The Holly and The Ivy

This is an older English Carol, which probably is connected to a pre-Christian tradition. It does explain why people continued to use holly around the yule-time, and how it was associated with Christ to make it acceptable.

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

Chorus:
O the rising of the sun
and the running of the deer
the playing of the merry organ
sweet singing in the choir

The holly bears a blossom
as white as the lily flower
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our sweet Saviour

The holly bears a berry
as red as any blood
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
to do poor sinners good

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

The holly bears a bark
as bitter as any gall
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
for to redeem us all

* the references to the thorns and bark are probably symbolic of the crucifixion of Christ.

last updated on September 22, 1999, by Strawberry