"What Child Is This?"

"What Child Is This?" was written in 1865 by William Chatterton Dix while he was on bedrest, recovering from a serious illness. The hymn was put to traditional English melody, "Greensleeves."

• Top 10 Versions of "What Child Is This?" by Christian Artists and Bands
• Who Sings "What Child Is This?"

"What Child Is This?"

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.

Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christians, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce Him through,
The cross be borne for me, for you.
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Source: Public domain

The carol has been covered by artists from just about every style of music. From Sarah McLachlan, Josh Groban and Jessica Simpson to Johnny Mathis, Joan Baez and Burl Ives -- secular artists have done the song justice for years. As for Christian artists, there are several great versions out there for your listening enjoyment.

If you're looking for the top Christian versions of "What Child Is This?," here are two great lists ...

• Top 10 Versions of "What Child Is This?" by Christian Artists and Bands
• Who Sings "What Child Is This?"