Psalter Hymnal (Gray) ‎#349

349. Away in a Manger

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.

2 The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
but little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes.
I love you, Lord Jesus: look down from on high
and stay by my side until morning is nigh.

3 Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask you to stay
close by me forever and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in your tender care;
prepare us for heaven to live with you there.

Text Information

• First Line: Away in a manger, no crib for a bed
• Title: Away in a Manger
• Meter: 11 11 11 11
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1987
• Topic: Family; Songs for Children: Hymns; Christmas; Lamb Of God
• Source: American, 1885

Tune Information

• Name: CRADLE SONG
• Composer: William J. Kirkpatrick (1895)
• Meter: 11 11 11 11
• Key: F Major

Text Information:

Scripture References:
st. 1 = Luke 2:4-7

For text commentary see PHH 348.

Liturgical Use:
See PHH 348.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook

Tune Information:

William J. Kirkpatrick (PHH 188) composed CRADLE SONG, which was first published in Around the World with Christmas (1895). Like AWAY IN A MANGER, CRADLE SONG is a simple tune in ABAB form, but with a slightly more adventurous harmony. Try singing this childlike song in harmony; without accompaniment or with only light organ registration; or with flutes and guitar.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook