While Shepherds Watched

While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
"Fear not," said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind,
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind."

To you, in David's town this day,
Is born of David's line
The Savior who is Christ the Lord,
And this shall be the sign:
The heavenly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid."

Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God and thus
Addressed their joyful song:
"All glory be to God on high
And on the earth be peace,
Goodwill henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease."

MIDI: www.hymnsite.com.org

Lyrics can be printed by using the File->Print Preview Commands. They will print in black ink with no images.

Historical note from www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com

Traditional ascribed to Irish-born Nahum Tate (1652-1715), this paraphrase of Luke 2:8-14 is believed by many to be among the better carol texts in the English language. It was first published in Tate and Brady's Supplement (1700) to their New Versions of the Psalms of David. It was the first, and for 82 years the only Christmas hymn permitted to be used in Anglican churches. Tate was named poet laureate of England in 1692.