Sir Donkey

1. Out from the lands of Orient,
Was the donkey divinely sent.
Stong and very fair was he,
Bearing our burdens gallantly.
Heigh, Sir Donkey, oh heigh.

2. Red gold from Arabia,
Frankincense from far Sheba,
Myrrh he brought and through the door
Into the church he bravely bore.
Heigh, Sir Donkey, oh heigh.

3. Stuffed with grass, yet speak and say,
“Amen,” donkey with every bray,
“Amen, amen,” say again,
Ancient sins hod in disdain.
Heigh, Sir Donkey, oh heigh.


A thirteenth century hymn (originally “Orientis Partibus”) used in Christmas pageants which evolved into “The Friendly Beasts.”  Here, not only is the donkey the bearer of the Virgin to the manger, but he also brings frankincense and myrrh.