Thorwald's Cross Kirk Andreas
 |
 |
|
Side 1 |
Side 2 |
(Side 1)
There is now only a small section of this cross surviving. On side 1 the scene depicts the figure of a man, presumably Christ, treading on the adders and thus symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
He hold in his left hand a cross and in the right a book. These, together with the fish, are all, of course, Christian symbols.
The Runic inscription rins down the edge instead of upwards which is more usual. It reads:
"Thorwald erected this cross.
Then there I shall come One yet mightier,
Though Him I dare not name."
(Side 2)
This side illustrates the devouring of Odin by the Fenris Wolf.
The raven is on Odin's shoulder abd the god's right foot is in the jaws of the wolf as he attacks it with the spear - Gungner.
In this myth, the wolf is slain by Odin's son, Vidar the Silent.
[Source: Maureen Costain Richards R.B.V]
[Acknowledgement: Manx Crosses]
Author of this Article: Maureen Costain Richards R.B.V