Rulers and Relics c.750-c.950: Treasure on Earth, Treasure in Heaven
Julia M. H. Smith
‘Long ago’, it was said, ‘most trustworthy men’ told the story of a visit to Exeter by King Æthelstan (924–939). While he there, ‘he began ponder and think about how might be best for him use his royal treasures glory God, himself, eternal benefit people’. The ‘good king’ received divine command þæt mid þam gewytendlicum madmum, þa unateoridenlican madmas begitan sceolde —that should ‘transitory treasures’ obtain ‘everlasting ones’. So sent trusted discerning men abroad, who travelled as far wide they could, using king’s riches secure ‘the most precious which could ever purchased on this earth, greatest relic collections’. tale went explain how, in generosity city where inspiration came him, subsequently endowed church had built there with one third collection. 1
Past & Present