The lyrics of "Three Ships" by Jon Anderson are a traditional Christmas carol that tells the story of the three ships that sailed into Bethlehem on Christmas morning, carrying the Savior Christ and his lady. The song also emphasizes the joy and celebration associated with the birth of Jesus. Let's analyze the lyrics:
1. "I saw three ships come sailing
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
I saw these ships come sailing
On Christmas day in the morning"
These opening lines describe the sight of three ships arriving on Christmas morning, setting the scene for the story.
2. "And what was in these ships all three
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
And what was in those ships all three
On Christmas day in the morning"
These lines create anticipation and curiosity about what or who is on these ships.
3. "Our savior Christ and his lady
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
Our savior Christ and his lady
On Christmas day in the morning"
Here, it is revealed that the ships carry our savior, Jesus Christ, and his lady, referring to the Virgin Mary.
4. "Pray wither sailed those ships all three
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
Pray wither sailed those ships all three
On Christmas day in the morning"
The lyrics express a desire to know where these ships have come from and where they are headed.
5. "Oh, they sailed into Bethlehem
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
Oh, they sailed into Bethlehem
On Christmas day in the morning"
The ships sailed into Bethlehem, which is significant as it is the birthplace of Jesus.
6. "And all the bells on earth shall ring
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
And all the bells on earth shall ring
On Christmas day in the morning"
These lines signify the celebration of Jesus' birth, with bells ringing to announce the joyous occasion.
7. "All the angels in heaven shall sing
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
All the angels in heaven shall sing
On Christmas day in the morning"
The lyrics convey the idea that even the angels in heaven are celebrating and singing in honor of the birth of Jesus.
8. "Oh, all the souls on earth shall sing
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
Oh, all the souls on earth shall sing
On Christmas day in the morning"
This suggests that the entire world, represented by "all the souls on earth," will join in the celebration and sing in unison on Christmas morning.
9. "Then let us all rejoice amen
On Christmas day
On Christmas day
Then let us all rejoice amen
On Christmas day in the morning"
The lyrics conclude with a call to rejoice and celebrate the birth of Jesus, ending with an "amen."
Overall, "Three Ships" is a joyful and celebratory Christmas carol that reflects the spirit of the holiday season, focusing on the significance of Jesus' birth and the universal joy it brings to people on earth and even in heaven.
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