The Ox and the Ass at the Manger



by Friederich von Spee ( 1591 – 1635 )

Translated from the German

Flying through deserted skies

The raven-wind of winter

Finds the stable where He lies,

Jesus in the manger;

Croaks and bumbles over Him

Beak of ice to prod

Tender flesh and tiny limbs,

Incarnated God

Stop, stop you frost and hail

Wicked wind that moans,

Stop these sharp and shrieking gales,

Leave the child alone;

Fly across the savage seas

Buffet with your wings

All the oceans till they freeze,

Spare my Infant King

I have something to propose

Joseph dearest brother,

Mix the petals of the rose

With ox and donkey fodder;

Make a mash to feed them both

Lay it at their feet,

Quickly, quickly make their breath

Gentle, warm and sweet

Pious ox and donkey mild

Purify this room,

Cense the body of the child

With rosy warm perfume;

Go and blow your breathing:

Aha, aha, aha!

With your lungs unceasing:

Aha, aha, aha!

— trans. P. Chichikov

Subscribe to CE
(It's free)

Go to Catholic Exchange homepage

MENU