1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
2 ""Fear not, "" said he for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind;)
""Glad tidings of great joy I bring
""To you, and all mankind.
3 ""To you in David's town this day
""Is born of David's line,
""The Savior who is Christ the Lord;
""And this shall be the sign:
4 ""The heavenly babe, you there shall find
""To human view displayed,
""All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
""And in a manger laid.""
5 ""All glory be to God on high,
""And to the earth be peace;
""Goodwill, henceforth from heaven to men
""Begin and never cease.""