God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen is a classic Christmas carol that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its rich history and beautiful melody have made it a staple of the holiday season. Here, we'll delve into the history of the song, its meaning, and provide you with printable lyrics.
History of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
The origins of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen are shrouded in mystery. However, it is believed to have originated in England in the 16th or 17th century. The song's melody is thought to have been inspired by a traditional English folk tune, while the lyrics are believed to have been written by an unknown author.
The song's earliest known publication was in 1833, when it was included in a collection of Christmas carols called "Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern" by William Sandys. However, it's likely that the song was sung for many years before its publication.
Meaning of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
The lyrics of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen are often misunderstood, with many people believing that the song is simply a cheerful Christmas carol. However, the song's meaning is actually much deeper.
The song's title, "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," is often translated as "God keep you merry, gentlemen." However, the phrase "God rest ye" is an old English way of saying "God keep you" or "God preserve you." The song is actually a prayer for God's protection and peace during the Christmas season.
The lyrics also contain references to the struggle between good and evil, with the song's protagonist urging his listeners to "let nothing you dismay." This phrase is often seen as a call to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, and to trust in God's protection.
Printable God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Lyrics
Here are the printable lyrics to God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen:
God rest ye merry, gentlemen, Let nothing you dismay Remember, Christ, our Saviour Was born on Christmas day To save us all from Satan's power When we were gone astray O tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy O tidings of comfort and joy
From God our Heavenly Father A blessed Angel came And unto certain Shepherds In fields where they lay Keeping their flocks by night A heavenly host appeared Saying, "Fear not, I bring you tidings Of a Saviour born this day Of Jesus Christ our Lord" O tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy O tidings of comfort and joy
Oh, Shepherds, haste, to Bethlehem's plain And unto the manger's aid That Holy Child that Christ is born And hear His holy name Remember, Christ, our Saviour Was born on Christmas day To save us all from Satan's power When we were gone astray O tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy O tidings of comfort and joy
Additional Verses
Some versions of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen include additional verses, which are often sung as part of a larger arrangement. Here are a few examples:
When wicked men oppress us With trouble and with pain And when the tempests blow around us And when the world is cold And frozen in the snow God rest ye merry, gentlemen Let nothing you dismay Remember, Christ, our Saviour Was born on Christmas day To save us all from Satan's power When we were gone astray O tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy O tidings of comfort and joy
Conclusion
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen is a beloved Christmas carol that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its rich history and beautiful melody have made it a staple of the holiday season. Whether you're singing it around the piano with friends and family, or listening to a professional recording, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen is sure to bring comfort and joy to all who hear it.
We hope you've enjoyed this article, and that you'll join us in singing God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen this holiday season!
What is the history of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen?
+God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen is believed to have originated in England in the 16th or 17th century. Its earliest known publication was in 1833, when it was included in a collection of Christmas carols called "Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern" by William Sandys.
What is the meaning of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen?
+God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen is actually a prayer for God's protection and peace during the Christmas season. The song's title, "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," is often translated as "God keep you merry, gentlemen."