Hymns to the Living God ‎#122

122. The First Noel

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.
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.
Noel, noel, noel, noel!
Born is the King of Israel!

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.
Noel, noel, noel, noel!
Born is the King of Israel!

4 This star drew nigh to the northwest,
over Bethlehem it took its rest;
and there it did both stop and stay
right over the place where Jesus lay.
Noel, noel, noel, noel!
Born is the King of Israel!

5 Then entered in those wise men three,
full rev'rently upon their knee,
and offered there in His presence
their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.
Noel, noel, noel, noel!
Born is the King of Israel!

Text Information

• First Line: The first noel the angels did say
• Title: The First Noel
• Meter: Irregular
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2017
• Topic: Jesus Christ: Incarnation
• Source: Traditional English carol

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Meter: Irregular
• Key: D Major
• Source: W. Sandys Christmas Carols, 1833