Scripture Verse

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:14

Introduction

portrait
John H. Hopkins, Jr.
1820–1891

Words & Mu­sic: John H. Hop­kins, Jr., Ca­rols, Hymns and Songs (New York: Church Book De­po­si­to­ry, 1863), pag­es 16–17 (🔊 pdf nwc).

Lyrics

Hail to the morn when Christ is born!
Hosanna in the highest!
Angels on high sing thro’ the sky!
Hosanna in the highest!
Shepherds adore the Lamb today:
Kings from the east are on their way;

Refrain

Sing then all in house and hall:
Hosanna!
Christ is born on Christmas morn,
Hosanna in the highest!

Cedar and pine now cheerily twine:
Hosanna in the highest!
Crown every scene with evergreen:
Hosanna in the highest!
Now is the reign of darkness o’er:
Jesu is King for evermore!

Refrain

Boughs of the holly this day adorn:
Hosanna in the highest!
Sharp are the leaves as crowns of thorn:
Hosanna in the highest!
See, in the berries all blood-red,
Blood that, for us, this Babe shall shed:

Refrain

Laurel and bay bring forth today:
Hosanna in the highest!
Matchless His might in deadly fight:
Hosanna in the highest!
Hail to the Child Immanuel!
Conqueror is He of death and hell!

Refrain