Here are the ancient songs that helped shape the spirit of Christmas itself. In the fourth century, the great Syriac poet Ephrem the Syrian composed a cycle of hymns so alive with wonder that they changed how generations imagine the night of Christ's birth: a manger glowing in the dark, the Creator wrapped in swaddling bands, shepherds astonished, and kings following a star. This fresh, faithful modern-English edition preserves the depth and splendor of Ephrem's imagery in language today's reader can enter without difficulty. Drawing on Scripture and the poetry of the desert, he gives voice to Mary's humility, Joseph's quiet faith, the joy of angels, and the tears of Bethlehem. An introduction, glossary, and reading guide make this an ideal gateway to one of the world's most beloved Christian classics, for seekers and lifelong readers alike. Part of The World Scriptures Library.