Oh the holly and the ivy, Now they are both full grown; Of all the trees that are in the woods The holly tree bears the crown. CHORUS: Oh, the rising of the sun, The running of the deer, The playing of the merry organ Sweet singing all in the choir. The holly tree bears a blossom, As white as any milk; And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ All wrapped up in silk. (chorus) The holly tree bears a berry, As red as any blood, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ To do poor sinners good. (chorus) And the holly tree bears a bark, As bitter as any gall, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ To do redeem us all. (chorus) The holly tree bears a prickly, As sharp as any thorn, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ On Christmas day in the morn. (chorus)