The Holly and the Ivy

By: English Traditional

Verse 1

The holly and the ivy, When they are both full grown, Of all trees that are in the wood, The holly bears the crown

Chorus 1

O, the rising of the sun, And the running of the deer The playing of the merry organ, Sweet singing in the choir.

Verse 2

The holly bears a blossom, As white as lily flow'r, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, To be our dear Saviour

Verse 3

The holly bears a berry, As red as any blood, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, To do poor sinners good

Verse 4

The holly bears a prickle, As sharp as any thorn, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, On Christmas Day in the morn

Verse 5

The holly bears a bark, As bitter as the gall, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, For to redeem us all

Verse 6

The holly and the ivy, When they are both full grown, Of all trees that are in the wood, The holly bears the crown