Charles Wesley was a renowned English clergyman, poet, and one of the most prolific hymn writers in Christian history.
One of the founding members of the Methodist movement alongside his brother John Wesley, Wesley wrote over 6,000 hymns during his lifetime.
Many of his hymns are still sung widely in churches today, especially during the Christmas season.
About the Song
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing is a joyful Christmas carol that announces the birth of Jesus Christ. The song celebrates the good news of Christ’s coming and calls for praise and joy in response to his birth.
Many famous singers, such as Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, and Mariah Carey, have recorded this carol over the years.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | 1739 |
| Album | N/A (Hymn) |
| Writers | Charles Wesley |
| Producers | N/A (Traditional Hymn) |
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Complete Lyrics
Verse 1
Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new-born King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild;
God and sinners reconciled.”
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With angelic hosts proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem.”
Verse 2
Christ, by highest heav’n adored,
Christ, the everlasting Lord:
Late in time behold Him come,
Offspring of a virgin’s womb.
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see,
Hail th’ incarnate Deity!
Pleased as man with man to dwell,
Jesus our Immanuel.
Verse 3
Hail the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Sun of righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings,
Ris’n with healing in His wings:
Mild He lays His glory by,
Born that man no more may die;
Born to raise the sons of earth;
Born to give them second birth.
Verse 4
Come, Desire of nations, come!
Fix in us Thy humble home:
Rise, the woman’s conqu’ring seed,
Bruise in us the serpent’s head;
Adam’s likeness now efface,
Stamp Thine image in its place:
Final Adam from above,
Reinstate us in Thy love.
History & Background of the Song
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing was written by Charles Wesley in 1739 and was altered by George Whitefield later. Originally, it had a different melody, but the music we recognize today was adapted by Felix Mendelssohn in the 19th century.
The song tells the story of Jesus’ birth and is filled with hope and joy. It has become one of the most loved Christmas carols around the world.
The hymn has a long history in the Christian church, becoming one of the most beloved carols, especially during Christmas services. The lyrics proclaim the joy and significance of Jesus’ birth, focusing on peace on Earth and goodwill to all people.
Inclusions in Hymnals
This carol is found in nearly all major Christian hymnals and songbooks. It is especially popular in church services during the Christmas season.
It is widely featured in hymnals across various denominations, including in the United Methodist Hymnal, the Presbyterian Hymnal, and many others. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless message and beautiful melody, making it a staple in Christmas worship.
Similar Songs like Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
When you enjoy the uplifting message of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. These Christmas carols also bring joy and celebrate Jesus’ birth:
- O Come, All Ye Faithful: This carol invites everyone to worship the newborn King. The message is joyful and full of praise.
- Joy to the World: It celebrates the coming of Jesus. The song is bright and uplifting.
- Silent Night: This carol is gentle and peaceful. The words help people feel calm and hopeful.
- O Holy Night: The song is powerful and full of emotion. It tells the story of Jesus’ birth movingly.
Similar Writers Like Charles Wesley
If you appreciate the writer that have written Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. These artists also create classic Christmas music:
- Isaac Watts
Genre: Hymn writing, Christian poetry
Top Work: Psalms of David, Hymns and Spiritual Songs - John Newton
Genre: Hymn writing, gospel
Top Work: Amazing Grace - Philip Doddridge
Genre: Hymn writing, Christian poetry
Top Work: O Happy Day - William Cowper
Genre: Hymn writing, Christian poetry
Top Work: There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Changed the First Line of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing?
George Whitefield changed Hark how all the welkin rings to Hark! The Herald Angels sing.
When was Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Published?
The lyrics were first published in 1739 in Hymns and Sacred Poems.
What Melody is Used in Hark! The Herald Angels Sing?
The melody is adapted from Felix Mendelssohn’s Festgesang by William H. Cummings.
