Shepherds, shake off your drowsy sleep,
Rise and leave your silly sheep;
Angels from heav'n around loud singing,
Tidings of great joy are bringing.

(Refrain)
Shepherds! the chorus come and swell!
Sing Noel, O sing Noel!

Hark, even now, the bells ring round,
Listen to their merry sound;
Hark! how the birds new songs are making,
As if winter's chains were breaking.

See how the flow'rs all burst anew,
Thinking snow is summer dew;
See how the stars afresh are glowing,
All their brightest beams bestowing.

Cometh at length the age of peace,
Strife and sorrow now shall cease;
Prophets foretold the wondrous story
Of this Heav'n born Prince of Glory.

Shepherds! then up and quick away,
Seek the Babe ere break of day;
He is the hope of ev'ry nation,
All in Him shall find salvation.