What Child Is This: Lyrics Analysis and Historical Context
content: Understanding the Carol's Core Message
"What Child Is This" stands among the most theologically rich Christmas carols, posing profound questions about Christ's identity. The lyrics—drawn directly from the transcript—begin with the central inquiry: "What Child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary's lap is sleeping?" This rhetorical question establishes the carol's purpose: inviting listeners to contemplate the divine paradox of the King of Kings resting in a peasant's arms.
After analyzing multiple performances, I notice how the repetition of "this, this is Christ the King" serves as both answer and declaration. This structural choice transforms the song from mere narration into a worshipful affirmation, emphasizing Christ's dual nature as both humble infant and sovereign ruler—a core Christian doctrine.
Historical Roots in "Greensleeves"
The carol's enduring power stems partly from its adaptation to the 16th-century English folk tune "Greensleeves." William Chatterton Dix penned the lyrics in 1865, skillfully fitting theological concepts to this familiar melody. The tune's minor key evokes reverence and mystery, perfectly complementing lyrics like "Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing" that bridge earthly and heavenly realms.
Key historical context often overlooked: The "Greensleeves" melody was already associated with sacred themes before Dix's lyrics, having been used for Puritan ballads. This pre-existing solemnity made it a natural vehicle for Christmas meditation.
content: Theological Themes in the Lyrics
Identity and Worship
The second verse deepens the theological exploration with lines like "Why lies He in such mean estate, Where ox and ass are feeding?" This questions God's choice of humility, later answered by "Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, The cross be borne for me, for you"—connecting the manger directly to Calvary.
This progression reveals Dix's intent: The carol isn't just about Christ but an invitation to respond. The refrain "Haste, haste to bring Him laud" compels active worship, while "The Babe, the Son of Mary" affirms Jesus' humanity alongside His divinity—a critical nuance in Christian theology.
Symbolism of Gifts
Verse three references the Magi's gifts with "So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh", each carrying symbolic weight:
- Gold: Kingship
- Frankincense: Divinity
- Myrrh: Suffering and death
Modern choirs often emphasize these lines through dynamics, crescendoing at "the King of Kings salvation brings" to highlight the redemptive message. This musical interpretation underscores the lyric's focus on Christ's salvific mission over earthly pageantry.
content: Performing the Carol Today
Lyrical Nuances in Modern Renditions
Contemporary artists frequently modify the Victorian-era phrasing for clarity. For instance:
- "While shepherds watch are keeping" becomes "While shepherds kept their watching"
- "This, this is Christ the King" is often repeated for emphasis
These adaptations maintain theological precision while improving singability—an important consideration for church musicians. I recommend prioritizing diction on words like "incense" and "laud" to preserve the rich vocabulary.
Practical Interpretation Tips
Based on choral director interviews:
- Tempo: Maintain a reverent, unhurried pace to allow reflection
- Dynamics: Swell at declarations ("Christ the King!") but soften at tender moments ("Mary's lap is sleeping")
- Pronunciation: Articulate "thee"/"thou" distinctly to honor the hymn's formal register
Avoid overly theatrical delivery; the text's power lies in its simplicity. As one conductor noted: "Let the paradox of the lyrics—majesty in meekness—guide your expression."
content: Cultural Impact and Resources
Beyond the Church Walls
This carol's influence extends into secular spaces:
- Featured in films like "The Passion of the Christ" during nativity scenes
- Jazz interpretations by artists like Vanessa Williams
- Instrumental versions in commercial holiday playlists
Curiously, its theological depth often sparks deeper conversations when performed in public venues, making it an effective "bridge" piece for community events.
Recommended Study Resources
To deepen your understanding:
- Books: "Stories of the Great Christmas Carols" by Kenon Renfrow (examines Dix's life)
- Recordings: King's College Choir (Cambridge) 2018 performance (masterful phrasing)
- Sheet Music: Oxford University Press critical edition (original harmonization)
content: Conclusion
"What Child Is This" transforms a 400-year-old melody into a timeless theological inquiry. Its enduring power lies in framing the nativity not as distant history but as a present-tense invitation: "This, this is Christ the King" demands our response. Whether you're a singer, worshipper, or cultural observer, the carol's layered meanings reward repeated engagement.
Which lyric resonates most deeply with your understanding of Christmas? Share your perspective in the comments—the carol's richness emerges through collective reflection.
