Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella

Christmas Carol Lyrics

Bring a torch, Jeanette, Isabella
Bring a torch, to the cradle run!
It is Jesus, good folk of the village;
Christ is born and Mary's calling;
Ah! ah! beautiful is the Mother
Ah! ah! beautiful is her Son!

It is wrong when the Child is sleeping
It is wrong to talk so loud;
Silence, all, as you gather around.
Lest your noise should waken Jesus.
Hush! hush! see how fast He slumbers!
Hush! hush! see how fast He sleeps!

Hasten now, good folk of the village;
Hasten now the Christ Child to see.
You will find Him asleep in the manger;
Quietly come and whisper softly,
Hush! hush! Peacefully now He slumbers.
Hush! hush! Peacefully now He sleeps.

Softly to the little stable.
Softly for a moment come;
Look and see how charming is Jesus
How He is white, His cheeks are rosy!
Hush! hush! see how the Child is sleeping;
Hush! hush! see how He smiles in his dreams.

About This Carol

Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella is a delicate and enchanting carol that originated in 17th-century France. Known in French as Un flambeau, Jeannette, Isabelle, the song was first published in Provence around 1672, though the melody itself may have existed earlier as a dance tune. Unlike many carols, this one was not originally intended for church use but was instead part of a French folk tradition.

The lyrics tell the story of two village girls, Jeanette and Isabella, who discover the baby Jesus sleeping in a stable and rush to share the news. They urge others to come quietly, not to wake the sleeping child, creating a sense of hushed awe and childlike wonder. The imagery is intimate and heartfelt, capturing the quiet magic of the Nativity scene.

The carol’s lilting melody and simple refrain lend themselves beautifully to candlelit performances, often sung during Christmas Eve services or nativity reenactments. Its soft, reverent tone makes it feel more like a lullaby than a triumphant hymn, offering a peaceful moment of reflection amid the bustle of the season.

Though it may not be as widely known as some English-language carols, Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella continues to charm listeners with its gentle grace and timeless message of adoration.

Video Performance

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