What Child Is This Meaning, History, and Theology
"What child is this who, laid to rest"
- Written
- 1865
- Category
- Hymn
- Tune
- Standard Tune
- Rights
- Public domain
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Story
What Child Is This is a beloved Christmas hymn written by William Chatterton Dix and sung to the traditional English melody Greensleeves. Inspired by the biblical nativity story, the hymn reflects on the identity of the Christ child and celebrates the mystery of the incarnation.
Overview
What Child Is This is one of the most beloved Christmas hymns in the English speaking world. Written by William Chatterton Dix in the nineteenth century, the hymn reflects deeply on the identity of the infant Jesus lying in the manger.
Through a series of poetic questions and answers, the hymn reveals that the child of Bethlehem is none other than Christ the King. The text invites worshippers to contemplate the mystery of the incarnation, in which God entered human history through the birth of Jesus.
The hymn also contrasts the humility of Christ's birth with his divine identity. Though he lies in a humble manger, he is the Savior whose coming fulfills ancient prophecies and brings salvation to the world.
Because of its rich theology and memorable melody, the hymn has become a central part of Christmas worship and celebration.
Historical Background
William Chatterton Dix wrote What Child Is This in 1865 during a period of serious illness that led him to reflect deeply on the life of Christ. During his recovery he composed several hymns that explored the mystery of the incarnation.
The text was later paired with the traditional English melody known as Greensleeves, a tune dating from the sixteenth century. The combination of Dix's poetic meditation with this well known melody helped the hymn gain widespread popularity.
Dix was not a professional clergy member but a businessman who wrote hymns as an expression of personal devotion. His works frequently demonstrate careful attention to Scripture and theology.
Since its publication in the nineteenth century, the hymn has been included in numerous hymnals and Christmas collections throughout the Christian world.
Biblical Foundations
The hymn is firmly rooted in the biblical narratives of Christ's birth. The Gospel of Luke recounts the appearance of angels to shepherds who then visit the newborn Savior in Bethlehem.
Matthew's Gospel adds the story of the magi bringing gifts to honor the infant king. This scene is reflected in the hymn's invitation to bring incense, gold, and myrrh.
Old Testament prophecy also informs the hymn's message. Isaiah foretold the birth of a child who would reign as a divine king and bring peace.
Finally, the Gospel of John proclaims that the eternal Word became flesh. This central doctrine of the incarnation lies at the heart of the hymn's reflection on the identity of the Christ child.
Verse Explanation
The first stanza introduces the central question of the hymn: who is this child lying in the manger. The answer reveals that he is Christ the King, honored by shepherds and angels.
The second stanza reflects on the humility of Christ's birth while hinting at the purpose of his coming. The reference to the silent Word suggests the incarnate Son who will suffer for humanity.
The final stanza broadens the response of worship to include all people. Kings and peasants alike are invited to bring gifts and honor the newborn Savior.
Through this progression the hymn moves from wonder to recognition and finally to adoration.
Theological Reflection
The hymn emphasizes the doctrine of the incarnation, the belief that God became human in Jesus Christ. The text invites worshippers to marvel at the paradox of divine glory revealed in humble circumstances.
Another key theme is the kingship of Christ. Though born in poverty, Jesus is recognized as the King of kings who brings salvation to the world.
The hymn also highlights the response of worship. Shepherds, angels, and wise men all honor the newborn Christ, demonstrating that all creation is called to praise him.
Ultimately the hymn points toward redemption. The child in the manger is the Savior who will suffer and die to bring salvation to humanity.
Church Impact
What Child Is This has become one of the most enduring Christmas hymns in Western Christian worship. Its combination of theological depth and memorable music has ensured its place in both church services and cultural celebrations.
The hymn continues to serve as a teaching tool that helps congregations reflect on the meaning of Christ's birth.
Through generations of worshippers, the hymn has inspired awe, devotion, and renewed appreciation for the mystery of the incarnation.
Musical Notes
The melody GREENSLEEVES is a traditional English folk tune dating back to the sixteenth century. Its minor key gives the carol a reflective and haunting character.
The tune's flowing rhythm and memorable melodic pattern have made it one of the most recognizable melodies associated with Christmas music.
When paired with Dix's text, the music enhances the sense of mystery and reverence surrounding the birth of Christ.
Application
- Reflect on the mystery of God becoming human in Jesus Christ.
- Respond to the gift of Christ with worship and gratitude.
- Recognize Christ as the true king worthy of devotion.
- Share the message of Christ's birth with others.
- Celebrate the joy and hope of the incarnation during the Christmas season.
Discussion Questions
- What question does the hymn ask about the identity of the Christ child?
- What biblical stories are referenced in the hymn?
- Why is the contrast between humility and kingship important in the hymn?
- How does the hymn invite believers to respond to Christ?
- What does the incarnation reveal about God's relationship with humanity?
Teaching Tips
- Read the nativity story from Luke before singing the hymn.
- Discuss the symbolic meaning of the gifts mentioned in the hymn.
- Explain the historical origins of the Greensleeves melody.
- Encourage reflection on the meaning of Christ the King.
- Use the hymn as part of a Christmas teaching series about the incarnation.
Sources
-
The Canterbury Dictionary of Hymnology
-
Hymnary.org
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The Oxford Book of Carols
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Erik Routley A Panorama of Christian Hymnody
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The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church
What Child Is This Lyrics and Guitar Chords
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