The Swaddling Cloths as a Sign

The angel gives the shepherds a sign of recognition: “a child wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12). To ordinary ears a touching detail. To these shepherds, an announcement in their own language.

On the fields around Bethlehem lambs were tended, and whoever wanted to protect newborn, especially pure lambs wrapped them gently in cloths so they would remain unblemished. The shepherds heard the sign and knew at once what it was about. The symbolism does not begin at the cross. It lies in the manger already.