Who Were The Shepherds Mary?

For Christmas, For Epiphany

Words and Music: Etzen bada Maria?, Old Basque Carol

Words Translated by the Rev. Canon John Gray

Source: Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #106, pp. 30-31.

1. Who were the shepherds, Mary,
Hastening to adore
Jesus the tender Baby
No one had seen before?
    Yes, they were simple shepherds,
    Saw Him the first of all;
    Rough in a way, but gentle,
    Loving and pitiful.

2. Who were the kings, O Mary?
Tell us if that be true:
Kings on a journey, seeking
Jesus they strangely knew.
    Kings from a distant country,
    Eager to see the Boy,
    Gifts of devotion brought Him
    Filling His heart with joy.

3. Who are the folk that beg thee,
Crowding about thy feet:
After our exile show us
Jesus thy Babe most sweet?
    Those are the millions He ransoms,
    Born of a virgin's womb,
    Lying alive in a manger,
    Dead and divine in a tomb.

4. Who are the tribes and nations
Clad in their robes and crowned,
Striking their harps and singing
Hymns of so sweet a sound?
    Those are the hosts unnumbered
    Prostrate before the throne,
    Praising to endless ages
    Him who is Lord alone.

Sheet Music from Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #106, pp. 30-31.

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