Discover the Timeless Beauty of 'Away in a Manger' - A Classic Christmas Carol
Away in a Manger is a popular Christmas carol that tells the story of the birth of Jesus. It is often sung at nativity plays and church services.
Are you tired of hearing the same old Christmas carols every year? Well, let me introduce you to a classic that's been around for over a century - Away in a Manger. This beloved hymn has been sung by generations of children and adults alike, but do you really know the story behind it? Prepare to be entertained and educated as we delve into the origins of Away in a Manger.
Firstly, let's talk about the lyrics. Away in a Manger is a simple yet beautiful song that tells the story of the Nativity scene. However, did you know that there are actually two different versions of the lyrics? The first version is the traditional one that most people are familiar with, but the second version features slightly altered lyrics and a different tune. Who knew that such a small change could make such a big difference?
Now, let's move on to the history of the song. Despite being a staple of Christmas carol concerts everywhere, Away in a Manger didn't actually originate as a Christmas song. In fact, it was originally published in a Lutheran Sunday school book in the late 1800s as a hymn for children. It wasn't until many years later that it became associated with Christmas, and even then it was mainly in the United States.
Speaking of the United States, did you know that the most popular tune for Away in a Manger in America is actually different from the one used in the UK? That's right - the tune that most Americans know and love was actually composed by an American musician named James R. Murray in the late 1800s. Meanwhile, the UK uses a different tune that was first published in a hymnal in 1885.
But enough about the history - what about the song itself? One thing that makes Away in a Manger so special is its gentle and soothing melody. It's the perfect song to sing to children at bedtime, or to hum to yourself when you're feeling stressed. And let's not forget about the lyrics - they're simple yet powerful, and they really capture the essence of the Nativity story.
Now, let's move on to some fun facts about Away in a Manger. Did you know that it's been covered by countless artists over the years? From Elvis Presley to Mariah Carey, everyone seems to have their own version of this classic hymn. And let's not forget about the various parodies that have been created over the years - Away in a Trailer and Away in a Manager are just a couple of examples!
But perhaps the most interesting fact about Away in a Manger is that it's often cited as being the favorite Christmas carol of President Barack Obama. In fact, he even sang a few lines from the song during a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the White House in 2010. If it's good enough for the President, it's good enough for us!
In conclusion, Away in a Manger may be a simple and unassuming Christmas carol, but it has a rich history and a timeless charm that has captivated generations. So next time you hear it playing on the radio or in a shopping mall, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of this beloved hymn.
The Christmas Classic: Away In A Manger
Christmas is that one time of the year where we all come together and celebrate the holiday season. And what better way to celebrate than with some classic Christmas tunes! One such song that has been a favorite amongst people of all ages for many years is Away in a Manger. This timeless carol has been sung by generations of families around the world, but have you ever stopped to think about the song's lyrics? Let's take a closer look at Away in a Manger and see what makes it so special.
The First Stanza
The first stanza of Away in a Manger sets the tone for the entire song. It speaks of the birth of Jesus Christ and how he was born in a manger, surrounded by animals. The line the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head is particularly poignant, as it shows the innocence and vulnerability of the baby Jesus. However, the line the stars in the sky looked down where he lay leaves me wondering if the stars were also in awe of this little baby.
The Second Stanza
The second stanza continues to describe the scene of the nativity. It tells of how Jesus' mother Mary was present at his birth, and how she watched over him while he slept. The line the cattle are lowing, the poor baby wakes is quite amusing, as it suggests that the noise made by the animals is what woke the baby up. Perhaps they were simply trying to join in on the festivities!
The Third Stanza
The third stanza takes a more spiritual turn, speaking of how Jesus came to save us from our sins. The line I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky shows how much we all adore and worship Jesus. However, the line and stay by my cradle till morning is nigh seems a bit odd to me. Was someone asking Jesus to stay with them all night? Talk about an awkward request!
The Fourth Stanza
The fourth stanza of Away in a Manger is a little different from the others. It is often referred to as the Gloria stanza, as it speaks of the angels singing and praising God. The line glory to God in the highest is a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and why we celebrate it each year.
The Fifth Stanza
The fifth and final stanza of Away in a Manger brings the song to a close. It speaks of how we should all strive to be like the baby Jesus, with hearts full of love and kindness. The line fit us for heaven to live with thee there reminds us that Christmas is not just a time for presents and parties, but also a time to reflect on our own lives and how we can make a difference in the world.
Final Thoughts
There you have it - a closer look at the lyrics of Away in a Manger. While some of the lines may seem a bit humorous or odd, the song as a whole is a beautiful tribute to the birth of Jesus Christ. So, as you gather around the Christmas tree with your loved ones this year, don't forget to sing a few carols and remember the true meaning of the holiday season. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
It's a Classic, But Have You Really Listened to Those Lyrics?
Sure, Away in a Manger is a classic Christmas hymn, but have you ever really paid attention to the lyrics? I mean, there's a line that says no crying he makes. Talk about setting the bar high! I cry just thinking about the pressure that baby Jesus must have felt.It's a Kitten Magnet
Attention all cat lovers: if you want to attract every cute kitten in a five-mile radius, just start humming Away in a Manger. There's something about those gentle melodies that sets felines' hearts aflutter. Consider yourself warned.The Perfect Song to Teach Your Kids About Farm Animals
Move over, The Wheels on the Bus, because Away in a Manger is here to teach your kids about farm animals. Sure, there may only be a cow and a donkey mentioned, but that's two more than Jingle Bells has. Plus, your little ones will love singing about the animals that were present at baby Jesus's birth.It's Not Just for Christmas Anymore
Who says you can only sing Away in a Manger during the holiday season? This peaceful hymn is the perfect lullaby for any time of year. Just maybe don't bust it out at inappropriate moments, like during a job interview or a first date.The Dubstep Remix You Never Knew You Wanted
Okay, so maybe a dubstep remix of Away in a Manger doesn't actually exist (yet), but we can dream, can't we? Imagine a sick bass drop during the chorus - it would be a game-changer.Every Church Choir's Worst Nightmare
Raise your hand if you've ever been forced to sing Away in a Manger as part of your church's Christmas pageant. (And if you're not raising your hand, we're calling shenanigans.) Sure, it's a beautiful song, but those three-part harmonies can be a real doozy.The Song That Proves Rhyming manger with anger is Totally Acceptable
Let's be honest, sometimes songwriters need to get creative with their rhymes. And that's exactly what we got with Away in a Manger. Sure, manger and anger may not be a perfect rhyme, but we're still going to sing it that way, dang it.The Inspiration Behind a Million Christmas Pageant Costumes
If there's one thing we all know about Away in a Manger, it's that it's responsible for a lot of baby Jesus costumes. Whether you're putting together a kindergarten play or just trying to recreate the Christmas story in your living room, this song is pretty much the go-to source for all your baby-in-a-manger needs.The Real Meaning of Christmas, According to Demi Lovato
Of all the Christmas songs out there, did you know that Away in a Manger is actually Demi Lovato's favorite? According to the pop star, it's the ultimate reminder of what the holiday season is really all about: love, peace, and that famous baby in a manger. (Bonus points if you can find a way to work Cool for the Summer into your Christmas celebration.)The Song That Proves Christmas is Basically One Big Baby Shower
Let's face it, most Christmas songs are just an excuse to talk about babies. And Away in a Manger is no exception. But hey, who can blame us? Baby Jesus is kind of a big deal. On the plus side, at least nobody's going to make you play baby shower games at Christmas dinner. (Unless you're really unlucky.)Away In Manger: A Humorous Point of View
Pros and Cons of Away In Manger
As a classic Christmas carol, Away In Manger has been sung by millions of people all over the world. But let's take a closer look at its pros and cons.
Pros
- Easy to sing - even for those who are not musically inclined.
- Religious significance - it tells the story of the birth of Jesus Christ.
- Traditional - it has been around for over a century and is a staple in many Christmas celebrations.
Cons
- Repetitive - the melody and lyrics can get monotonous after a while.
- Outdated language - some of the words used in the song are no longer commonly used today.
- Sad tone - the song can be quite melancholy, which may not be suitable for all occasions.
Despite its flaws, there's no denying that Away In Manger is a beloved Christmas carol. Whether you love it or hate it, there's no escaping its presence during the holiday season.
But let's have a little fun with it. Here are some humorous observations about the song:
- The line no crying he makes seems a little unrealistic for a newborn baby. Have these people ever been around infants?
- The line the cattle are lowing is just strange. Who brings their livestock into a barn to witness the birth of a baby?
- The third verse talks about the baby being near me, I pray. Who is the speaker praying to? The baby?
Overall, Away In Manger may not be perfect, but it's a classic that will continue to be sung for years to come. So embrace it, flaws and all, and let's sing it with all the gusto we can muster!
Thank You for Visiting My Blog About Away In A Manger!
Well, folks, it's time for me to wrap things up. I hope you enjoyed reading my thoughts on the classic Christmas hymn Away In A Manger. But before you go, I have a few final words to share with you.
First of all, I want to thank each and every one of you for taking the time to visit my blog and read what I have to say. I know there are countless other websites out there that you could be browsing, so the fact that you chose to spend some time here means a lot to me.
As you may have gathered from my previous posts, I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with Away In A Manger. On the one hand, it's a beautiful song that captures the spirit of Christmas perfectly. On the other hand, it's been played ad nauseam for decades, and I'm pretty sure I've heard every single version of it at this point.
But even though I may be a bit jaded when it comes to Away In A Manger, I still appreciate its place in our holiday traditions. It's comforting to know that there are certain songs, foods, and activities that we can count on year after year, no matter what else is going on in the world.
Of course, that doesn't mean we can't mix things up a little bit. If you're tired of hearing the same old renditions of Away In A Manger, why not seek out some more unconventional versions? There are plenty of artists out there who have put their own spin on the song, from country singers to heavy metal bands.
Or, if you're feeling really adventurous, why not try writing your own version of the song? Who knows, you might just come up with a new classic that will be sung for generations to come.
Whatever you decide to do, I hope you'll keep the spirit of Away In A Manger in your heart this holiday season. It's not just a song, after all - it's a reminder of the love and joy that we can all experience when we come together to celebrate.
And with that, I'll say goodbye for now. Thank you again for visiting my blog, and I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!
People Also Ask About Away In A Manger
What is the meaning behind Away In A Manger?
Well, it's quite simple, really. The song tells the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. The manger referred to in the title is where he was laid to rest after his birth in a stable.
Who wrote Away In A Manger?
Now, that's a bit of a mystery. There are actually two different versions of the song with different authors. The first version was written in the late 1800s by an unknown author, while the second version was written by American songwriter John Thomas McFarland.
Is Away In A Manger a popular Christmas song?
Yes, indeed! Away In A Manger is a beloved Christmas carol that has been sung for generations. It's often heard in churches and schools during the holiday season, and it's a staple on Christmas music playlists everywhere.
Can anyone sing Away In A Manger?
Absolutely! Away In A Manger is a fairly simple song to sing, and it's a great one for beginners. Whether you're a professional singer or someone who just enjoys singing in the shower, you can sing along to this classic Christmas carol.
What are some fun variations of Away In A Manger?
Well, there are plenty of creative adaptations out there, but here are a few of our favorites:
- Away In A Manger sung to the tune of The Yellow Rose of Texas
- Adding silly lyrics like Away in a spaceship, no crib for a bed
- Creating a parody version called Away In A Trailer
However you choose to sing it, Away In A Manger is a timeless Christmas classic that will always bring joy and cheer to the holiday season!