Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: rock-n-roll
Song Meaning of “O Little Town of Bethlehem” by Elvis Presley
The song “O Little Town of Bethlehem” by Elvis Presley speaks of the town that held the first Christmas miracle, Bethlehem. Through its simple melodic structure and gentle tone, Elvis’ take on this traditional English Christmas carol creates a lyrical reminder of the hope and joy that lies within the midst of struggle and pain that often characterizes our lives.
The opening lyrics of the song, “O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!”, speaks of the stillness of the night sky in which the first Christmas unfolded, resting under the stars. This was a time of great joy for both the common man and the divine. The shepherds honored the moment by rejoicing and glorifying God and the wise men presented the Christ child with gifts of “gold, and myrrh, and frankincense,” a sign of faith, respect and love.
The song progresses to the point of reflecting on the power of Christ endured through the “long that nights have come and gone,” and the reminder that “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail.” This lyrical reiteration of an indomitable belief in the power of God and the ultimate mission of the Christ child to save mankind serves to reflect the traditional Christian celebration of Christmas with hopefulness and joy.