The First Nowell

1. The first Nowell the angels did sayWas 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.

2. They lookèd 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:

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 whersoever it went:

4. This star drew nigh to the north-west;O'er Bethlehem it took its rest;And there it did both stop and stayRight over the place where Jesus lay:

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:

6. Then let us all with one accordSing praises to our heavenly LordThat hath made heaven and earth of nought,And with his blood mankind hath bought: