Star of the East (song) facts for kids
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Star of the East is a well-known Christmas carol that has been sung for a long time. It was first called "Stern über Bethlehem", which means "Star over Bethlehem" in German. This beautiful song became popular in the late 1800s.
Contents
The Story Behind the Song
Who Wrote the Words?
The words for "Star of the East" were written by a poet named George Cooper. He was from New York and wrote the lyrics in 1890. A lyricist is someone who writes the words for songs.
Who Wrote the Music?
The music for this carol was put together by a talented composer named Amanda Kennedy. She created the tune in 1883. Interestingly, she first wrote this music for a different song called "Star of the Sea." Later, it was used for "Star of the East." A composer is someone who writes music.
Other Similar Songs
It's easy to get "Star of the East" mixed up with other songs that have similar names. For example, there's an American folk song called "Star in the East." There's also an English carol known as "Star of the East" or "Brightest and Best." Even though they sound alike, they are different songs!
Famous Recordings
Over the years, many artists have sung "Star of the East." One very famous singer, Judy Garland, recorded her version of the song in 1941.
Lyrics
The lyrics of "Star of the East" tell a story about the Star of Bethlehem, which guided people to Jesus. They speak of hope, peace, and faith. Here are the words:
Star of the East, Oh Bethlehem's star,
Guiding us on to Heaven afar!
Sorrow and grief and lull'd by thy light,
Thou hope of each mortal, in death's lonely night!
Fearless and tranquil, we look up to Thee!
Knowing thou beam'st thro' eternity!
Help us to follow where Thou still dost guide,
Pilgrims of earth so wide.
Star of the East, thou hope of the soul,
While round us here the dark billows roll,
Lead us from sin to glory afar,
Thou star of the East, thou sweet Bethlehem's star.
Star of the East, un-dim'd by each cloud,
What tho' the storms of grief gather loud?
Faithful and pure thy rays beam to save,
Still bright o'er the cradle, and bright o'er the grave!
Smiles of a Saviour are mirror'd in Thee!
Glimpses of Heav'n in thy light we see!
Guide us still onward to that blessed shore,
After earth's toil is o'er!
Star of the East, thou hope of the soul,
While round us here the dark billows roll,
Lead us from sin to glory afar,
Thou star of the East, thou sweet Bethlehem's star.
Oh star that leads to God above!
Whose rays are peace and joy and love!
Watch o'er us still till life hath ceased,
Beam on, bright star, sweet Bethlehem star!
 | Calvin Brent |
 | Walter T. Bailey |
 | Martha Cassell Thompson |
 | Alberta Jeannette Cassell |
