The Gifts They Gave
Jesus our king, kind and good
Was humbly born in a stable of wood
And the lowly beasts around Him stood
Jesus our king, kind and good
I said the donkey, shaggy and brown
I carried his mother up and down
I carried his mother to Bethlehem town
I said the donkey, shaggy and brown
I said the ox, this was my hay
I gave him my manger, it was here that he lay
I gave him my manger, it was here that he lay
I said the ox, this was my hay
I said the sheep with pearly horn
I gave him my wool for a blanket warm
He wore my coat on Christmas morn
I said the sheep with pearly horn
I said the dove, from the rafters high
I sang him to sleep that he would not cry
We sang him to sleep, my love and I
I said the dove, from the rafters high
And so every heart, by some good spell
In the stable dark, was glad to tell
Of the gift that he gave to Emmanuel
Of the gift that he gave to Emmanuel
Listen to the song
Hør sangen
About the carol The Gifts They Gave
“The Gifts They Gave” is a Christmas song recorded by Johnny Cash, the legendary country singer known for his storytelling and deep, expressive voice. The song reflects Cash’s interest in songs that explore faith, history and meaningful human experiences.
The song focuses on the gifts and sacrifices connected with the Christmas story. It reflects on the meaning behind giving and the importance of generosity, connecting the tradition of Christmas gifts with deeper spiritual values. Rather than focusing only on material presents, it considers the significance of what people offer to others.
Johnny Cash’s distinctive voice gives the song a reflective and sincere quality. Its connection to Christmas comes from its focus on generosity, faith and the deeper meaning of giving. “The Gifts They Gave” represents the thoughtful side of Christmas music, encouraging listeners to consider the values behind the holiday traditions.
