Joy to the World

Written by Isaac Watts in 1719 and published in his collection "The Psalms of David: Imitated in the Language of the New Testament." It is based on Psalm 98 and was originally conceived not as a celebration of Christ's birth, but as a reflection on His second coming and the establishment of His kingdom. The melody most commonly sung today was arranged by American composer Lowell Mason in 1848, titled "Antioch," and published in his edition of "The National Psalmist." Mason's arrangement incorporated musical themes from George Frideric Handel's "Messiah," with the first four notes identical to the chorus "Lift up your heads" from Handel's oratorio, creating the familiar tune that has made it one of the most popular Christmas carols worldwide.