“Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” is a beloved Christmas carol that has been popular for over 200 years. The song was written by Charles Wesley, one of the founders of Methodism, in 1739. The lyrics were set to music by several composers, but the most famous melody was composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1841. The song is often performed during Christmas church services, and it has become a staple of holiday music around the world.
“Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.” – This line emphasizes the message of peace and reconciliation that Jesus brings to the world. It reminds us that through his birth, God has shown mercy to sinners and offered the promise of peace on earth.
“Hark! the herald angels sing, ‘Glory to the newborn King!'” – The opening line of the song announces the good news of Jesus’ birth and the glory that he brings to the world. The use of the word “hark” is meant to grab the listener’s attention and draw them into the story.
“Mild He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die.” – This line refers to the humility of Jesus’ birth, as he “lays his glory by” to become human. It also highlights the significance of Jesus’ birth, as he came to offer eternal life to humanity.
Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!”
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th’ angelic host proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem.”
Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!”Christ, by highest heav’n adored:
Christ, the everlasting Lord;
Late in time behold him come,
Offspring of the favored one.
Veil’d in flesh, the Godhead see;
Hail, th’incarnate Deity:
Pleased, as man, with men to dwell,
Jesus, our Emmanuel!
Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!”Hail! the heav’n born Prince of peace!
Author: Charles Wesley
Hail! the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
Risen with healing in his wings
Mild he lays his glory by,
Born that man no more may die:
Born to raise the sons of earth,
Born to give them second birth.
Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!”
Overall, “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” is a powerful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and the joy that comes with celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Its lyrics offer a message of hope, peace, and reconciliation that is just as relevant today as it was over 280 years ago.