The Cherry-Tree Carol

"The Cherry-Tree Carol" is a traditional English Christmas carol with roots in medieval folk traditions, dating from the 15th or 16th century. It recounts an apocryphal story surrounding the Virgin Mary and Joseph during the journey to Bethlehem. According to the carol, Mary requests cherries from a tree while pregnant with Jesus, and miraculously, the tree bends down to provide fruit for her. The narrative blends biblical themes with folk storytelling, creating a charming and devotional tale of divine intervention and the sanctity of Christ’s birth.

The lyrics present Mary as humble and gentle, Joseph as protective and caring, and the miraculous bending of the cherry tree as a symbol of God’s power and favor. This miracle reinforces the sacredness of the Incarnation and the wonder that surrounds the nativity story. The carol’s combination of narrative, miracle, and moral reflection captures the imagination of listeners, particularly children, while highlighting themes of obedience, humility, and divine providence.

Musically, "The Cherry-Tree Carol" has been transmitted orally over centuries and set to various melodies. It retains the simple, lyrical qualities of folk music, making it accessible for both congregational singing and performance by smaller ensembles. The carol remains popular in English-speaking countries during the Christmas season, celebrated for its medieval charm and its ability to connect worshipers with the longstanding cultural and devotional traditions surrounding Christ’s birth.