109. The first Nowell the angel did say

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 reverently upon their 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 heavenly Lord;
that hath made Heaven and earth of nought,
and with his blood our life hath bought. [Refrain]

Text Information
First Line: The first Nowell the angel did say
Refrain First Line: Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell
Meter: Irr. with Refrain
Language: English
Publication Date: 1985
Topic: Christmas
Source: English carol, 18th cent.
Tune Information
Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
Harmonizer: John Stainer, 1840-1901
Composer (desc.): Healey Willan, 1880-1968
Meter: Irr. with Refrain
Key: D Major
Copyright: Alternative setting with descant © 1926: by permission of Oxford University Press, Inc.



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