Silent Night – The Missing Verses

I was watching with my family a new little film called Silent Night, which shares a little bit more about Joseph Mohr, the author of the hymn we all know as Silent Night.  What I didn’t know, is that he actually wrote 6 verses to this song, but we most commonly only sing the first 3.  I wanted to share with you my favorite translation of the 4th, 5th and 6th verses.  I think they might just make you feel a little closer to the beauty of this Christmas Season.

This site shares more of the history of the Song and has photos of the original scores.

 

Silent Night! Holy Night!

John Freeman Young (verses 1-3), ca. 1859
William C. Egan (verses 4-6), 2007

1. Silent night! Holy night!
All is calm, all is bright,
Round yon Virgin Mother and Child!
Holy Infant, so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace!
Sleep in heavenly peace!

2. Silent night! Holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight!
Glories stream from Heaven afar,
Heavenly Hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Saviour, is born!
Christ, the Saviour, is born!

3. Silent night! Holy night!
Son of God, loves pure light
Radiant beams from Thy Holy Face
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy Birth!
Jesus, Lord, at Thy Birth!

4. Silent Night, Holy Night
Here at last, healing light
From the heavenly kingdom sent,
Abundant grace for our intent.
Jesus, salvation for all.
Jesus, salvation for all.

5. Silent Night! Holy Night”
Sleeps the world in peace tonight.
God sends his Son to earth below
A Child from whom all blessings flow
Jesus, embraces mankind.
Jesus, embraces mankind.

6. Silent Night, Holy Night
Mindful of mankind’s plight
The Lord in Heav’n on high decreed
From earthly woes we would be freed
Jesus, God’s promise for peace.
Jesus, God’s promise for peace.

It is a powerful thing to recognize that the One who comforts and extends mercy to us all, was once a baby placed in a manger. Out of small things comes that which is great. I hope you find reason to turn to Him this Christmas and New Year. He has the power to show us small and helpless children how great and marvelous we can become. Merry Christmas!