An Nollaig Theas
Lyrics and Music: Tim Dennehy
Accordions: Josephine Marsh
The first verse is a traditional prayer recited by families at Christmastime. I was so taken by its beautiful simplicity that I added a refrain and two more verses. In Ireland the Holy Family was shown a symbolic welcome on Christmas Eve by lighting a candle in each window, leaving the door unlocked, lighting a fire and placing food and drink on the table. Thus Mary and Joseph would know they were welcome if they wished to spend the night.
Dia do bheatha 'dir asal is damh gan riar
Dia do bheatha id' leanbh, id Fhlaith gan chiach
Dia do bheatha ód' Fhlaithis go teach na bpian
Dia do bheathasa 'Íosa.
Dún do shúil a Rí an tSolais, dún do shúile ríoga
Dún do shúil a Shaoi an tSonais, dún do shúile síoda.
Tá bóithrín fada fágtha id' dhiaidh
Dia do bheatha id' leanbh id' Fhlaith gan chiach.
Gach doras druidte is tú gan bia
Dia do bheathasa 'Iosa.
Dún do shúil a Rí an tSolais, dún do shúile ríoga.
Dún do shúil a Rí an tSonais, dún do shuile síoda.
Tá fáilte is fiche romhat sa Ríocht
Dia do bheatha id' leanbh, id' Fhlaith gan chiach
Tá teas is deoch is leaba righin,
Dia do bheathasa 'Íosa.
Dún do shúil a Rí an tSolais, dún do shúile ríoga.
Dún do shúil a Ri an tSonais, dún do shúile síoda.
Translation:
God's greeting to you untended 'tween ox and ass
God's greeting to you Child and Prince serene
God's greeting to you from heaven to the hour of pain
God's greeting to you dear Jesus.
Close your eyes oh King of light, close your regal eyes
Close your eyes oh fount of happiness, close your silken eyes.
Verse 2: You have travelled a long weary road. Each door was barred though you craved for food.
Verse 3: You are welcome tonight in the Kingdom. There is heat and drink and a sturdy bed.