What Child Is This?

Song Meaning

The lyrics pose a central, almost bewildered question: "What child is this?" It immediately establishes a scene of profound peace, with a baby sleeping on Mary's lap, observed by watchful shepherds and serenaded by angels. This quiet, domestic image is juxtaposed with the celestial activity, creating an immediate sense of wonder and divine significance surrounding this particular infant. The tone is one of awe, tinged with a gentle curiosity about the identity of this extraordinary child. The core tension lies in the unfolding revelation of the child's identity. The initial mystery gives way to the declarative statement: "This, this is Christ the King." This isn't just any baby; he is the prophesied ruler, the Son of Mary, destined for greatness. The lyrics urge a response, a call to action to "bring Him laud" and to "bring him incense, gold, and myrrh," highlighting the reverence and gifts befitting such a figure. The contrast between the humble "Babe" and the grand title "King of kings" is the emotional engine. The most striking craft element is the repetition and escalating exclamations. Phrases like "This, this" and the insistent "Haste, haste" build a sense of urgency and conviction. Later, "Raise, raise" and "Joy, joy" transform the initial wonder into outright celebration. This repetition mirrors the growing understanding and the outpouring of praise that the lyrics advocate. The simple, almost childlike refrain, "The Babe, the Son of Mary," anchors the divine pronouncements back to the tender, human reality of the sleeping infant. These lyrics are effective because they capture both the intimate tenderness of a nativity scene and the cosmic weight of a divine birth. The progression from a simple question to a joyous proclamation, amplified by repeated calls to action and praise, mirrors the experience of encountering profound truth. The writing grounds the immense theological concept of Christ's birth in the tangible image of a baby, making the awe-inspiring accessible and deeply felt.