The First Noel

The First Nowell also called The First Noel, is a traditional English Christmas carol, most likely from the 16th or 17th century, but possibly dating from as early as the 13th century.

baby lamb

This Christmas Carol has 9 verses, the words here are for 4 verses.

The First Noel

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

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 wisemen three,
Full reverently upon their knee,
And offered there, in His presence
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.

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

Fun Facts About Chrismas Carols

The word Nowell comes from the French word Noel meaning "Christmas", from the Latin word natalis "birth".
It may also be from the Gaulish words "noio" or "neu" meaning "new" and "helle" meaning "light" referring to the winter solstice when sunlight begins overtaking darkness.

Free Christmas Carol Songbook/sheetmusic from Cantorion.com has 24 popular Christmas carols for you to download.

Printable Christmas Song Games to use at a holiday party

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The First Noel

The First Noel

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