Why, Cruel Herod, Dost Thou Fear? (Husenbeth)

Words: Caelius Sedulius, 5th Century. The original text was part of Sedulius’ longer A Solis Ortus Cardine and began, Hostis Herodes Impie. The 1632 Breviarium Romanum (Roman Breviary) changed the first two lines to Crudelis Herodes, Deum Regem venire quid times? Translated from the Latin of the 1632 Breviary to English by Frederick C. Husenbeth in Annus Sanctus, Volume 1, edited by Orby Shipley (London & New York: Burns & Oates, 1884), page 52.

Music: King of Kings (Martin) George C. Martin (1844–1916) (🔊 pdf nwc).

If you know where to get a good picture of Sedulius or Husenbeth (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),

Why, cruel Herod, dost thou fear,
Lest our great God and king appear?
He who can heav’nly crowns bestow
Comes not to seize thy throne below.

The wise men followed that bright star,
Which shone to them in realms afar;
While light itself by light they seek,
Their gifts, their faith and love bespeak.

The heav’nly Lamb the waters lave,
He sanctifies the crystal wave;
And He, whom sin could never stain,
Bids none upon our souls remain.

Behold a new display of might,
The pallid waters redden bright;
The mandate for the change once heard,
Wine flows obedient at the word.

Jesus, to Gentile kings displayed,
Glory to Thee and praise be paid,
With Father and with Holy Ghost,
Enthroned above the heav’nly host.

Scripture Verse

Introduction

Lyrics