"Away in a Manger"

The first publication of "Away in a Manger" was in 1885 in a Lutheran Sunday school book by James R. Murray. The fact that the song was included in the book and was subtitled "Luther's Cradle Hymn (Composed by Martin Luther for his children and still sung by German mothers to their little ones)" created the misconception that the lyrics were actually written by Martin Luther himself. However, no proof that Martin Luther had any hand in the creation of "Away in a Manger" exists. The author of the first two verses is unknown, but the third verse was composed by John T. Mc­Far­land. The music was composed by William J. Kirkpatrick in 1895.

The carol has been covered by artists from just about every style of music. From Martina McBride, Dwight Yoakam and Sufjan Stevens to Julie Andrews, Linda Ronstadt and Nat King Cole -- secular artists have done the song justice for years. As for Christian artists, there are several great versions out there for your listening enjoyment. The Top Christian versions of the carol are found in the following list ...

• Top 10 Versions of "Away in a Manger" by Christian Artists and Bands

  Away in a Manger

  Away in a manger
  No crib for His 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

  The cattle are lowing
  The poor Baby wakes
  But little Lord Jesus
  No crying He makes
  I love Thee, Lord Jesus
  Look down from the sky
  And stay by my side,
  '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

  Source: Public domain

  • Top 10 Versions of "Away in a Manger" by Christian Artists and Bands