What are the lyrics of WHAT CHILD IS THIS? by John Stainer?

“WHAT CHILD IS THIS?” begins: What Child is this, who laid to rest… Read the full lyrics on ChoirPDFs.

Who composed WHAT CHILD IS THIS??

WHAT CHILD IS THIS? was composed by John Stainer.

What language is WHAT CHILD IS THIS? sung in?

WHAT CHILD IS THIS? is sung in English.

WHAT CHILD IS THIS? by John Stainer — Lyrics & Sheet Music (PDF)

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Added Jul 30, 2026

Composer: John Stainer

Uploaded By: Choir PDFs

Format: Solfa

Language: English

Pages: 1 page

WHAT CHILD IS THIS? by John Stainer — Lyrics

VERSE 1 What Child is this, who laid to rest On Mary's lap is sleeping; Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet While shepherds watch are keeping? This, this is Christ the King; Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing; Haste, haste to bring Him laud, The Babe, the Son of Mary! VERSE 2 Why lies He in such mean estate, Where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christians fear, for sinners here The silent Word is pleading.

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About WHAT CHILD IS THIS?

When the choir begins the haunting, familiar melody of "What Child Is This?", a profound stillness often settles over the congregation. Set to a traditional English tune, this beloved carol moves past the bright, festive noise of the season to dwell on the quiet mystery of the Incarnation. It asks the very question that must have been on the minds of the shepherds as they approached the humble manger to see the newborn baby.

During the Christmas season, choirs frequently sing this piece during the Offertory or as a Communion reflection. The verses beautifully contrast the poverty of the "mean estate" where the ox and ass feed with the majestic reality of who the Child truly is. As the voices swell into the refrain—"This, this is Christ the King"—the harmony lifts the hearts of the faithful, reminding us that the infant resting on Mary's lap is the Savior of the world.