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December 10

"The First Nowell" is another traditional English carol. This carol adapted quite well to the banjo, and was fun to play. There are a total of nine verses, but I've included only the six listed in the Presbyterian Hymnal.

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The First Nowell

Words: Traditional English carol, 17th century
Music: THE FIRST NOWELL, English Carol

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.

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Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, 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.

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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 North West; O'er 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 entered in those wise men three, Fell reverently upon their knee,
And offered there in His presence, Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.

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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 our life hath bought.

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