著者

白井 直美 遠山 茂樹

出版者

東北公益文科大学

雑誌

東北公益文科大学総合研究論集 : forum21 (ISSN:18806570)

巻号頁・発行日

vol.6, pp.CXXI-CXXXIX, 2003-12-15

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Cuthbert, a bishop of Lindisfarne, was one of the most important saint in the seventh century and a key figure in the ecclesiastical and political context of Northumbria. He was venerated for the christian virtues and the merit of faith. According to the decision of the synod at Whitby in 664, he led the community of Lindisfarne to accept the Roman Catholic rule and he consecrated as bishop of Lindisfarne in 685. After his death, his community enshrined him and vigorously promoted his cult in Lindisfarne opposed to Wilfrid's threat. Wilfrid, who was also seen as saint, ruled the Northumbrian church and had a lot of landed possessions and ecclesiastical powers, but he quarrelled with kings to expel twice. Through the development of the cult, the close connection was established between the community of Lindisfarne and Northumbrian royal family. Both of them had been bothered by Wilfrid, the community was eager for protections of the king and the king intended to set up Cuthbert as rival saint against Wilfrid. It was essential for them to collaborate each other. This connection prevented Wilfrid restoring his authority. As a result, the cult of Cuthbert could enhance the royal power with increasing the authority of Lindisfarne.