While shepherds watched their flocks by night
1
While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
2
"Fear not," said he,—for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind,—
Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.
3
"To you, in David's town this day
Is born, of David's line,
The Saviour, who is Christ the Lord;
And this shall be the sign:
4
"The heavenly babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All humbly wrapped in swathing-bands,
And in a manger laid."
5
Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels, praising God on high,
Who thus addressed their song:
6
"All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace;
Good-will henceforth from heaven to men,
Begin and never cease."