Journeysongs (2nd ed.) ‎#363

363. 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 keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.

Refrain:
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
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,
Full rev'rently upon the 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 heav'nly Lord;
Who with the Father we adore
And Spirit blest for evermore. [Refrain]

Text Information

• First Line: The first Nowell, the angel did say
• Title: The First Nowell
• Refrain First Line: Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2003
• Source: Trad. English Carol, 17th cent.; V. 6, alt.

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Key: D Major
• Source: Trad. English Carol, 17th cent.