Rejoice in the Lord ‎#223

223. The First Nowell

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

Refrain:
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. (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,
fell 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,
who hath made heaven and earth of nought,
and with his blood our life hath bought. (Refrain)

Text Information

• First Line: The first Nowell the angel did say
• Title: The First Nowell
• Refrain First Line: Noel, noel
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1985
• Scripture:
  Matthew 2:1-11
• Topic: Jesus Christ: Epiphany and Youth
• Source: English traditional carol

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Key: D Major
• Source: Traditional melody; Bramley and Stainer, Christmas Carols Old and New (1871) (harmonized in)