The First Noel

“The First Noel” is a traditional English carol that dates back to the mid-19th century.  It is believed to have originated in Cornwall, England.  It is likely to be based on a 16th century French carol and is usually performed in English, even though there are some versions in Cornish and French.

The carol is also known by several other titles, such as "The First Nowell", “The First Nowell of Bethlehem'' and  "The First Noël of Christmas". 

The lyrics tell the story of Jesus’ birth and his parents’ journey to Bethlehem.  It starts with the angels telling the shepherds in the fields to go to Bethlehem to see the Christ child.  They go to Bethlehem and find the baby Jesus lying in a manger.  The song ends with a call to all believers to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

The song shares the message that Jesus is the saviour of the world and that His birth should be celebrated with love and joy.

The song is traditionally sung with a descant.  One voice sings a higher pitch than the main melody.  Here are the lyrics to this carol.

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 north west 

O'er Bethlehem it took its rest 

And there it did both stop 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 hath bought 

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel 

Born is the King of Israel

“The First Noel” has become one of the most popular Christmas carols of all time.  It placed fourth in the Top Ten Christmas Carols list.

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