Previously I published a new literal English translation of the Christmas carol “Silent Night” (see www.jubalslyre.com/thoughts-on-silent-night). The interest was overwhelming and several people requested a metrical translation of the original text.
Here is a metrical translation that I have crafted and recrafted over many years. The intent has been to keep as much of the deep and rich theology of the original text as possible while at the same time making it easily understandable, singable, and practical. It is designed to fit the original melody, not the melody in common use, and employs for the most part a metrical scheme of 68 88 66, the last two lines differing occasionally.
My ensembles have always enjoyed singing this translation. Hope you find it beneficial and useful as well. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Silent night! Holy night!
All the world sleeps; only one light
shines where Joseph and Mary keep
loving watch o’er their child, asleep.
Sleep in heavenly peace!
Sleep in heavenly peace!Silent night! Holy night!
O Son of God how with delight
love shines shines forth as You smile in pow’r
and for us strikes salvation’s hour,
Jesus, with Your birth!
Jesus, with Your birth!Silent night! Holy night!
Love, coming down from golden height,
is our Savior in whom we see
mercy, grace fulfilled perfectly.
Jesus, God become man!
Jesus, God become man!Silent night! Holy night!
Where today all power and might
is poured out on the world and we
all together come kneel to see
Jesus, the Lord of the world!
Jesus, the Lord of the world!Silent night! Holy night!
Long ago God did us indict,
but He set aside wrath for sin
and through prophets of old did send
Mercy to all of the world!
Mercy to all of the world!Silent night! Holy night!
© 2014 Martin P. Dicke. All rights reserved.
Shepherds first heard and then proclaimed
“Alleluia!” with angel choir.
Sing it loudly both near and far:
“Jesus the Savior is here!”
“Jesus the Savior is here!”
For permission to use or reprint please write to [email protected].
Choir editions are available for Mixed, Treble, and Male Choirs in both English and German. A Reprint Edition has also been developed so that the carol can be used with congregations and audiences. Please contact me if you are interested and I can send you some review copies.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Silent Night, Holy Night editions by Jubal’s Lyre Music Publishers on www.sheetmusicplus.com.
