Zither Carol

By Traditional English Carol

Lyrics

Girls and boys, leave your toys. make no noise,
Kneel at His crib and worship Him.
At Thy shrine, Child divine, we are Thine,
Our Saviour's here.

(Chorus)
"Hallelujah!" the church bells ring,
"Hallelujah!" the angels sing,
"Hallelujah!" from ev'rything.
All must draw near.

On that day - far away - Jesus lay,
Angels were wathcing round His head,
Holy Child - Mother mild - undefiled,
We sing Thy praise.

Shepherds came - at the fame - of Thy name,
Angels their guide to Bethlehem.
In that place - saw Thy face - filled with grace,
Stood at Thy door.

Wise men too - haste to do - homage new,
Gold, Myrrh and Frankincense they bring.
As 'twas said - starlight led - to Thy bed,
Bending their knee.

Oh, that we - all might be - good as He,
Spotless with God in Unity.
Saviour dear - ever near - with us here
Since life began.

Bible Reference

Luke 2:8–14

About This Hymn

"Zither Carol – Version 1" is an English translation by Theodore Baker of the traditional German carol Joseph, lieber Joseph mein. Baker, a renowned musicologist and translator, rendered the German text into English in the late 19th century, preserving the carol's original sentiment and melody. The carol is characterized by its gentle, lullaby-like quality, reflecting the peacefulness of the Nativity scene.

The lyrics of the carol express the Virgin Mary's tender affection for the newborn Jesus, highlighting the serene and holy atmosphere surrounding His birth. The repeated refrain, "Joseph, dear Joseph mine," emphasizes the intimate and familial bond between Mary, Joseph, and the infant Christ. The melody, often accompanied by the soft tones of a zither, enhances the lullaby feel, making it a favorite for Christmas Eve services and intimate gatherings.