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What Child Is This? (First Noël Prelude)
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Aug 5, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Francesca Battistelli's rendition of "What Child Is This?" with a "First Noel" prelude is a classic Christmas carol medley. The song begins with the angelic announcement to shepherds, celebrating the birth of Jesus, the King of Israel. It then transitions into the reflective question of the Christ child resting on Mary's lap, affirming Him as Christ the King and the Son of Mary. The lyrics call for worship, bringing gifts of incense, gold, and myrrh, and rejoicing in the salvation that Christ brings. Battistelli's version honors the traditional melodies and theological depth of these beloved hymns, inviting listeners to ponder the miracle of the Incarnation.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
The first Noël
The angels 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
Noël, Noël, Noël, Noël
Born is the King of Israel
Noël, Noël, Noël, Noël
Born is the King of Israel
What Child is this who laid to rest
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.