We all have our favorite Christmas carols and memories. When I was in high school, my voice didn’t lend much to the choir, but, under the direction of Mrs. Carolyn McDowell, I was part of a liturgical dance to “What Child Is This” in the yearly Christmas program. I always think of that happy time whenever I hear that hymn.
“What Child Is This” was written by William Chatterton Dix, the manager of the Maritime Insurance Company in Glasgow, Scotland. In 1865, at 29 years of ago, Mr. Dix suffered a near-fatal illness coupled with a severe bout of depression. While recovering, he experienced a spiritual awakening. He became an avid reader of The Bible and started writing hymns. He wrote the lyrics of “What Child Is This” and set them to the English folksong, “Greensleeves,” which was already a beloved tune, not necessarily associated with Christmas, but considered festive. The tune dated back to 1642 and was referred to twice in Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor.”
“What Child Is This” was published in 1871. Dix subsequently published more hymns like “As With Gladness Men of Old,” and “Alleluia! Sing to Jesus.”
“What Child Is This” calls to mind the adoration of the shepherds and asks questions which might have been on their minds. The first question, “What child is this?” is answered in the chorus, “This is Christ the King.” In the second verse, we see the term “mean estate.” Why is a King born in a stable? The writer is also alluding to Christ’s future suffering and anguish. The final stanza focuses on those attending the birth. Both king and peasant have an equal chance to adore the Christ Child and benefit from His salvation.
“Haste, haste, to bring him laud, the babe, the son of Mary.”
If you would like to hear “What Child Is This” with the printed lyrics, go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzjfNu0TrcA
Anita Gardner Farrell
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