Читать книгу Best Loved Christmas Carols, Readings and Poetry - Martin Manser - Страница 17

The authorship of this hugely popular Christmas carol is often credited, mistakenly, to Martin Luther, probably because it was first published in a Lutheran hymnal early in the nineteenth century. In fact, the author is unknown, although the third verse is known to have been the work of John Thomas McFarland (1851–1913). The carol is thought to have been first performed by American Lutherans in 1883 during celebrations of the 400th anniversary of Luther’s birth. It is sung in the UK to a tune by William J. Kirkpatrick (1838–1921), but in the USA to a tune by James R. Murray (c.1841–1905).

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,

The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head;

The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay

The little Lord Jesus, asleep on 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 till morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus: I ask thee to stay

Close by me for ever, 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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