Harry Belafonte - The Gifts They Gave Lyrics
Lyrics
Jesus, our brother, kind and good
Was humbly born in a stable of wood
And the friendly beasts around Him stood
Jesus, our brother, kind and good
I said, the donkey, shaggy and brown
I carried His mother up hill and down
I carried His mother to Bethlehem town
I said, the donkey, shaggy and brown
I said, the sheep with curly horn
I gave Him my wool for a blanket warm
He wore my coat on Christmas morn
I said, the sheep with curly horn
I said, the dove from the rafters high
I cooed Him to sleep that He should not cry
We cooed Him to sleep my love and I
I said, the dove from rafters high
Thus, every beast by some good spell
In the stable dark was glad to tell
Of the gift he gave Emmanuel
Of the gift he gave Emmanuel
Video
Harry Belafonte The Gifts They Gave + Lyrics
Meaning & Inspiration
Harry Belafonte's tender rendition of "The Gifts They Gave," released as part of the album *To Wish You A Merry Christmas*, offers a uniquely perspective on the Nativity story, inviting all who encounter it to reflect on the profound humility and universal welcome surrounding the birth of Jesus. Instead of focusing on the well-documented journeys of wise men or shepherds, the song turns our attention to the unsung heroes of the stable: the gentle animals whose simple yet significant contributions illuminated the sacred moment.
The narrative unfolds through the eyes of these humble creatures, each recounting their own offering to the newborn King, Emmanuel. We first meet the "donkey, shaggy and brown," who speaks of faithfully carrying Mary to Bethlehem, a journey made necessary by Caesar Augustus's decree for a census (Luke 2:1-4). This quiet act of service echoes the essential role of obedience and perseverance, highlighting how even seemingly mundane efforts can be part of God's magnificent plan. The donkey's burden was not just physical but pivotal, ensuring that Mary and Joseph arrived in the very town prophesied for the Messiah's birth (Micah 5:2).
Next, the "sheep with curly horn" proudly shares how its wool became "a blanket warm," clothing the Christ child on that first Christmas morn. This gift symbolizes provision and comfort, reminding us that even in the most modest circumstances, God provides for His Son, often through the simplest elements of His creation. The imagery of the sheep's wool also carries spiritual resonance, as Jesus Himself is often depicted as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-15), and believers as His flock. This animal's contribution speaks to the warmth, protection, and unconditional love that should surround God's presence among us.
Finally, the "dove from the rafters high" recounts its soothing presence, cooing the infant Jesus to sleep, preventing His tears. This delicate act of solace encapsulates the peace and tenderness that the Messiah brings to the world. The dove, a profound biblical symbol of purity, peace, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:16), here represents divine comfort and the gentle hush that descends upon the world with the arrival of the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). It's a reminder that God's peace isn't just a grand declaration but also a quiet, comforting presence in our lives, even in moments of vulnerability.
The song culminates in the beautiful declaration that "every beast by some good spell...was glad to tell / Of the gift he gave Emmanuel." This profound message goes beyond a charming children's tale; it’s a powerful theological statement about the nature of true giving and God's boundless appreciation for sincere offerings, regardless of their perceived grandeur. While the wise men brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh – gifts of immense worldly value and symbolic depth (Matthew 2:11) – the animals offered what they had, simply and freely: their strength, their warmth, their calming presence. This mirrors the biblical principle found in the story of the widow's mites (Mark 12:41-44), where Jesus values the small, sacrificial offering of the poor woman more than the grand donations of the wealthy, because she gave out of her genuine heart and all that she possessed.
"The Gifts They Gave" inspires us to recognize that our own contributions to God's kingdom are not measured by their material worth or worldly acclaim, but by the spirit in which they are given. Each of us, like the donkey, sheep, and dove, possesses unique abilities and resources, however humble they may seem. Whether it is a quiet act of service, a comforting presence, or a faithful journey, our genuine offerings are seen, valued, and woven into the fabric of God's redemptive story. Just as the animals contributed to the initial welcome of Emmanuel – "God with us" (Matthew 1:23) – we too are called to participate in His ongoing work in the world, offering our specific "gifts" with joy and gladness, knowing that every act of love and service, no matter how small, is precious in His sight. This song serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder that God invites all creation, and all humanity, to find their place in His divine narrative, contributing their unique essence to His glory.