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.



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 lily flower;

And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ

To be our sweet Savior.



The holly bears a berry

As red as any blood;

Any 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 holly and the ivy,

When they are both full grown,

Of all the trees that are in the wood,

The holly bears the crown