Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: new-age
Song Meaning of “What Child Is This?” by Lori Mechem
This traditional carol written by William C. Dix tells the story of the Nativity and celebrates the coming of Jesus Christ. The song is told from Mary’s perspective as she rejoices in her son, the newborn King.
The song starts with the question, ‘What Child is this who, laid to rest on Mary’s lap is sleeping?’ Mary contemplates the answer to this question as she looks upon the infant Jesus in silent awe. She then answers the query in the next stanza, recognizing that this Child is of royal lineage, a King of God’s own choosing.
The chorus then takes on a celebratory tone, with Mary joyfully proclaiming ‘This, this is Christ, the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing.’ Her adoration extends to the accompanying animals who watched over her Son, and the wise men who brought him gifts.
The third stanza introduces an element of humility and prayer, as Mary concedes her unworthiness before the Lord. The melody shifts from a triumphant cry to a humble supplication as Mary pleads ‘Oh, holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to me, I pray.’
The song closes with a phrase repeated throughout Christmas carols of the time: ‘Sleep in heavenly peace.’ This phrase serves as a reminder of Mary and Joseph’s faith that the King of Kings will restore peace to the world, that righteousness will triumph over evil.