The joy of Christmas is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with the timeless classic, "Away in a Manger"? This beloved carol has been a staple of holiday tradition for generations, and its sweet melody and poignant lyrics never fail to evoke the true spirit of the season. In this article, we'll delve into the history of "Away in a Manger," explore its lyrics, and provide a printable version for you to enjoy with your loved ones.
The Origins of "Away in a Manger"
The exact authorship of "Away in a Manger" is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in Germany in the 16th century. The melody, known as "Mueller," was composed by James R. Murray in 1887, and the lyrics were first published in a German hymnal in 1891. The carol gained popularity in the United States in the early 20th century and has since become a Christmas standard around the world.
The Lyrics of "Away in a Manger"
The lyrics of "Away in a Manger" are a beautiful expression of the wonder and awe of the Nativity scene. The song tells the story of Jesus' birth in a humble manger, surrounded by the gentle creatures of the stable. The lyrics are a poignant reminder of the simplicity and humility of the Christmas story.
Verse 1: Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. The stars in the 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 side until 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 take us to heaven to live with thee there.
Away in a Manger Lyrics Printable
Here is a printable version of the "Away in a Manger" lyrics, perfect for sharing with your loved ones during the holiday season:
[Insert printable lyrics here]
Benefits of Singing Christmas Carols
Singing Christmas carols like "Away in a Manger" has numerous benefits for individuals and families. Some of the benefits include:
- Creating a sense of community and togetherness
- Evoking feelings of joy and nostalgia
- Providing a fun and engaging way to learn about the Christmas story
- Encouraging creativity and self-expression
- Reducing stress and promoting relaxation
How to Make the Most of Your Christmas Carol Singing Experience
To get the most out of your Christmas carol singing experience, consider the following tips:
- Gather with friends and family to create a sense of community
- Use printables like the one provided above to ensure everyone has the lyrics
- Choose a variety of carols to keep things interesting and engaging
- Encourage everyone to participate, regardless of their singing ability
- Make it a annual tradition to create lasting memories
Conclusion
As the holiday season approaches, we are reminded of the importance of tradition and community. Singing Christmas carols like "Away in a Manger" is a wonderful way to bring people together and evoke the true spirit of the season. With its poignant lyrics and soothing melody, "Away in a Manger" is a carol that is sure to become a favorite. We hope this article has provided you with a deeper appreciation for this beloved carol and inspired you to make it a part of your holiday traditions.
Who wrote the lyrics to "Away in a Manger"?
+The exact authorship of "Away in a Manger" is unknown.
What is the name of the melody for "Away in a Manger"?
+The melody for "Away in a Manger" is known as "Mueller."
Why is singing Christmas carols beneficial?
+Singing Christmas carols has numerous benefits, including creating a sense of community, evoking feelings of joy and nostalgia, and reducing stress.
We hope you've enjoyed this article on "Away in a Manger" and the benefits of singing Christmas carols. Share your favorite holiday traditions and carols with us in the comments below!