Star Of Bethlehem

Words and Music: English Traditional

Compare: Star of Bethlehem (Lo! The Eastern magi rise)

Source: Ralph Dunstan, The Cornish Song Book (London: Reid Bros., Ltd., 1929), p. 111.

1. Lo! the Eastern Sages rise,
At a signal from the skies,
Brighter than the brightest gem;
    'Tis the Star of Bethlehem.

2. Balaam's mystic words appear
Full of light divinely clear;
And the import wrapp'd in them,
    'Tis the Star of Bethlehem.

3. Joyful let us quickly rise;
Still the signal's in the skies,
David's rod of Jesse's stem,
    'Tis the Star of Bethlehem.

Sheet Music

Note from Dr. Dunstan: This Carol was formerly very popular in the Parishes of St. Agnes, Mithian, and Perranzabuloe — and is still sung there.

Variants of the tune exist, with interpolations. The version given here is from the most reliable MS. collections of 1840-1850.

If you would like to help support Hymns and Carols of Christmas, please click on the button below and make a donation.

Related Hymns and Carols