1 Brightest and best of the sons of the morning,
dawn on our darkness and come to our aid;
star of the east, the horizon adorning,
guide where our infant Redeemer is laid.
2 What shall we give him, in costly devotion?
Shall we bring incense and offerings divine,
gems of the mountain and pearls of the ocean,
myrrh from the forest or gold from the mine?
3 Vainly we offer each lavish oblation,
vainly with gifts would his favor secure;
richer by far is the heart's adoration,
dearer to God are the prayers of the poor.
4 Brightest and best of the stars of the morning,
dawn on our darkness and come to our aid;
star of the east, the horizon adorning,
guide where our infant Redeemer is laid!
