All-4-One - The First Noel Lyrics
Lyrics
the first noel 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,
noel, noel, noel, noel,
born is the king of israel
they looked up and saw a star
shining in the east beyond them afar
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
this star true light to the northwest
over bethlehem it took it's rest
and there it did stop and stay
right over the place where jesus lay
noel, noel, noel, noel,
born is the king of israel
noel, noel, noel, noel,
born is the king of israel
Video
The First Noel
Meaning & Inspiration
On October 24, 2006, All-4-One, known for their harmonious R&B sound, released their rendition of the timeless carol "The First Noel" as part of their album *Smooth and Soulful Christmas*. This particular offering from the group brings a classic hymn into a contemporary space, yet its enduring power lies not in musical innovation, but in the faithful articulation of a profound biblical narrative. The song itself is a direct recounting of the initial events surrounding the birth of Jesus, tracing the joyous announcement to the shepherds and the miraculous guidance of the star. It stands as a melodic cornerstone of Christian celebration, reminding us of the humble beginnings of the Savior and the divine orchestration of His arrival.
All-4-One’s interpretation of "The First Noel" elevates the carol’s central message through their signature vocal blend, offering a reverent and accessible retelling of the nativity story. The opening lines immediately transport us to the fields where "the first noel the angels did say, was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay." This scene, vividly described in Luke 2:8-14, highlights God’s deliberate choice to reveal His Son’s birth not to kings or religious elite, but to those on the margins – simple shepherds keeping watch over their flocks. It underscores a fundamental truth of the Gospel: God’s grace is for all, often breaking through in the most unexpected places and to the most humble hearts. The phrase "on a cold winter's night that was so deep" further emphasizes the isolation and perhaps the vulnerability of these men, making the angelic announcement of "good news of great joy for all the people" (Luke 2:10) all the more miraculous and comforting.
The repeated declaration of "Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel" serves as the song's triumphant refrain, anchoring the entire narrative. "Noel," derived from the Old French word for "birth," is a direct proclamation of the incarnation. This is not merely the birth of a child, but the arrival of the "King of Israel," a title rich with messianic prophecy. This points directly to the long-awaited deliverer promised throughout the Old Testament, one who would descend from the line of David and reign eternally, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6-7 and Luke 1:32-33. The simplicity of the repeated call ensures the gravity of this announcement resonates deeply, inviting all who hear to acknowledge the sovereignty of the newborn King.
The narrative then shifts, depicting the heavenly sign that confirmed this divine event: "they looked up and saw a star shining in the east beyond them afar." While traditional carols often weave together elements from different biblical accounts, the star's appearance is distinctly tied to the Magi's journey in Matthew 2:1-10. This celestial beacon served as a divine GPS, guiding seekers to the precise location of the King. The star's brilliant luminescence, described as giving "great light" that continued "both day and night," symbolizes Jesus Himself as the "Light of the World" (John 8:12), banishing spiritual darkness and illuminating the path to salvation. It is a powerful reminder that God uses both the spoken word of angels and the visible signs in creation to declare His glory and fulfill His purposes.
The final verses meticulously follow the star's journey, revealing its ultimate purpose: "this star true light to the northwest over Bethlehem it took it's rest, and there it did stop and stay, right over the place where Jesus lay." This meticulous guidance highlights God's intricate providence, ensuring that the Messiah would be found in Bethlehem, precisely fulfilling the ancient prophecy of Micah 5:2, which foretold that out of this small town "will come one who will be ruler over Israel." All-4-One's faithful rendition, devoid of unnecessary embellishment, allows the profound truth of this divine precision to shine. It encourages a reflection on God’s deliberate plan, His unwavering faithfulness to His promises, and the quiet awe of witnessing prophecy unfold in a stable. This song, in its directness and reverence, becomes more than just a musical performance; it is an act of worship, prompting all who engage with it to contemplate the incredible story of God becoming flesh, born as the humble King of Israel, and offering the world eternal hope.