank you, Mr. Britain, for posting this lovely recording. โค
In all my years, I had only heard - and loved - the score with the Christmas carol.
Just last evening, this exact recording was played on a classical music podcast. I wondered why they were playing this carol - albeit so beautiful - at this time, and came here on YouTube to add to my favorites. The comments let on there was more than I realized, leading me to jump over to Wikipedia for the full story.
Although ashamed I had never known the details, Iโm so happy to have finally learned!
This lush pastoral rendition really opens oneโs heart and stirs deep emotions.
Iโve shed more than a few tears listening to it and am happy to now know I can enjoy it all year round!
@christinerobottom9444
I played this on a continuous loop and placed it on my wifes pillow whilst she was laid dying in hospital 6 weeks ago i miss hear dearly, I really dont know what to do im completely lost take care my angel love youโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโค
@ian-alexandersherman6218
May God be with you & yours in your time of grief, and may He keep her soul at peace
@jacka2552
Such a beautiful thing to do.
@jamesness2277
I am sorry for your loss my friend. Lots of love, hugs and prayers coming your way.
@gringoofcandamo
I'm so sorry my friend.. nothing is ever truely gone. She is with you always.
@TruthArchives
My condolences. God bless you, and your family. Be strong, and endure, until the very end. With God, all things are possible! In due time, you will see her again, in Heaven. May the Holy Spirit comfort and mend your broken heart. Never forget, God is with you! "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way." - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
@motherlandbot6837
I first heard this in a live performance at NYC's Carnegie Hall as a seven year old child, and was so moved that I cried, and could think of nothing else en route home. Sixty six years later, it remains my favorite over any guitar, lute, or vocal version.
@chriswaring5565
HOW DO YOU GET TO CARNEGIE HALL? PRACTICE
@tombarac8253
When did that happen?
@hirdavatlar
I've been looking for this melody for 20 years. When I was 5-6 years old, I had a small organ. This song was playing on the automatic music, I memorized it myself and played it on the organ. Little me was going on a trip by playing this and looking into the distance.