The First Nowell

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
In a cold winter's night that was so deep

Nowell, nowell, nowell, nowell
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

Nowell, nowell, nowell, nowell
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

Nowell, nowell, nowell, nowell
Born is the King of Israel

This star drew night 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, nowell, nowell, nowell
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

Nowell, nowell, nowell, nowell
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

Nowell, nowell, nowell, nowell
Born is the King of Israel