In dulci Jubilo

In dulci jubilo  translates to "In sweet rejoicing".  It is a traditional Christmas Carol.  The tune is very recognizable because it is the tune that is used for the popular carol, "Good Christian Men Rejoice." The origin of this melody dates back to the Middle ages. 


I listened to several choirs sing this song in the original language. My favorite was the Vienna boy's choir.


German/Latin Text: by Heinrich Suese c.1328

In dulci jubilo,
Nun singet und seid froh!
Unsers Herzens Wonne
Leit in praesepio;
Und leuchtet wie die Sonne
Matris in gremio.
Alpha es et O!


English Translation:  by Weddenburg 1567

Now let us sing with joy and mirth,
In honour of our Lordes birth,
Our heart's consolation
Lies in præsepio,
And shines as the sun,
Matris in gremio.
Alpha is and O, Alpha is and O.


English Literal Translation:

In sweet rejoicing,
now sing and be glad!
Our hearts' joy
lies in the manger;
And it shines like the sun
in the mother's lap.
You are the alpha and omega


J.S. Bach must have found the melody pleasing since he wrote several pieces based on it.
J.S.Bach's chorale prelude for the organ based on the tune (BWV 729) is a traditional postlude for Christmas services.