Away in a Manger
The tender Christmas carol that has comforted generations — discover its surprising American story, timeless lyrics, and beloved renditions.
The History of "Away in a Manger"
"Away in a Manger" is a wholly American Christmas carol that first appeared in print in the early 1880s. Despite decades of attribution to Martin Luther, the lyrics are anonymous and have no connection to the German reformer. The carol quickly became a Sunday-school favorite across the United States and spread globally.
The earliest known printing of the first two verses dates to 1882 in The Christian Cynosure, often titled "Luther's Cradle Song." By 1885 it was being sung in Sunday schools from Nashville to India. The third verse was added in 1892 and published in Charles H. Gabriel's Vineyard Songs. Today it remains one of the most beloved lullaby-style carols, evoking the humble birth of Jesus in a stable.
Full Lyrics
Verse 1
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.
Verse 2
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 till morning is nigh.
Verse 3
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 fit us for heaven to live with thee there.
Popularity & Statistics
Joint #2
Most popular Christmas carol in Britain (1996 Gallup Poll)
1883
Already being performed in U.S. Sunday schools and even overseas missions
>40
Different musical settings documented by 1945; nearly 200 exist today
By 1891 the carol was "sweeping the United States" and has remained a staple of Christmas hymnals ever since.
5 Most Popular Modern Renditions
Pentatonix (2017)
Over 32 million YouTube views. Signature tight harmonies make this a modern holiday favorite.
Carrie Underwood
Orchestral arrangement from her album My Gift. Warm and heartfelt delivery.
Nat King Cole - Away In A Manger
Timeless velvet voice. One of the most enduring recorded versions.
Lauren Daigle
Gentle piano-led take that highlights the lullaby quality of the carol.
Alan Jackson (2002)
Warm, traditional country arrangement that feels right at home by the fireside.
Listen: iTunes / Apple Music Preview
Sheet Music
Away in a Manger Sheet Music
Sheet music for Away in a Manger is sold through MusicNotes.com. We are not able to post printable copies of sheet music on this website. Please click the image to see the sheet music.
James R. Murray - Away In a Manger — Musicnotes Edition
- Origin: United States, 1880s
- Biblical Basis: Luke 2:4-7
- Key Themes: Humility, tenderness, children's faith
- Tune Length: Simple 3/4 lullaby meter