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. CHORUS: O the rusing of the sun, And the running of the deer, The laying of the merry organ, Sweet singing all in the choir, The holly bears a berry, As red as any blood, And Mary bore sweet Jesus, To do poor sinners good. CHORUS The holly bears a blossom, As white as lily flower, And Mary bore sweet Jesus, To be our sweet Saviour. CHORUS The holly bears a bark, As bitter as any gall, And Mary bore sweet Jesus, For to redeem us all CHORUS The holly bears a prickle, As sharp as any thorn, And Mary bore sweet Jesus, On Christmas Day in the morn. CHORUS Oh the holly bears a flower, As white as any milk, And Mary bore sweet Jesus All wrapped up in silk.