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 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 Pause and stay
Right o'er 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 their knee
And offered there in His presence
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
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.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!
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Meaning & Inspiration
The First Noel retells the nativity through the announcement to shepherds, the guiding star, and the visit of the wise men. Each verse advances the familiar account before returning to the refrain that names the newborn child as the King of Israel. The movement from quiet fields to Bethlehem gives the carol a clear narrative shape, while the repeated “Noel” turns the story into a proclamation of joy. Its details draw especially from the birth narratives in Luke and Matthew, though the traditional text combines them in a single sequence.
The final verse widens the focus from those first witnesses to all who sing. Praise is directed to the Lord as Creator and Redeemer, connecting Christ’s birth with the salvation associated with his death. That conclusion gives the carol more than a seasonal setting: the manger is presented within the larger Christian confession about who Christ is and what he accomplishes. Reverence, wonder, and celebration remain joined throughout the song.
Related Scripture
- Luke 2:8-14 Angels announce Christ’s birth to shepherds keeping watch near Bethlehem.
- Matthew 2:1-11 The wise men follow the star and present gifts to Jesus.
- Colossians 1:15-20 The passage presents Christ as Creator and the one who brings redemption.