O Holy Night by Adolphe Adam

Introduction

“O Holy Night” is a timeless Christmas carol that has captured the hearts of listeners around the world with its powerful melody and poignant lyrics. Composed by Adolphe Adam, the song has become a staple in holiday music, celebrated for its emotional depth and spiritual resonance.

O Holy Night by Adolphe Adam Lyrics

Lyrics

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining;
It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth!
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, the weary soul 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 came 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 pow’r and glory evermore proclaim!
His pow’r and glory evermore proclaim!

Watch and Download O Holy Night by Adolphe Adam

History

The origins of “O Holy Night” date back to 1847 when Adolphe Adam, a French composer known for his operatic works, set music to a poem titled “Minuit, chrétiens” (Midnight, Christians) by Placide Cappeau. The song was originally written to commemorate the renovation of the church organ in Roquemaure, France. Despite its religious undertones, the carol faced initial resistance from church authorities due to Cappeau’s secular background and Adam’s Jewish heritage. However, the song’s popularity quickly grew, and it spread beyond France to become an international Christmas favorite. The English version of the carol, translated by John Sullivan Dwight, further cemented its place in Christmas traditions, particularly in the United States.

Conclusion

Today, “O Holy Night” is cherished as one of the most beloved Christmas carols, performed by countless artists and sung in churches and homes worldwide. Its soaring melody and profound message of hope and redemption continue to inspire and uplift, making it an enduring symbol of the Christmas spirit.