Manger

Livestock trough near Empire Ranch Arizona 2007

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Devil's Farmhouse, Mellieha

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Donkey eating

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Geertgen tot Sint Jans, The Nativity at Night, c 1490

Manger is a term that traditionally refers to a trough or box used to feed animals. The concept of a manger is deeply rooted in agricultural practices, particularly those involving the care and feeding of domesticated animals such as horses, cattle, and sheep. Mangers are significant in various cultural and religious contexts, most notably in Christianity, where the manger in which Jesus Christ was laid after his birth plays a central role in the narrative of the Nativity.

History and Usage

The use of mangers dates back to ancient times when farmers needed a method to feed their animals efficiently. Mangers were typically constructed from wood or stone and were placed in areas where animals were kept, such as stables or barns. The design and size of a manger could vary significantly depending on the types of animals it was intended for and the materials available for its construction.

In agricultural settings, the manger serves a practical purpose by containing food, such as hay or grain, making it accessible to domesticated animals. This containment helps reduce waste and ensures that feed is distributed evenly among animals.

Cultural Significance

The most famous manger is undoubtedly the one associated with the birth of Jesus Christ, as described in the Gospel of Luke. According to Christian tradition, Mary and Joseph found no room at the inn in Bethlehem and were forced to seek shelter in a stable. There, Jesus was born and laid in a manger, which is often depicted in Nativity scenes around the world during the Christmas season. This manger has become a symbol of humility and simplicity, reflecting the circumstances of Jesus's birth.

In Art and Literature

Mangers are a common motif in Christian art, particularly in depictions of the Nativity. These scenes often include figures of Mary, Joseph, the infant Jesus, shepherds, and sometimes the Magi, gathered around the manger in adoration. In literature, the manger is mentioned in various accounts of the Nativity and has been a subject of poetry, hymns, and stories that emphasize its symbolic significance in Christianity.

Modern Usage

Today, mangers are still used in farming and animal husbandry, though modern materials and designs have evolved. Plastic and metal have supplemented or replaced wood and stone in some contexts, offering durability and ease of cleaning. In addition to their practical use, mangers also appear in decorative forms, especially during the Christmas season as part of Nativity sets and displays.

See Also

• Nativity of Jesus
• Agriculture
• Animal husbandry
• Christianity