Carrie Underwood - Away In A Manger Lyrics

Carrie Underwood - Away In A Manger (Official Audio Video)

Away In A Manger Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"Away In A Manger," a cherished Christmas carol, takes on a reverent and peaceful quality in Carrie Underwood's rendition, released as an official audio video in September 2020. The presentation, typical of an audio video format, often pairs the serene music with calming visuals or static imagery that allows the listener to focus deeply on the lyrics and the message of the song. Underwood's vocal delivery is known for its clarity and warmth, lending a tender and intimate feel to this classic hymn. This version invites listeners into the quiet scene of the Nativity, fostering a moment of reflection on the profound simplicity of Christ's birth.

The lyrics of the first stanza paint a vivid picture of the humble stable setting. They describe the baby Jesus lying in a manger, using a feeding trough as His bed because there was no proper crib available. The image of the stars looking down emphasizes the cosmic significance of this event, while grounding it in the reality of the stable where the "little Lord Jesus" slept peacefully on the hay. This imagery directly connects to the biblical account of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, highlighting the initial humility and lack of worldly comfort surrounding the arrival of the Messiah.

The second stanza introduces a moment of potential disturbance as the cattle's lowing wakes the baby. Yet, it emphasizes a remarkable detail: the baby Jesus does not cry. This specific line, while not explicitly stated in scripture, has become a traditional part of the carol, often interpreted as highlighting the unique nature and divine peace inherent in Jesus even as an infant. The stanza then shifts to a personal prayer, expressing love for "Lord Jesus" and asking for His presence and guidance until morning, signifying a desire for His continual closeness.

The final stanza deepens the personal connection with a prayer for enduring presence and love, asking Jesus to "stay close by me forever." It then expands to a broader appeal for God's care, asking for blessings upon "all the dear children" and expressing the hope of being taken to Heaven to live eternally with Him. This transforms the scene of the Nativity into a personal plea for salvation and divine care, linking the birth of Christ to the ultimate promise of eternal life and God's tender compassion for humanity, reflecting the core message of the Gospel.

The hymn "Away In A Manger" is a beloved part of the Christmas tradition, its simple yet profound lyrics capturing the essence of the Nativity story found in the Bible. The setting described aligns with the account in Luke 2:7, which states that Mary "wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn." While the exact authorship of the hymn is historically debated, it effectively conveys the key elements of the biblical narrative – the humble stable, the baby Jesus, and the peaceful scene, resonating with scriptural truth regarding the circumstances of Christ's birth.

Carrie Underwood's performance honours the traditional character of the carol while imbuing it with her sincere faith and vocal purity. The song serves as a powerful reminder of the humility and grace embodied in the birth of Jesus. It encourages listeners to reflect on the significance of the manger, the divine peace of the infant Christ, and the enduring hope of His love and eternal presence in our lives. The simple narrative and heartfelt prayers within the lyrics offer a message of comfort, hope, and the profound love of God revealed in sending His Son.