O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight
The dark night wakes
and glory breaks
The Child was born for us
Gloria
How silently, how silently, the wondrous Gift is giv'n
So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His Heav'n
No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin
Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in
The dark night wakes
and glory breaks
The Child was born for us
Gloria
O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray
Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today
We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell
Oh, come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel
The dark night wakes
and glory breaks
The Child was born for us
Gloria
O Little Town of Bethlehem Video
O Little Town of Bethlehem Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
O Little Town of Bethlehem: Exploring the Key Messages and Meaning of Tommee Profitt's Song
Introduction:
We will explore the main key messages of the song, understand its meaning, and critically analyze its biblical accuracy. This beloved carol has captivated hearts for generations, and we will uncover its deeper significance in the context of the birth of Jesus Christ.
1. Exploring the Key Messages:
a) "O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie, above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by."
The opening lines of the song set the scene of the humble town of Bethlehem, emphasizing its stillness and quietness. It highlights the contrast between the ordinary sleep of its residents and the extraordinary events that are about to unfold. The mention of the silent stars signifies the divine presence and the anticipation of something momentous happening.
b) "Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light, the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight."
These lines beautifully capture the essence of Christmas. Bethlehem, despite its darkness and obscurity, becomes the birthplace of the everlasting Light, referring to Jesus Christ. The arrival of Jesus brings hope and dispels fears that have plagued humanity for centuries. The birth of Christ is the culmination of years of waiting and longing for the Savior, bringing together the hopes and fears of all generations.
2. The Meaning and Inspiration:
"O Little Town of Bethlehem" is a traditional Christmas carol that was written by Phillips Brooks, an American Episcopal priest, in 1868. The lyrics were inspired by his visit to Bethlehem in 1865 and his attendance at the Christmas Eve service at the Church of the Nativity. The song seeks to capture the essence of the biblical narrative surrounding the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, emphasizing the significance of this small town in God's redemptive plan.
The song's lyrics reflect the awe and wonder that Brooks experienced during his visit to Bethlehem. It encapsulates the profound truth that God chose a lowly manger in an insignificant town to bring forth the Savior of the world. The song serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings of Jesus and the divine purpose behind His coming.
3. Critically Analyzing the Biblical Accuracy:
To evaluate the biblical accuracy of "O Little Town of Bethlehem," we must examine its alignment with the scriptural accounts of Jesus' birth.
a) The Prophecy of Bethlehem:
The Old Testament prophet Micah prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem:
"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times" (Micah 5:2, NIV).
The song acknowledges the fulfillment of this prophecy by emphasizing Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Savior.
b) The Humility of Jesus' Birth:
The biblical accounts in Luke 2:1-7 and Matthew 2:1-6 describe how Jesus was born in a stable and laid in a manger due to the lack of space in the inn. This humble setting is accurately portrayed in the song's lyrics, capturing the essence of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem.
c) The Everlasting Light:
The song refers to Jesus as the "everlasting Light," which aligns with biblical references to Jesus as the Light of the world. In John 8:12, Jesus declares, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life" (NIV). The song beautifully captures this biblical truth, emphasizing Jesus' role as the source of spiritual illumination and guidance.
4. Conclusion:
"O Little Town of Bethlehem" by Tommee Profitt is a heartfelt rendition of the classic Christmas carol. It faithfully captures the key messages of the original song written by Phillips Brooks, highlighting the significance of Bethlehem as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The song's lyrics reflect the awe-inspiring nature of Jesus' humble birth and the hope He brings to the world.
In terms of biblical accuracy, the song aligns with the scriptural accounts of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, as prophesied by Micah. It also accurately portrays the humility and significance of Jesus' birth in a stable, emphasizing His role as the everlasting Light.
Overall, "O Little Town of Bethlehem" serves as a beautiful reminder of the profound meaning of Christmas and the divine purpose behind Jesus' birth. As we listen to this timeless carol, may we be inspired to reflect on the significance of Jesus' arrival and the hope, love, and peace He brings to our lives.
