lyrics for once in royal david's city

Olvin

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11-01-2025

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"Once in Royal David's City" is a beloved Christmas carol, cherished for its simple yet powerful message of hope and the promise of the coming Messiah. This post delves into the lyrics, explores the carol's rich history, and examines its enduring significance in the Christmas season and beyond.

The Lyrics of "Once in Royal David's City"

The original lyrics, penned by Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848, paint a vivid picture of Jesus' humble birth and the majesty of his future reign. Here are the most commonly sung verses:

Verse 1:

Once in royal David's city, Stood a lowly cattle shed, Where a Mother laid her Baby, In a manger for His bed. Mary was that Mother mild, Jesus Christ her little Child.

Verse 2:

He came down to earth from heaven, Did a little child assume, Made His home in Mary's bosom, Till the day of His full bloom. There a Mother sat and sang, To her little Child and played, While the stars above them sang, Of the hope the earth delayed.

Verse 3:

For our sake that Baby came, Born in a manger lowly, Oh! come let us adore Him, Oh! come let us adore Him, Oh! come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.

Verse 4 (often included but not originally part of the carol):

For our sake that Baby came, Born in a manger lowly, Oh! come let us adore Him, Oh! come let us adore Him, Oh! come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.

Variations exist, with additional verses sometimes included, but the core message remains consistent across different versions.

The History and Composition of the Carol

Cecil Frances Alexander, a prolific hymn writer and poet, wrote "Once in Royal David's City" for use in her Sunday school. The simplicity of the lyrics makes it accessible to children, reflecting Alexander's intention to create a carol easily learned and sung by young worshippers. The carol's melody, composed by Henry Smart, complements the text beautifully, enhancing its emotional impact. The combination of Alexander's evocative words and Smart's memorable tune contributed significantly to the carol's enduring popularity.

The Significance and Enduring Appeal of the Carol

The carol's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of Christmas: the humility of Jesus' birth contrasted with the grandeur of his divine nature. The lyrics evoke feelings of reverence, wonder, and joy, reminding us of the central message of Christmas – the incarnation of God in human form.

The imagery of the "lowly cattle shed" and "manger for His bed" emphasizes the simplicity and vulnerability of the Christ child, highlighting the contrast between his divine majesty and his earthly humility. This juxtaposition reinforces the message of God's love for humanity, a message that resonates deeply across cultures and generations.

The recurring phrase "Oh! come let us adore Him" serves as a powerful call to worship, inviting listeners to participate in the celebration of the Christ child's birth.

Conclusion

"Once in Royal David's City" remains a treasured Christmas carol, cherished for its beautiful lyrics, memorable melody, and powerful message. Its simplicity and accessibility make it perfect for family gatherings, church services, and any occasion that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Its enduring popularity reflects its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional and spiritual level, reaffirming the timeless message of hope and love at the heart of the Christmas story.