La música cristiana es de origen judío: la liturgia musical de la sinagoga, en particular el canto psalmódico de los judíos como unidad poética musical, fue un legado preciado transmitido del Israel antiguo al cristianismo primitivo, como forma de manifestar tanto a nivel personal como comunitario las creencias religiosas y la fe en Dios.
What child is this, who laid to rest
On Mary's lap, is sleeping
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping
This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud
The Babe, the Son of Mary
Why lies he in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear for sinners here
The silent Word is pleasing
This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary
The Son of Mary
The Son of Mary
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh
Come peasant king to own Him
The King of Kings, salvation brings
Let loving hearts enthrone Him