Sing we now of Christmas,
Noel sing we here.
Sing our grateful praises
To the maid so dear.
Sing we Noel!
The King is born, Noel!
Sing we now of Christmas.
Sing we here, Noel!
From the Eastern kingdoms
Come the wise men far.
Bearing ancient treasure,
Following yonder star.
From the distant mountains,
Hear the trumpet sound.
With angelic blessings
On the silent town.
Come let us surround Him
On this magic night.
Gather here around Him,
Wondrous Babe of light.
About This Song
This Christmas carol was actually written in the 15th century as a New Year’s Carol. The original carol text, written in French is titled “Noel Nouvelet.” The word “noel” means “news” or “newness,” and it’s still that “new birth” that we celebrate each Christmas.
Sometime in the 17th or 18th century, the French text was translated into English and has developed to be the traditional carol that we enjoy today.
This song presents the Christmas story just as it is recorded in the Bible. In the book of Luke, we learn about the promise of the newborn king. This is followed by the angel’s announcement to the shepherds telling them not to be afraid. The shepherds then traveled to Bethlehem to see for themselves this “new birth” (or “noel”).
