1 While Shepherds watch'd their Flocks by Night,
All seated on the Ground,
The Angel of the Lord came down,
And Glory shone around.

2 "Fear not, said he (for mighty dread
"Had seiz'd their troubled Mind,)
"Glad Tidings of great Joy I bring
"To you and all Mankind.

3 "To you in David's Town this Day,
"Is born of David's Line,
"The Saviour, who is Christ the Lord;
"And this shall be the Sign:

4 "The heav'nly Babe you there shall find
"To human View display'd,
"All meanly wrapt in swathing Bands,
"And in a Manger laid."

5 Thus spake the Seraph, and forthwith
Appear'd a shining Throng
Of Angels praising God and thus
Address'd their joyful Song:

6 "All Glory be to God on high;
"And to the Earth be Peace;
"Good-will henceforth from Heav'n to Men,
"Begin and never cease.