The first Nowell

The first "Nowell", the Angels 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.
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 nigh to the north-west,
O'er Bethlehem it took its rest,
And there it did both Pause and stay
Right o'er 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 has bought.
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
Born is the King of Israel!