What Child Is This

Theology & Meaning

A meditation on the paradox of the Incarnation—the King of kings lying in a manger. William Chatterton Dix's 1865 text set to the English folk tune 'Greensleeves' asks the timeless question: who is this child? The answer unfolds through the three stanzas, culminating in a call to worship the newborn King.

Worship Leadership Tips

Beautiful for Advent or Christmas candlelight services. The minor-mode 'Greensleeves' tune creates a haunting, reverent atmosphere unlike the major-key brightness of most Christmas carols. Encourage slow, thoughtful singing. Consider pairing with a reading from Luke 2.

Arrangement Tips

Acoustic guitar or Celtic instruments (tin whistle, fiddle) fit naturally with the Greensleeves melody. Piano also works beautifully. Waltz feel (3/4) should be gentle and lilting. Avoid overpowering the melody with too much production. Can be sung a cappella with just choral voices.

Scripture References

• Luke 2:7-12
• Isaiah 9:6
• Matthew 2:11