We Three Kings of Orient AreChristmas Carol LyricsWe three kings of Orient are
Chorus
Born a king on Bethlehem's plain,
Frankincense to offer have I.
Myrrh is mine: Its bitter perfume
Glorious now behold Him arise,
History Of This CarolWe Three Kings of Orient Are is a richly atmospheric carol written in 1857 by John Henry Hopkins Jr., an American clergyman, writer, and music teacher. Hopkins originally composed it for a Christmas pageant at the General Theological Seminary in New York, making it one of the rare carols for which both the lyrics and the melody were created by the same person. The song quickly spread beyond the seminary and became a popular addition to hymnals across the United States and beyond. The carol tells the story of the Magi and their long journey to visit the infant Jesus. Each king sings a verse that explains the symbolic meaning of his gift. Gold honors Jesus as king, frankincense reflects his divinity, and myrrh foreshadows the sorrows he would one day bear. This structure gives the song a narrative quality that feels almost theatrical. The melody itself has a slightly exotic, wandering character, which adds to the sense of travel and mystery. Its minor key opening creates a feeling of anticipation before resolving into a brighter chorus that celebrates the guiding star. This contrast between solemnity and joy is part of what makes the carol so memorable. Over the years, We Three Kings has become a favorite for both church choirs and community performances. Its storytelling, symbolism, and distinctive tune give it a place of honor among Christmas carols that explore the deeper layers of the Nativity story. Choral Performance Video |