The First Noel
"The First Noel" (also called The First Nowell) dates back to the 18th century or earlier. The word "Noel" comes from the French "Noël", meaning Christmas.
The First Noel
Christmas Carol
1. The first Noel the angels 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.
(Chorus)
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
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.
(Chorus)
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 where ever it went.
(Chorus)
4. This star drew nigh to the north-west;
O'er Bethlehem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay
Right over the place where Jesus lay.
(Chorus)
5. Then entered in those Wise Men three,
Fell reverently upon their knee,
And offered there in his presence,
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.
(Chorus)
6. Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord
That hath made heaven and earth of naught,
And with his blood mankind hath bought.
(Chorus)
You can hear the 1st three verses and the chorus in the mp3 below.
Sung by Claire Goget, Sarah Marshall, Ashley Hunter and Jeremy P.
Thanks and Acknowledgements
There are several versions of this carol. This version comes from "Carols, New and Old" (1871).
Image: The Annunciation to the Shepherds, Abraham Hondius, Dutch, 1663.
