God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” is one of the oldest English Christmas carols. The words were written by an unknown author and the melody is traditional and of unknown origin.  The lyrics to this 15th or 16th century song are thought to be a plea for peace among men and the call to the listener to be merry, despite the troubles of life.  

The phrase “God rest you merry” means “may God grant you peace and happiness”.  During the Christmas season we often greet people today and say ‘Merry Christmas’.  Back in the 1500’s the phrase ‘God Rest Ye Merry’ was often used to wish someone a peaceful and joyous holiday season.

This popular Christmas Carol has been recorded by many artists. Here are the lyrics often  used today.  

God rest ye merry, gentlemen 

Let nothing you dismay 

Remember, Christ, our Saviour 

Was born on Christmas Day 

To save us all from Satan's power 

When we were gone astray 

O tidings of comfort and joy, 

Comfort and joy 

O tidings of comfort and joy.

In Bethlehem, in Israel

This blessed Babe was born

And laid within a manger

Upon this blessed morn

The which His Mother Mary

Did nothing take in scorn

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

Comfort and joy

Oh tidings of comfort and joy.

Fear not then, said the Angel

Let nothing you affright

This day is born a Saviour

Of a pure Virgin bright

To free all those who trust in Him

From Satan’s pow’r and might

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

Comfort and joy

Oh tidings of comfort and joy.

God rest ye merry gentlemen

Let nothing you dismay

Remember Christ our Saviour

Was born on Christmas Day

To save us all from Satan's pow'r

When we were gone astray

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

Comfort and joy

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

May God rest ye merry.  I trust you are enjoying a peaceful and happy holiday this Christmas time. 

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