A Maiden Was Adoring God The Lord

For the Annunciation

Words and Music: Birjina gaztettobat zegoen, Old Basque Carol

Words Translated by the Rev. J. O'Connor

Source: Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #101, pp. 20-21.

1. A maiden was adoring God the Lord,
When Gabriel came burning with a word:
All hail! Thou full of grace, the Lord our God is thine,
        Most blessed thou of women,
        Thou bearest fruit divine.

2. The maid in troubled wonder heard the same,
And doubted whence the salutation came:
The angel then: 'O Mary, far from thee be fear,
        With God thou hast found favour,
        He holdest thee most dear.'

3. Behold thou shalt conceive and bear a Son,
And ever will he reign on David's throne.
Thy holy offspring shall be call of God most high.
        And thou shalt call him Jesus.
        His Kingdom cannot die.

4. Then Mary said 'Since man I never know
Declare to me if this can be and how.'
'The holy Ghost will come and make thee God's own bride,
        The Most High Power o'ershade thee,
        Thy maidenhood abide.'

5. Then she, Behold the handmaid of the Lord,
Be done to me according to thy word.'
So came the Word made Flesh to dwell amongst us all.
        Him teach us, Well of wonder,
        To love, whate'er befall.

Sheet Music from Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #101, pp. 20-21.

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