Who wrote The 'Huron Carol'?
Jean de Brébeuf wrote the 'Huron Carol' in 1642 when he was a Jesuit missionary at Sainte-Marie with the Hurons in Canada. He wrote the song titled, 'Jesous Ahatonhia' ('Jesus, he is born') in the native language of the Huron/Wendat people.
The Christmas carol was translated and adapted into English in 1926 by Jesse Edgar Middleton. It is also known as 'Twas in the Moon of Wintertime'.
What is the 'Huron Carol' about?
The song is about the nativity but because of its native American origins has variations to the traditional Christmas story.
'The Huron Carol' lyrics
'Twas in the moon of winter-time When all the birds had fled, That mighty Gitchi Manitou Sent angel choirs instead; Before their light the stars grew dim, And wandering hunters heard the hymn: "Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria."
Within a lodge of broken bark The tender Babe was found, A ragged robe of rabbit skin Enwrapp'd His beauty round; But as the hunter braves drew nigh, The angel song rang loud and high... "Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria."
The earliest moon of wintertime Is not so round and fair As was the ring of glory On the helpless infant there. The chiefs from far before him knelt With gifts of fox and beaver pelt. "Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria."
O children of the forest free, O sons of Manitou, The Holy Child of earth and heaven Is born today for you. Come kneel before the radiant Boy Who brings you beauty, peace and joy. "Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria."