Full Lyrics
It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth
To touch their harps of gold.
"Peace on the earth, good will to men,
From heaven's all-gracious King."
The world in solemn stillness lay,
To hear the angels sing.
For lo, the days are hastening on,
By prophet bards foretold,
When with the ever-circling years
Comes round the age of gold.
About This Song
"It Came Upon the Midnight Clear" was written by Edmund Hamilton Sears in 1849, with a melody composed by Richard Storrs Willis in 1850. It is one of the earliest American Christmas carols and focuses on the angels' message of peace.
Unlike many Christmas songs that center on the nativity story itself, this carol emphasizes the timeless message of peace on earth. Its gentle, reflective tone makes it ideal for quiet moments of the holiday season.
The imagery of angels with golden harps singing over a still, peaceful world creates a magical picture that children find both calming and inspiring.