The holly and the ivy
When they are both full grown
Of all the trees out in the wood
The holly bears the crown

O the rising of the Sun
And the running of the deer
And the playing of merry organ
Sweet singing, all can hear
Sweet singing, all can hear

The holly bears a blossom
As bright as a lily flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
Bloomed forth in sweet colour

O the rising of the Sun
And the running of the deer
And the playing of merry organ
Sweet singing, all can hear
Sweet singing, all can hear

The holly bears a berry
As red as any blood
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
Embodied humble love

O the rising of the Sun
And the running of the deer
And the playing of merry organ
Sweet singing, all can hear
Sweet singing, all can hear

Sweet singing, all can hear
Sweet singing, all can hear
Sweet singing, all can hear
Sweet singing, all can hear
Sweet singing, all

O the rising of the Sun
And the running of the deer
And the playing of merry organ
Sweet singing all can hear
Sweet singing all can hear