The New English Hymnal ‎#36

36. 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, 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 wheresoever 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
Both 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: 1986
• Topic: The Christian Year: Christmas; Epiphany
• Source: Traditional

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Harmonizer: John Stainer, 1840-1901
• Meter: Irregular
• Key: C Major
• Source: English third mode melody