AWAY IN A MANGER

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.


The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.
I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky
And stay by my cradle 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.

Information

sequencer unknown
info from Montrose Music

The first two verses of "Away in a Manger" were originally
published in a Lutheran Sunday school book in 1885. Two years
later, James R. Murray published it as "Luther's Cradle Hymn,"
thus creating the misconception that Luther had written it. Although
some attribute the words to Luther, they are usually considered
American anonymous. Some credit the music to Murray; others think
he merely harmonized an old German folk song. The words are frequently
sung to the tune of the Scottish song "Flow Gently Sweet Afton."