Then I saw the Lord of mankind hasten with stout heart, for he would climb upon me. I dared not bow or break against God's word when I saw earth's surface tremble. I might have felled all foes, but I stood fast. Then the young Hero stripped himself--that was God Almighty--strong and stouthearted. He climbed on the high gallows, bold in the sight of many, when he would free mankind. I trembled when the Warrior embraced me, yet I dared not bow to earth, fall to the ground's surface; but I must stand fast. I was raised up, a cross; I lifted up the Mighty King, Lord of the Heavens: I dared not bend.

The Dream of the Rood

The Neighbors.The Tide.All Good People.Speaking the Law.The Other Cheek.Standing and Waiting.Faith.Trial by Combat.Death.The Opportunity.Confessions.Not God.Suffering Enough.Acts of God.Witness.Killing the Messenger.Audience.Not God.The Secret.Indifference