Early versions of this carol can be found in manuscripts dating from the 1500s. The earliest known printed edition of God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen is in a broadsheet dated to c. 1760.  

That first printed version of the song – where it is referred to as “Tidings of Comfort and Joy” was likely in use long before that. The melody and lyrics were first published together in 1833 in a collection titled, Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern, compiled by William Sandys. This collection also included The First Noel and I Saw Three Ships. Charles Dickens referenced the song in his classic, A Christmas Carol. 

Until the Reformation, church music was typically sung in Latin by professional choristers and was rather restrained. Consequentially, most church goers sang religious songs that were more folk-like and, often, dance-related. So, it is not surprising that this carol and many others are energetic, more metricali, and uplifting. Nightwatchmen are said to have sung God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen as they walked the streets of London.

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