☝️ Key Points
- 'Silent Night' tells the story of the birth of Jesus Christ on a peaceful and holy night.
- The song mentions the Virgin Mary and the newborn baby Jesus, described as gentle and mild, symbolizing his purity and innocence.
- The words 'Sleep in heavenly peace' can be interpreted as a prayer or a wish for the baby Jesus to sleep in heavenly peace.
- The shepherds' reaction to the birth of Jesus, their awe and the singing of the angels, the 'Hallelujah', emphasize the joy and praise for this wonderful event.
- The lines 'Christ the saviour is born' announce the birth of Christ, the Savior, and emphasize the significance of Jesus' birth for the Christian faith.
Interpretation
The lyrics of 'Silent Night' by
Elvis Presley, originally a traditional Christmas carol, tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ.
'Silent night, holy night. All is calm, all is bright.' These lines describe the peaceful and holy night of Jesus' birth. Everything is calm and bright, indicating the peaceful nature of this night.
'Round yon virgin mother and child. Holy infant so tender and mild.' Here, the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the newborn baby Jesus are mentioned. The 'holy child' is Jesus, described as tender and mild, symbolizing his purity and innocence.
'Sleep in heavenly peace. Sleep in heavenly peace.' These lines can be interpreted as a wish or prayer for the baby Jesus to sleep in heavenly peace.
In the second verse 'Shepherds quake at the sight. Glorious strains from heaven afar. Heavenly hosts sing alleluia.' the reaction of the shepherds to Jesus' birth is described. They are amazed and reverent at the sight. The heavenly hosts, the angels, sing 'Hallelujah', an expression of praise and joy.
'Christ the saviour is born. Christ the saviour is born.' These lines proclaim the birth of Christ, the savior. They are the climax of the song and emphasize the significance of Jesus' birth for the Christian faith.
Overall, 'Silent Night' is a solemn portrayal of Jesus' birth and its significance as the savior of humanity.