This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Brightest and best
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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Brightest and best by Edward John Hopkins — Lyrics
The Christian Observer, 1811
1. Brightest and best of the sons of the morning,
Dawn on our darkness, and lend us thine aid!
Star of the East, the horizon adorning,
Guide where our infant Redeemer is laid!
2. Cold on his cradle the dewdrops are shining,
Low its his bed with the beasts of the stall;
Angels adore him in slumber reclining,
Maker, and Monarch, and Savior of all!
3. Say, shall we yield him, in costly devotion,
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About Brightest and best
This setting of Brightest and Best by Edward John Hopkins is a sacred hymn for SATB choir. The text, first published in The Christian Observer in 1811, reflects on the Nativity. It addresses Christ as the "brightest and best of the sons of the morning" and the "Star of the East," asking for guidance to the infant Redeemer. The hymn contrasts the simple setting of the manger with celestial adoration, and contemplates the nature of offerings made to the divine. It suggests that the heart's sincere adoration is more valuable than material gifts, a central theme in Christian devotion.
