Away In a Manger
Vienna Boys Choir & London Symphony Orchestra Lyrics

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Away in a-a manger
No-o crib for a bed
The-e little Lord Jesus
Lai-aid down his sweet head
The stars in the-e bright sky
Loo-ooked down where he lay
The-e little Lord Jesus
A-asleep on the hay

The cattle are-are lowing
The-e baby awakes
Bu-ut little Lord Jesus
No-o crying he makes
I love thee, Lor-ord Jesus!
Loo-ook down from the sky
A-and stay by my side
Unti-il morning is nigh

Be near me Lo-ord Jesus
I-I ask thee to stay
Clo-ose by me forever
A-and love me I pray
Bless all the dear-ear children
I-in thy te-ender care-are

And fit us for heaven
To-oo live wi-ith thee-ee there

Overall Meaning

The song "Away in A Manger" describes the humble and peaceful scene of the birth of Jesus Christ. The first verse describes the setting where the newborn baby Jesus was placed in a manger instead of a regular crib. It emphasizes the significance of the arrival of the Son of God by pointing out that he was born in very humble circumstances. The second verse depicts a serene picture of the resting baby, with the stars above watching over him. The third verse is a prayer directed towards the Baby Jesus, asking him to stay by the singer's side and love them, as well as to bless and protect all other children.

The song also emphasizes the innocence of Jesus, with the line "No crying he makes" indicating that Jesus was a peaceful and content baby. The lyrics express the singer's deep love for the Baby Jesus, requesting the Lord to stay and be close by forever, and to take care of all the children in his tender loving care. The melody of the song is gentle, matching the mood of the lyrics, which makes it ideal for Christmas caroling.

Overall, "Away in A Manger" is a beautiful hymn that conveys the peaceful and humble nature of the birth of Jesus Christ. It reminds Christians of the significance of Jesus' birth and encourages them to love and protect children, which is a crucial message for the Christmas season.

Line by Line Meaning

Away in a-a manger
In a stable, a cribless bed

No-o crib for a bed
There was no bed for him, but only a manger

The-e little Lord Jesus
The infant Jesus

Lai-aid down his sweet head
He sweetly laid his head to rest

The stars in the-e bright sky
Beneath the bright stars

Loo-ooked down where he lay
They looked down at where he lay

The-e little Lord Jesus
The infant Jesus

A-asleep on the hay
Was fast asleep on a bed of hay

The cattle are-are lowing
The cows are lowing

The-e baby awakes
The baby awakens

Bu-ut little Lord Jesus
But the infant Jesus