This familiar English carol dates back to the 13th century. However, the well known combination of words and tune first appeared in Christmas Carols, Ancient and Modern, by William Sandys (London: Richard Beckley, 1833). But perhaps you have sung the song wondering what the word "Noel" actually means. The answer is that there is some uncertainty. The word probably comes from the French word Noël meaning "Christmas" which is derived from the Old French word noël, a variant of nael. The Latin origin is the word natalis ("birth"). But the word may also be from the Gaulish words "noio" or "neu" meaning "new" and "helle" meaning "light" referring to the winter solstice when sunlight begins overtaking darkness.
Certainly all of the various concepts unite in the single word, "Noel". Jesus Christ is the Light of the World. He has come to dispel spiritual darkness. Therefore, it is proper to celebrate His birth, though the exact time and date of that glorious event remains wrapped in mystery. Therefore let us sing of that first Christmas for Christ has also come to give new life, eternal life as a free gift of God. It is yours for the asking, it is yours for the receiving. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved." (Acts 16:31).
The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay tending their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
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Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
They lookèd 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.
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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.
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This star drew nigh to the northwest,
Over Bethlehem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay,
Right over the place where Jesus lay.
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Then did they know assuredly
Within that house the King did lie;
One entered it them for to see,
And found the Babe in poverty.
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Then entered in those Wise Men three,
Full reverently upon the knee,
And offered there, in His presence,
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.
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Between an ox stall and an ass,
This Child truly there He was;
For want of clothing they did Him lay
All in a manger, among the hay.
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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.
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If we in our time shall do well,
We shall be free from death and hell;
For God hath prepared for us all
A resting place in general.
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