The First Noel -- Hymn with Lyrics

 

1. The first Nowell the angel did say
was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay,
in fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Refrain:
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
born is the King of Israel.

2. They looked up and saw a star
shining in the east beyond them far;
and to the earth it gave great light,
and so it continued both day and night. [Refrain]

3. And by the light of that same star
three wise men came from country far;
to seek for a king was their intent,
and to follow the star wherever it went. [Refrain]

4. This star drew nigh to the northwest;
o’er Bethlehem it took its rest,
and there it did both stop and stay,
right over the place where Jesus lay. [Refrain]

5. Then entered in those wise men three,
full reverently upon their knee,
and offered there in his presence
their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense. [Refrain]

6. Then let us all with one accord
sing praises to our heavenly Lord,
that hath made heaven and earth of nought,
and with his blood our life hath bought. [Refrain]

Scripture; 

Matthew 1:1-12; 

Mark 1:9-11; Luke 2; John 1:1-3

The hymn "The First Noel" is believed to date back to the 17th century, though its exact origin is somewhat unclear. The hymn first appeared in print in 1833 in a collection titled Carols Ancient and Modern, edited by William Sandys, who is often credited with popularizing it.

However, the carol likely existed as a folk song for some time before it was published. It is thought to have been sung in the West Country of England (especially in Cornwall), and the word "Noel" comes from the French word for Christmas, which also means "birth."

The hymn is known for its simple, yet powerful retelling of the story of Christ’s birth and the events surrounding it, making it a beloved part of Christmas carol traditions.