Oh the holly and the ivy,
Now they are both full grown;
Of all the trees that are in the woods
The holly tree bears the crown.
CHORUS:
Oh, the rising of the sun,
The running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing all in the choir.
The holly tree bears a blossom,
As white as any milk;
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
All wrapped up in silk.
(chorus)
The holly tree bears a berry,
As red as any blood,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do poor sinners good.
(chorus)
And the holly tree bears a bark,
As bitter as any gall,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do redeem us all.
(chorus)
The holly tree bears a prickly,
As sharp as any thorn,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
On Christmas day in the morn.
(chorus)