The lyrics of the Christmas carol ‘O Holy Night’ were written as a poem in France by Placide Cappeau. He was asked to write the poem by his parish priest, who wanted a Christmas poem for his congregation that would have spiritual meaning. A couple of years later, Adolphe Adam composed the music for Cappeau’s poem to create the version of ‘O Holy Night’ we know today.
The song is really meant to convey a deep sense of awe and joy at Christ’s birth; some phrases from ‘O Holy Night’ include: “Truly, he taught us to love one another. His law is love, and his gospel is peace.” There are obviously Christian themes throughout this song that make it very culturally specific to Christian traditions surrounding Christmas.
O Holy Night Lyrics By Placide Cappeau
| Section | Details |
| Song Title | O Holy Night |
| Original Title | Minuit, Chrétiens (Midnight, Christians) |
| Written By | Placide Cappeau (Poet) |
| Composed By | Adolphe Adam (Composer) |
| Year of Origin | 1847 |
| Country of Origin | France |
| Themes | Hope, redemption, divine love, the birth of Jesus Christ, faith, humility, unity |
| Verse 1 | Describes the birth of Christ and the joy and hope His arrival brings to the world. |
| Chorus | Calls for worship and reverence, urging listeners to fall on their knees and hear the angel voices. |
| Verse 2 | Focuses on the guiding light of faith, the humble birth of Jesus, and the visit of the wise men. |
| Verse 3 | Highlights the teachings of Christ, His love, and the promise of peace and freedom for all. |
| Significance | The song has become a cherished Christmas carol worldwide, transcending time and cultures. |
O Holy Night Lyrics
O Holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
‘Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn
Fall on your knees; O hear the Angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born
O night, O Holy night, O night divine!
Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming
Here come the Wise Men from Orient land
The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger
In all our trials born to be our friend
He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend
Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His Gospel is Peace
Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother
And in His name, all oppression shall cease
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we
Let all within us Praise His Holy name
Christ is the Lord; O praise His name forever!
His power and glory evermore proclaim
His power and glory evermore proclaim
Read More: BMF Lyrics
