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.
Chorus
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.
Nowell, etc.
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.
Nowell, etc.
4. 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.
Nowell, etc.
5. Then did they know assuredly
Within that house, the King did lie
One entered in then for to see
And found the babe in poverty.
Nowell, etc.
6. Then entered in those wise men three,
Full reverently upon their knee,
And offered there, in His Presence,
Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.
Nowell, etc.
7. Between an ox stall and an ass,
This Child truly there born he was;
For want of clothing they did him lay
All in a manger, among the hay.
Nowell, etc.
8. 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.
Nowell, etc.
9. If we in our time shall do well
We shall be free from death and Hell
For God hath prepared for us all
A resting place in general.
Nowell, etc.