Away In A Manger

The Story Behind Away In A Manger

“Away in a Manger” is one of the most beloved Christmas carols in the English-speaking world. First published in the late 1800s, it quickly became a favorite among children and families. In fact, a 1996 Gallup Poll in Britain ranked it as one of the nation’s top two most-loved carols.

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Who Wrote "Away in a Manger?"

For many years, hymnals credited the words of this gentle lullaby to Martin Luther, the German reformer. Some even titled it “Luther’s Cradle Song.” But over time, researchers discovered that this attribution wasn’t accurate.

Here’s why Luther is no longer believed to be the author:

• No version of the lyrics appears in Luther’s writings.

• No German text older than 1934 has ever been found — long after the first English publication.

• The German versions that do exist read awkwardly, as if they were translated from English rather than into it.

Today, most scholars agree that the hymn was written anonymously in America in the late nineteenth century.

As “Away in a Manger” became a popular hymn, different composers wrote their own melodies for it. Over time, two tunes became the most well-known:

• James Ramsey Murray (1887)

• William J. Kirkpatrick (1895)

These two versions are the ones most people still sing today, helping make the carol a beloved favorite in churches, children’s programs, and family celebrations.

Biblical Inspirations for "Away in a Manger"

and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Luke 2:7

This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Luke 2:12

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

Luke 2:16

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Collection of Popular Christmas Hymns and Carols:

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
The First Noel
Joy To The World
O Holy Night
Hark The Herald Angels Sing
Silent Night
O Come All Ye Faithful
Go Tell It On The Mountain
What Child Is This
O Little Town of Bethlehem
We Three Kings of Orient Are
Ave Maria
Away in a Manger