Meaning of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" by Frank Sinatra

The lyrics of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" convey the central message of the Christian holiday, that being the birth of Jesus Christ. The hymn is a jubilant proclamation of the coming of the Messiah and the theologically significant events that surround it. By beginning with the phrase "Hark! the herald angels sing," the song commands attention and demands that listeners take notice and listen to the joyful announcement.

The lyrics go on to declare that Jesus, the newborn King, brings glory to God and reconciles sinners to Him. This reflects the Christian belief in the redemptive power of Jesus' birth, as it signifies the possibility of forgiveness and salvation for all. It emphasizes the idea that with the coming of Jesus, peace can be found on earth and mercy can be extended to even the most imperfect individuals.

The lyrics also explore the divinity of Jesus Christ. By referring to him as the "christ, the everlasting Lord," the song establishes his eternal nature and his elevated status in the spiritual realm. It highlights his incarnation as the "veil'd in flesh, the Godhead see" and emphasizes his willingness to dwell among people as both God and man, known as the doctrine of the incarnation. This aspect of the song deepens the theological significance of Jesus' birth, suggesting that it was a divine plan to bridge the gap between God and humanity.

In the final verses, the hymn introduces Jesus as the "heav'n-born Prince of peace" and the "Son of Righteousness." This imagery further emphasizes his divine attributes and the transformative power he brings. Jesus is depicted as the source of light, life, and healing, symbolizing hope and salvation for all. The lyrics state that through his birth, he was destined to raise humanity from their fallen state and grant them a second birth, emphasizing the Christian belief in the possibility of spiritual rebirth through faith in Jesus Christ.