86. O holy night
The night of the Saviour’s birth is the subject of Christmas carols in every land, of which this and “Silent Night” are outstanding examples. The words are anonymous.
The omitted third stanza reads as follows:
Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains shall he break for the slave is our brother,
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymn of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name;
Christ is the Lord, Oh, praise His name forever!
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
MUSIC. The tune, HOLY NIGHT, is by Adolphe Adam, 1803-56, distinguished French composer of comic operas and teacher of composition. He became a professor in the Conservatory of Music in Paris in 1849.