Christmas Carol Spotlight: The First Noel

Christmas Carol Spotlight: The First Noel – The history of and lyrics to “The First Noël.” #FirstNoel #FirstNoël

“The First Noël” is a beloved Christmas carol that has endured for nearly a millenium. According to Classichistory.net, historians believe “The First Noël” was written as early as the 13th century. During that time, Miracle Plays that depicted Biblical stories were very popular in Europe, and “The First Noël” is believed to have been inspired by those plays. The song tells the story of the birth of Jesus as depicted in the Gospels of Luke and Matthew.

The First Noël Lyrics

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.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

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.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

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.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

born is the King of Israel.

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.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

born is the King of Israel.

Then entered in those Wise Men three,

full reverently upon the knee,

and offered there, in his presence,

their gold and myrrh and frankincense.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

born is the King of Israel.

Lyrics courtesy of Hymnary.org

Christmas Carol Spotlights

Here are some Christmas Carols or Christmas music spotlights. Check them out!

Be sure to check out these Christmas Songs with Storied Past!

Christmas songs with storied pasts

Article compliments of Metro Creative. HL20A301

About the Author

Steve Patterson

A Christian Blogger that enjoys blogging about the Bible, Theology, God, Jesus Christ, Christian Music, Family, Cats, Odd Holidays, sewing and much more. I have been blogging since 2004, however, I have been blogging on Courageous Christian Father since 2012. I enjoy listening to Christian Music. I am married with 1 daughter, 2 step-sons and a step daughter.

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