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Everyday words in Bible stories

Manger — Meaning in the Bible

A feeding trough for animals. Mary laid the newborn Jesus in one because there was no room for them in the inn.

Scripture in WEBWorld English Bible — Protestant Edition

What it means

Mary wrapped her son in strips of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough. The angel told the shepherds this would be their sign. Luke 2:7 Luke 2:12

The shepherds hurried and found Mary, Joseph and the baby lying in the feeding trough. Luke 2:16

Key passages

Luke 2:6–7 — Jesus laid in a manger
Luke 2:12 — The sign for the shepherds
Luke 2:16 — The shepherds find him

How translations differ

The World English Bible says "feeding trough"; many other translations say "manger". Luke 2:7

For children

A manger is a box that animals eat from. Baby Jesus was laid in a manger when he was born. Luke 2:7

The Birth of Jesus