This edition was prepared by Andrew Sims — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Brightest and best of the stars of the morning
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
Preview
0
0
2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
Unison · Andrew Sims
Preview
Subscribed as
Want Sunday picks sent to another address too?
Free weekly email
Your choir should not be left out in what's trending
Sunday mass selections, psalms, and trending songs in your area — straight to your inbox.
Brightest and best of the stars of the morning by Anonymous — 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,
Read full lyrics
About Brightest and best of the stars of the morning
This hymn, appearing in The Christian Observer in 1811, is an anonymous setting of a text that calls upon Christ as the "Brightest and best of the stars of the morning." The unison setting in English reflects on the Nativity, contrasting the humble setting of the infant Redeemer with the adoration of angels. It questions the value of material offerings, concluding that "the heart's adoration" is far richer and dearer to God. The text emphasizes sincere devotion over costly gifts, presenting a simple yet profound message suitable for liturgical use.
