eHymns.org

Old English Carol in 1833

Unknown in 1833

Alvin (Bud) Herman Manz in 2005

THE FIRST NOEL. Irregular with Refrain

Traditional melody, from W. Sandys' Christmas Carols published in 1833.
Harmonized by John Stainer.

The first Noel 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.

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.

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.

Then entered in, those wise men three,
Full rev'rently 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.