No, Away In A Manger was NOT written by Martin Luther. The confusion came when James R. Murray published the song in a popular children's songbook as Luther's Cradle Hymn (Composed by Martin Luther for his children and still sung by German mothers to their little ones.) Since the general public took the title at its word and passed it on, the myth continues today. Ironically, the song is virtually unknown in Germany and bears no resemblance to Luther's musical style. In truth, the words came from a poem found inside a Lutheran Sunday school book published in 1885. Where? Not Germany, but Philadelphia, PA USA! James R. Murray may have written the song himself. For certain, Martin Luther did not write this song. Sorry about that! We appreciate the detective work of researchers of the US Library of Congress in uncovering this information.

Hear the music.

See the words:

AWAY IN A MANGER

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 in the hay.


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 cradle 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.

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