1 The first Nowell 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.

Refrain:
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
Born is the King of Israel.

2 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.

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 wherever it went.

4 This star drew near to the north-west,
O’er Bethlehem it took its rest,
And there it did both stop and stay
Right over the place where Jesus lay.

5 Then entered in those wise men three,
Full reverently upon their knee,
And offered there in his presence
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.

6 Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord,
That hath made Heaven and earth of naught,
And with his blood mankind hath bought.