Meaning - to Christianity
The Lindisfarne Gospels was a sacred item in its own right
and a cult focus. Like other sacred books it was seen as
a focus for miracles.
Although the original binding has been lost it is likely
that it would have been adorned with treasure bindings or
kept in shrines. It would have been seen on the altars of
Lindisfarne, Chester-le-Street and Durham and used during
important services. Ordinary people would see it from a suitable
distance as pilgrims to the shrine. They believed that such
relics could heal body and soul. Glimpsing its mysteriously
lit pages or covers could change their lives. It symbolised
hope and a foretaste of a more beautiful life to come.
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