Shepherds Arise - Traditional

Shepherds, arise, your souls refine,
See how your hamlet shines so bright!
The glorious light of God divine
Is come to bless the sons of night.
Hark, do you hear the angels sing,
And their hosannas louder ring!
Glory to God, good will to men,
Peace on the earth, good will to men.

The star that shines so bright on high
Hath called the wise men from the East,
To Bethlehem their steps they ply
To see the sweet and heavenly guest.
Hark, do you hear the angels sing,
And their hosannas louder ring!
Glory to God, good will to men,
Peace on the earth, good will to men.

Shepherds Arise lyrics were traditionally performed by local choirs in church galleries during the 18th and 19th centuries. The song features a robust and rustic character with a strong emphasis on the angelic message and the shepherds response. It is a piece of living history that reflects the musical life of rural English parishes before the Victorian era. By singing the Shepherds Arise lyrics participants revive a unique and spirited form of communal worship that celebrates the Nativity with a sense of local pride and historical continuity in the caroling tradition.