Background
- Original: The song “Mary, Did You Know?” was written by Mark Lowry (lyrics) and Buddy Greene (music) in 1984. It’s become a modern Christmas classic, covered by many artists.
- Pentatonix: The a cappella group Pentatonix released their stunning version in 2014 on their album “That’s Christmas to Me”. Their arrangement is known for its intricate harmonies and emotional delivery.
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Pentatonix – Mary Did You Know Lyrics
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy
Has come to make you new?
This child that you delivered, will soon deliver you
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will calm the storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy
Has walked where angels trod?
When you kiss your little baby
You kiss the face of God
Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
The blind will see, the deaf will hear
The dead will live again
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak
The praises of the Lamb
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy
Is heaven’s perfect Lamb?
That sleeping child you’re holding is the great, I Am
Mary, did you know? (Mary, did you know?)
Mary, did you know? (Mary, did you know?)
Mary, did you know? Oh
The Song’s Meaning
The song takes the form of questions posed to the Virgin Mary, contemplating the extraordinary nature of her son, Jesus Christ. The lyrics explore:
- Mary’s possible awareness: Did Mary fully understand the divine significance of her child and the miracles he would perform?
- Jesus’s dual nature: The song highlights the juxtaposition of Jesus’s humble birth as a baby and his role as a powerful savior.
- Messianic prophecy: It subtly references the prophecies about the coming Messiah and their fulfillment in Jesus.
Themes
- Awe and wonder: The lyrics foster a sense of amazement at the events of the nativity and the destiny of Jesus.
- Faith: The song raises questions about Mary’s faith and the faith of those who believe in Jesus as the Christ
- Humility and Power: Contrasts the humble setting of Jesus’s birth with the vastness of his impact on the world.
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Why Pentatonix’s Version is Special
Pentatonix’s arrangement emphasizes the emotional and spiritual depth of the song. Their signature style includes:
- Complex harmonies: Their layered vocals create a rich, textured soundscape.
- Dynamic shifts: Transitions between soft, delicate moments and powerful crescendos.Emotion: Their expressive singing conveys the contemplative and awe-inspiring nature of the lyrics.
