Shepherds Sang Their Praises O'er Him
- Renée Coventry
- 15 minutes ago
- 2 min read
What would a nativity scene be without the shepherds? It is only right then that the Good Shepherd would be greeted by shepherds at His birth. The hymn Shepherds Sang Their Praises O’er Him, is believed to have first been sung in the fourteenth century in Latin under the title, Quem Pastores Laudavere. This is one of my favorite discoveries, emphasizing Christ’s Kingship and presenting Him as “Judah’s conquering Lion,” first mentioned in Genesis 49:9, in Israel’s blessing to his son, Judah, and repeated again in Revelation 5:5, where the elders in heaven encouraged John, “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed.”
It is believed that the third verse was later added between the original three verses 1, 2, and 4. I have chosen a Latin rendition for your listening pleasure this morning because it is performed on an instrument that would have been in use in the fourteenth century. Also, the arrangement is not solemn but lively, evoking the lyrics' evident joy. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Shepherds Sang Their Praises O’er Him
Quem Pastores Laudavere
Shepherds sang their praises o’er Him,
Called by angels to adore Him,
‘Have no fear, but come before Him:
Born is now your glorious King!’
Eastern sages came to view Him,
Judah’s conquering Lion knew Him,
Gold, and myrrh, and incense to Him
As their tribute offering.
On this Child, rejoicing gaze we;
Led by Mary, anthems raise we;
Reverently, with angels, praise we
With the sweetest melody.
Christ our King, from Mary springing,
God made man, salvation bringing,
Thee we worship, ever singing;
‘Honour, praise, and glory be!’
