Anne Murray - Away In a Manger Lyrics

Away In a Manger Video

Away In a Manger Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Away in a Manger: A Reflection on Anne Murray's Song

Introduction

Away in a Manger is a timeless Christmas carol that has been sung and cherished by people around the world for many years. One rendition of this beloved carol is by Canadian singer Anne Murray.

Main Key Messages

The song "Away in a Manger" is a beautiful and heartfelt depiction of the nativity story, focusing on the birth of Jesus and the humble circumstances in which he was born. The main key messages of the song can be understood by examining the lyrics chronologically:

1. "Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head."

The opening lines of the song immediately draw our attention to the humble setting of Jesus' birth. Instead of being born in a grand and comfortable environment, Jesus was laid in a simple manger, a feeding trough for animals. This emphasizes the humility and meekness of Jesus, as he willingly entered the world in a lowly and humble manner.

2. "The stars in the sky looked down where he lay, the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay."

These lines highlight the presence of the heavenly realm, as the stars in the sky observe and witness the birth of Jesus. It signifies the significance and importance of this event, as heaven itself is aware of the arrival of the Savior.

3. "The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, but little Lord Jesus no crying he makes."

In this part of the song, we see a tender and peaceful scene. The cattle near the manger are making lowing sounds, perhaps creating a lullaby-like atmosphere. Although the baby Jesus wakes up, he does not cry, symbolizing his serene nature and divine peace.

4. "I love thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky, and stay by my bedside till morning is nigh."

These lines express a personal and heartfelt connection to Jesus. The singer expresses their love for Jesus and invites him to stay with them until morning. It reflects a desire for a close relationship with Jesus and a recognition of his presence in their life.

5. "Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay close by me forever and love me, I pray."

Continuing the theme of a personal relationship with Jesus, the singer asks Jesus to stay near them forever and to love them. It reveals a deep longing for the love and companionship of Jesus, acknowledging the eternal impact of his presence in their life.

6. "Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, and fit us for heaven to live with thee there."

In the final lines of the song, the focus shifts to the broader audience. The singer asks Jesus to bless all the dear children and entrusts them to his tender care. The ultimate prayer is for Jesus to prepare them and all believers for heaven, where they can live with him for eternity.

Meaning and Inspiration

The song "Away in a Manger" carries a profound meaning. It invites us to reflect on the humility and gentleness of Jesus' birth, reminding us that even the King of Kings chose to enter the world in the most humble of circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus and the desire for his presence in our lives.

The inspiration behind the song is not entirely clear, as the origins of "Away in a Manger" have been debated. However, it is believed to have originated in the late 19th century and was published in the Evangelical Lutheran Sunday School's 1885 collection, "Little Children's Book for Schools and Families." The song has since become a cherished part of Christmas traditions worldwide.

Biblical Analysis

When analyzing the biblical accuracy of "Away in a Manger," it is important to note that the song is not directly based on any specific biblical passage. Instead, it serves as a poetic and artistic interpretation of the nativity story.

However, the overall message and themes of the song align with biblical teachings. The focus on Jesus' humble birth in a manger reflects the biblical account found in Luke 2:7: "And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn." The song captures the essence of Jesus' meekness and humility, which is consistent with biblical teachings on the character of Christ.

Additionally, the invitation for Jesus to stay with the singer and bless all the dear children aligns with biblical teachings on the personal relationship between believers and Jesus. In John 15:4-5, Jesus says, "Abide in me, and I in you... As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in me." This reflects the desire for a close and intimate relationship with Jesus, as expressed in the song.

Conclusion

"Away in a Manger" by Anne Murray beautifully captures the essence of the nativity story and the significance of Jesus' birth. Through its heartfelt lyrics, it invites us to reflect on the humble circumstances in which Jesus entered the world and the desire for a personal relationship with him. While the song is not directly based on specific biblical passages, its overall message aligns with biblical teachings on the character of Christ and the importance of a personal relationship with him. As we sing this beloved carol, may we be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and the profound impact of Jesus' birth on our lives.