The Christmas carol "O Little Town of Bethlehem" is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. The lyrics, written by Phillips Brooks in 1868, are a beautiful and poignant tribute to the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Here, we will delve into the history of the song, its meaning, and provide a printable version of the lyrics.
The History of "O Little Town of Bethlehem"
Phillips Brooks, an American Episcopal priest, wrote the lyrics to "O Little Town of Bethlehem" in 1868. Brooks was inspired by his visit to Bethlehem in 1865, where he witnessed a beautiful Christmas Eve service. He wanted to capture the essence of the night in a poem, which would later become the carol we know today.
Brooks' poem was initially titled "Christmas Carol" and consisted of five stanzas. The melody, however, was composed by Lewis Redner, the organist at Brooks' church, Trinity Church in Philadelphia. Redner's melody was inspired by a traditional English folk tune, and it has since become an integral part of the carol.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of "O Little Town of Bethlehem" are a beautiful expression of the significance of Jesus' birth. The song begins by describing the quiet town of Bethlehem, where the night is "deep" and the stars are "bright." The second stanza introduces the theme of the Christ child, born in a humble manger, yet destined to bring light to the world.
Throughout the song, Brooks uses imagery and metaphor to convey the message of hope and redemption. The "silent stars" and "moonbeams" shine down on the town, symbolizing the divine presence that is about to be revealed. The "child in the manger" is described as a "gift divine," emphasizing the idea that Jesus is a precious gift to humanity.
Printable Version of the Lyrics
Here is a printable version of the lyrics to "O Little Town of Bethlehem":
O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by; Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light; The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight.
For Christ is born of Mary, And gathered all above, While mortals sleep, the angels keep Their watch of wondering love. O morning stars together Proclaim the holy birth, And praises sing to God the King, And Peace to men on earth!
How silently, how silently, The wondrous gift is given! So God imparts to human hearts The blessings of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming, But in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive Him still, The dear Christ enters in.
O holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin and enter in, Be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels The great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel!
Where charity stands watching And faith holds wide the door, The dark night wakes, the glory breaks, And Christmas comes once more.
Additional Verses
There are several additional verses to "O Little Town of Bethlehem," although they are not as widely known as the main four. Here are two additional verses:
O holy Child of Bethlehem, In dark and light of day, We worship thee, thy praise proclaim, In joy and sorrow's way. O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel.
And pray that we may see, The gift of love divine, That we may know and follow thee, The Child of Bethlehem, divine.
Conclusion
"O Little Town of Bethlehem" is a beautiful and timeless Christmas carol that has captured the hearts of people around the world. Its poignant lyrics and soaring melody make it a beloved holiday classic. Whether you are singing it in church, at home, or with friends and family, the message of hope and redemption is sure to touch your heart.
Who wrote the lyrics to "O Little Town of Bethlehem"?
+The lyrics to "O Little Town of Bethlehem" were written by Phillips Brooks in 1868.
What inspired Phillips Brooks to write the lyrics?
+Brooks was inspired by his visit to Bethlehem in 1865, where he witnessed a beautiful Christmas Eve service.
Who composed the melody to "O Little Town of Bethlehem"?
+The melody was composed by Lewis Redner, the organist at Brooks' church, Trinity Church in Philadelphia.