Away in a manger
No crib for a bed
The little Lord Jesus
Lay down His sweet head
The stars in the sky
Look down where He lay
The little Lord Jesus
Asleep on the hay
The cattle are lowing
The poor baby wakes
But little Lord Jesus
No crying He makes
I love Thee, Lord Jesus
Look down from the sky
And stay by my side
‘Til morning is nigh
Be near me, Lord Jesus
I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever
And love me I pray
Bless all the dear children
In Thy tender care
And take us to heaven
To live with Thee there
Away in a Manger: Unwrapping the Heartwarming Christmas Classic
As the holiday season approaches, one can’t help but be filled with the warm and nostalgic spirit that Christmas music brings. Among the many beloved carols that grace our ears during this festive time, “Away in a Manger” stands as a timeless classic, cherished by people of all ages. In this blog post, we will delve into the history of this heartwarming song, exploring its origins, two common musical settings, early publications, and notable recordings that have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Origins of the Text:
The lyrics of “Away in a Manger” are attributed to various sources, making it a somewhat mysterious and debated aspect of the song’s history. One widely recognized origin points to Martin Luther, the famous 16th-century Protestant reformer. It is believed that the first two verses of the song were inspired by Luther’s German lullaby, “Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her” (From Heaven Above to Earth I Come). These verses are thought to have been translated into English in the late 19th century and later adapted to fit the familiar tune.
The third verse, “Be near me, Lord Jesus,” and the overall structure of the song are generally attributed to an American minister named John Thomas McFarland. McFarland penned these verses in the late 19th century, giving “Away in a Manger” its characteristic blend of traditional and contemporary elements.
Two Common Musical Settings:
“Away in a Manger” is known for having two common musical settings.
The first setting, often referred to as “Mueller,” is named after James R. Murray, who set the lyrics to this melody in the late 19th century. The Mueller setting is the one most familiar to many, characterized by its gentle and soothing melody.
The second musical setting, known as “Cradle Song,” was composed by William J. Kirkpatrick. This setting offers a different musical interpretation of the lyrics and is equally cherished by those who appreciate its serene and peaceful tone.
Early Publications:
The song made its first appearance in the late 19th century in various hymnals and collections. It was initially published in the “Little Children’s Book for Schools and Families” in Philadelphia in 1885 under the title “Luther’s Cradle Hymn.” Subsequently, it appeared in other hymnbooks, gaining popularity across the United States and beyond.
Notable Recordings:
Over the years, “Away in a Manger” has been recorded by countless artists, both in traditional and contemporary styles. Some of the most notable recordings include:
- Nat King Cole’s rendition, featured on his iconic “The Christmas Song” album, continues to be a holiday favorite, known for its timeless charm.
- Bing Crosby, the legendary crooner, recorded a beautiful version that captures the essence of the song’s simplicity and tenderness.
- Josh Groban’s rendition brings a modern touch to this classic, showcasing his exceptional vocal talent.
- The Pentatonix, an a cappella group, has also released a captivating version that highlights their vocal harmonies and unique arrangement.
“Away in a Manger” is a Christmas classic that has touched the hearts of millions around the world. With its rich history, two common musical settings, early publications, and numerous notable recordings, it continues to be a cherished part of the holiday season. Whether sung by children in a nativity play or heard on the radio, this timeless carol serves as a reminder of the joy and wonder that Christmas brings to people of all ages.
SANTA NYC 