John Henry Hopkins Jr. was a clergyman, musician, and hymn-writer, best known as the composer of the beloved Christmas carol We Three Kings of Orient Are. He initially pursued a career in law but eventually found his calling in the Episcopal Church, becoming a deacon and later serving as a rector at Christ Episcopal Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
In addition to his ministry, he was a passionate advocate for church music. He wrote several hymns, hymnals, and instructional texts on liturgical music, helping to shape the role of music in Episcopal worship.
About the Song
We Three Kings is a classic Christmas carol that tells the story of the Magi traveling to visit the newborn Christ. Its rich melody and poetic lyrics have made it a timeless favorite for holiday celebrations.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | 1857 |
| Album | NA |
| Writers | John Henry Hopkins Jr. |
| Producers | NA |
We Three Kings Lyrics by John Henry Hopkins Jr.
Verse 1: All
We three kings of orient are
Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain
Moor and mountain
Following yonder star
Chorus: All
O star of wonder, star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light
Verse 2: Melchior
Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain
Gold I bring to crown Him again
King for ever, ceasing never
Over us all to reign
Chorus: All
O star of wonder, star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light
Verse 3: Casper
Frankincense to offer have I
Incense owns a Deity nigh
Prayer and praising, all men raising
Worship Him, God most high
Chorus: All
O star of wonder, star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light
Verse 4: Balthazar
Myrrh is mine
Its bitter perfume breathes
A life of gathering gloom
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying
Sealed in the stone cold tomb
Chorus: All
O star of wonder, star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light
Verse 5: All
Glorious now behold Him arise
King and God and Sacrifice!
Al-le-lu-ia, al-le-lu-ia
Heaven to earth replies
Chorus: All
O star of wonder, star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light
Similar Songs Like We Three Kings
Here’s a list of similar Christmas songs by other artists like We Three Kings that you might like:
- God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen: It is a traditional English carol that offers comfort and peace. With its simple yet compelling melody, it explains the true meaning of Christmas.
- Good Christian Men, Rejoice: This festive hymn calls all believers to celebrate the birth of Christ. Its cheerful rhythm and straightforward lyrics make it a warm and welcoming carol.
- Hark! The Herald Angels Sing: It is a hymn of celebration and praise, this song rejoices in the gift of Christ and the promise of peace on Earth. Its grand, triumphant melody and rich words make it a cornerstone of the holiday season.
Similar Artists Like John Henry Hopkins Jr.
If you are into Christmas carol songs or are interested to browse more artists, here’s a list of recommendations that you might like:
- Charles Wesley
Genre: Hymns, Sacred Music
Top Works: Hark! The Herald Angels SingCome, Thou Long Expected Jesus - Isaac Watts
Genre: Hymns, Sacred Music
Top Works: Joy to the World, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross - James Montgomery
Genre: Hymns, Sacred Music
Top Works: Angels from the Realms of Glory - Edmund Sears
Genre: Hymns, Sacred Music
Top Works: It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is We Three Kings Significant?
It was the first American Christmas carol to achieve widespread popularity and remains a staple in holiday celebrations worldwide.
What are the Main Themes of the Song?
The song narrates the path of the Magi, their gifts for Jesus (gold, frankincense, and myrrh), and their symbolic meanings: kingship, deity, and death.
What Bible Passage is Associated with the Carol?
The song is based on Matthew 2:1–12, which describes the visit of the Magi following a star to find Jesus.
