Eduard Ebel (1839–1905) was a German Protestant clergyman, poet, and songwriter. He is best known for writing the lyrics to one of Germany's most famous Christmas carols, "Leise rieselt der Schnee" (Softly Falls the Snow).
Born on July 7, 1839, in Stargard an der Ihna (now Stargard, Poland), Ebel pursued a career in the church after studying theology. In 1872, he was appointed as a pastor and superintendent in Graudenz (now Grudziądz, Poland), where he served for several decades. Alongside his ecclesiastical duties, Ebel was active in literary pursuits, composing numerous poems and hymns.
His most enduring work, "Leise rieselt der Schnee," was first published in 1895 in his poetry collection Gesammelte Gedichte (Collected Poems) under the title "Weihnachtsgruß" (Christmas Greeting). While Ebel is the confirmed author of the lyrics, the origin of the melody is subject to some historical debate; it is frequently attributed to Ebel himself, though some sources suggest it may have been adapted from an existing folk melody. The song remains a standard part of the German Christmas repertoire, noted for its depiction of a peaceful winter landscape and the anticipation of the holiday.
Ebel retired from his position as superintendent in 1904 and moved to Halle (Saale). He died there on January 30, 1905. His contributions to German advent and Christmas traditions through "Leise rieselt der Schnee" continue to be recognized in the modern era.