I found the lyrics in a shape-note hymnal. They are likely more accurate than the ones found above, IMHO. And they are a bit more poetic.


BEAUTIFUL STAR OF BETHLEHEM
(Adger M. Pace/R. Fisher Boyce)

1. O beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shining afar through shadows dim,
Giving the light for those who long have gone,
And guiding the wise men on their way,
Unto the place where Jesus lay,
Beautiful star of Bethlehem, shine on.

CHORUS: O beautiful star (beautiful, beautiful star) of Bethlehem (of Bethlehem),
Shine upon us until the glory dawn (glory dawn).
Give us a light to light the way
Into the land of perfect day.
Beautiful star of Bethlehem, shine on.

2. O beautiful star, the hope of light,
Guiding the pilgrim through the night,
Over the mountain 'til the break of dawn,
And into the light of perfect day,
It will give out a lovely ray.
Beautiful star of Bethlehem, shine on.

3. O beautiful star, the hope of rest
For the redeemed, the good and blest,
Yonder in glory when the crown is won,
For Jesus is now the star divine,
Brighter and brighter He will shine.
Beautiful star of Bethlehem, shine on.