This carol, sometimes stylized as “The First Noël” or “The First Nowell,” is one of the early modern Christmas carols, circa 1820s, from the Cornish region of western England. The lyrics are largely based off the nativity story in the Gospel of Luke, although the mention of the Star of Bethlehem is from the story of the Magi in the Gospel of Matthew. In the early 1800s, the use of “Noel” for Christmas was just gaining popularity.
Originally from the French greeting “Joyeaux Noel” (“Merry Christmas”), noel comes from “natalis,” the Latin word for birth and a slight play on “nouvelles,” the word for news, as in, the “Good News.” By the end of the 1820s, Webster’s Dictionary recognized noel in the English language as, “a shout of joy or Christmas song.” Today, the main versions of the song are the New English Hymnal, the Cornish Songbook, and Carols Old And Carols New, each with significant variations, particularly in the first verse and last verses.
Lyrics
The First Noel, the Angels 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 Pause and stay
Right o'er 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 their knee
And offered there in His presence
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense
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 nought
And with his blood mankind has bought
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!