The first nowell

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.

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

They loo-ked 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 where-ever it went.

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

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.

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

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.

English traditional (Sandys, 1833, arr. John Stainer (1840-1901)