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. [Refrain]

3 And by the light of that same star
three magi came from country far;
to seek for a king was their intent,
and to follow the star wherever it went. [Refrain]