The Worshipbook ‎#585

585. 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,
Fell reverently upon their knee,
And offered there in his presence,
Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense. [Refrain]

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: The first Nowell the angel did say
• Title: The First Nowell the Angel Did Say
• Refrain First Line: Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell
• Meter: Irregular
• Publication Date: 1972
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:1-20
• Topic: Christian Year: Christmas
• Source: Traditional English carol

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Harmonizer: John Stainer (1871)
• Meter: Irregular
• Key: D Major
• Source: Traditional English carol