The First Noël

The First Noël (also known as The First Nowell) is among the oldest songs now sung as a Christmas carol. The song is believed to be of Cornish origin, which means it can be traced to an ethnic group associated with the historic county of Cornwall in southwest England. According to Classichistory.net, historians believe The First Noël was written as early as the 13th century. During that time, Miracle Plays that depicted Biblical stories were very popular in Europe, and The First Noël is believed to have been inspired by those plays. The song tells the story of the birth of Jesus as depicted in the Gospels of Luke and Matthew.

The First Noël

The first Noel 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.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel. 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. 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. 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.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel. Then entered in those Wise Men three, full reverently upon the knee, and offered there, in his presence, their gold and myrrh and frankincense.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel. (Lyrics courtesy of Hymnary. org)