Church Hymnary (4th ed.) ‎#323

323. The first Nowell the angel did say

1 The first Nowell the angel did say
was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
in fields where they lay a-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 lookèd 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 north-west,
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 naught,
and with his blood mankind hath bought. [Refrain]

Text Information

• First Line: The first Nowell the angel did say
• Refrain First Line: Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell
• Meter: Irregular
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2005
• Scripture:
  Hebrews 9:12
  ;
  John 1:3
  ;
  John 1:49
  ;
  John 12:13
  ;
  Luke 2:8-14
  ;
  Matthew 2:1-12
  ;
  Matthew 27:42
• Topic: Life in Christ: Christ Incarnate - Christmas and Epiphany; Christian Year: Season of Epiphany
• Source: English traditional carol

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Harmonizer: David Evans (1874-1948)
• Meter: Irregular
• Key: D Major