This edition was prepared by Andrew Sims — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Dost thou in a manger lie
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
Unison · Andrew Sims
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Dost thou in a manger lie by Anonymous — Lyrics
Dost thou in a manger lie,
who hast all created,
stretching infant hands on high,
Savior, long awaited?
If a monarch, where thy state?
Where thy court on thee to wait?
Scepter, crown, and sphere?
Here no regal pomp we see,
nought but need and penury:
why thus cradled here?
“For the world a love supreme
brought me to this stable;
all creation to redeem
I alone am able.
By this lowly birth of mine,
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About Dost thou in a manger lie
This anonymous carol for unison voices sets an English text exploring the paradox of the Nativity. The music embraces the gentle, questioning nature of the opening lines, with a melody that moves with simple sincerity. The text reflects on the humble circumstances of Christ's birth, contrasting the infant Savior with his divine power and cosmic dominion. It then turns to the divine perspective, explaining the Incarnation as an act of supreme love for humanity, a sacrifice to redeem sinners and bestow grace. The piece is suited for Christmas services, offering a reflective and devotional musical setting of a profound theological text.
