Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:8-11)
It is one of the most famous carols; a herald proclaiming the coming of Christmas. But how old is this carol, and where does it come from? The First Noel’s origins are humble, not unlike the story it tells.
Originating in Cornwall, a county in South West England. The First Noel came about during the Proto Renaissance (the period that led into the Renaissance), during the 13th or 14th century. “Miracle Plays” were among the earliest forms of theater, and came about during this time. The plays portrayed famous Bible stories, and the story of Jesus’ birth would have been amongst the most popular. The First Noel is thought to have originated from one of these Miracle Plays. Perhaps the carol was written for a play, or simply inspired by a play. Either way, it took on a vibrant life of its own beyond the stage. Citizens of Cornwall would sing the carol in streets outside of churches, and the unique and beautiful song would latch onto all who heard it, its melody bringing joy, its lyrics bringing hope.
The First Noel survived and spread across the earth for centuries before being first transcribed in 1823. It was published within a collection of carols simply called “Some Ancient Christmas Carols.” This London publication sparked new life in the carol, and inspired Davies Gilbert and William Sandys to truly breathe new life into the ancient song. Sandys constructed a new arrangement for the carol, while Gilbert added new lyrics. They are credited for bringing the song into the modern era.
The First Noel was written as a way to express the excitement and wonder of Christmas. Hundreds of years ago, during a time without internet or phones, the people of Cornwall sang it in the streets as a way to spread hope and joy. The world may look very different today, but we still gather to sing the song for the same reasons. The song is a testament to the fact that no matter what the earth looks like, no matter how much time passes, the encouraging story of Jesus will always connect with the hearts that are desperate for Him.
The First Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields as they lay, keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.
Chorus:
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. (chorus)
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. (chorus)
This star drew nigh to the northwest,
O’er Bethlehem it took it rest,
And there it did both stop and stay
Right over the place where Jesus lay. (chorus)
Then entered in those Wise men three
Full reverently upon their knee
And offered there in His presence
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense. (chorus)
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 has bought. (chorus)