Chances are, the melody of The First Noel is as much a part of the Christmas season as twinkling lights and festive decorations. We’ve likely all sung this classic Christmas hymn, but have you ever paused to consider, What Does Noel Mean?
The first Noel the angel did say
was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
in the field where they lay keeping their sheep
on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel.
Christmas hymns hold a special place, reminding us of the profound significance of the season. Among these treasured carols, The First Noel stands out, narrating the biblical story from Luke 2. It recounts how the shepherds of Bethlehem, the initial recipients of the angelic announcement of the Savior’s birth, became the first messengers of this glorious news to the world.
While singing The First Noel recently, a simple yet profound question arose: “What exactly is the meaning of Noel?” Exploring the origin and history of words can unlock deeper understanding, and “Noel” proved to be a fascinating linguistic journey.
The Linguistic Roots of Noel
Initially, it’s commonly known that Noel is simply the French word for Christmas. However, to truly grasp what does Noel mean in the context of the carol, we need to delve deeper into its etymology.
The word “Noel” originates from the Latin word “natalis,” which directly translates to “birth.” This Latin root connects “Noel” intrinsically to the central event of Christmas – the birth of Jesus Christ.
Interestingly, the meaning of “Noel” evolved over time. While retaining its connection to “birth,” in Old French, “Noel” also carried the connotation of “news,” specifically good news. This aligns perfectly with the angelic message delivered to the shepherds, heralding the birth of the Messiah as joyous tidings.
Furthermore, in English, particularly within the context of Christmas carols, “Noel” has come to represent “shouts of joy” or a joyful exclamation. This evolution encapsulates the emotional response to the “good news” of Christ’s birth.
Noel: A Declaration of Good News
Piecing together these linguistic threads reveals that what Noel means is a multifaceted declaration. It’s not merely a word for Christmas; it’s a powerful expression proclaiming, “A Child is Born!” and embodying the joyous reaction to this momentous event.
Therefore, when the carol repeats “Noel, Noel,” it’s more than just a refrain. It’s a resounding announcement, echoing the shepherds’ initial joy and the enduring significance of Christ’s birth. It’s a proclamation that resonates through centuries, carrying a profound message:
Noel… Now, All is Well.
For a world burdened by sin… Now, All is Well.
For souls yearning for divine love… Now, All is Well.
For hearts weighed down by guilt and shame… Now, All is Well.
This Christmas season, as you sing The First Noel, allow this familiar carol to remind you of the true essence of Christmas. Because of Jesus Christ, born on that first Christmas, we can truly declare, “Now, All is Well.”
