Lyrics — “He Shall Feed His Flock Like a Shepherd”

(from Messiah, Part I)

This aria actually exists in two versions in Handel’s Messiah:

• Version 1: for soprano (1741 Dublin premiere)

• Version 2: for alto (slightly later revision)
  Sometimes performances alternate or combine them.

Text (KJV, Isaiah 40:11 & Matthew 11:28–29)

He shall feed His flock like a shepherd:
and He shall gather the lambs with His arm,
and carry them in His bosom,
and gently lead those that are with young.

Come unto Him, all ye that labour
and are heavy laden,
and He will give you rest.
Take His yoke upon you, and learn of Him;
for He is meek and lowly of heart,
and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

Musical Analysis

1. Structure

The aria is pastoral in character and unfolds in two main sections:

1. Isaiah 40:11 – “He shall feed His flock…”

   • Gentle, flowing melody.

   • Often sung by alto or soprano.

   • Pastoral 12/8 or 6/8 feel (depending on edition), creating a rocking motion reminiscent of shepherds and lambs.

   • Key: typically in F major (warm, serene).

2. Matthew 11:28–29 – “Come unto Him…”

   • More lyrical, sometimes assigned to a different soloist in performance.

   • Still gentle, but with a slightly more forward motion, inviting the listener personally to respond to the call.

2. Word Painting & Musical Imagery

• “Feed His flock… gather the lambs…” — the flowing arpeggiated accompaniment evokes tenderness, the shepherd’s calm care.

• “Carry them in His bosom” — descending melodic lines feel like an embrace, drawing the listener inward.

• “Gently lead” — Handel softens both dynamics and texture, reflecting gentleness literally in the sound.

• “Come unto Him” — the melodic contour rises warmly, as though reaching out.

• “Rest unto your souls” — ends with long sustained notes, musically “resting” in peace.

3. Dramatic Role in Messiah

Placed near the end of Part I, this aria follows the more declarative and prophetic numbers about the coming of the Messiah (“O Thou That Tellest,” “For Unto Us a Child Is Born”). It serves as a moment of pastoral intimacy before the celebration of Christ’s birth in “Glory to God.”
It shifts from prophecy (Old Testament) to direct invitation (New Testament), bridging the two covenants musically and textually.

4. Emotional & Theological Function

This aria changes the tone from grandeur to quiet reassurance. After proclaiming the Messiah’s coming, Handel pauses to show His tenderness. In performance, it’s often a moment where the audience seems to exhale — it’s intimate, almost private.