The Collected Works of Pseudo-Dionysius

E Through the Holy Trinity, they who were sanctified lay together, priceless bodies with their heads cut off at the summit of the hill This hill is traditionally identified as Montmartre (the "Mount of Martyrs") in Paris., fulfilled by the martyrdom of Christ, just as the prophets spoke beforehand concerning things to come: Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His holy ones original: "τίμιος ἐναντίον κυρίου ὁ θάνατος τῶν ὁσίων αὐτοῦ," a quotation of Psalm 116:15.. Since the worth and glory of the martyrs and priests were revealed through the life-saving faith of the Master which had blossomed, the fruit began to rise, and even more glory came to Him through his own martyrdom X and the victory of those who were with him.

T And as we honor the martyrdom of the blessed Dionysius and high priest Dionysius is often identified in medieval tradition as both the Areopagite (converted by St. Paul) and the first Bishop of Paris., his holy and eternal body was raised up by his soul as a testament. For indeed, with his own blessed hand, he took up his head—which had been severed from his body by the sword of the lawless—and clasping it, he embraced it in his arms. From the summit of the hill, he traveled original: "πηδήσας" (pēdēsas), literally "having leaped" or "bounded," though traditionally interpreted as a steady walk. two miles, supported by the strength of his feet. This was a miracle both new and ancient, to be heard by all those who came after: a body possessing its soul and head, running as was his custom like a living man; even though he was already dead, he proceeded with strong steps. This man is a cephalophore From the Greek "kephalos" (head) and "phore" (carrier); a saint who is depicted carrying their own severed head.. However, regarding his blessed companions, Rusticus and Eleutherius, the impious ones feared that if the people gathered together, they would take these "tested, prayerful bodies" The text suggests the bodies were seen as powerful spiritual vessels for intercession. for themselves to keep as a defense original: "ἀντίληψιν" (antilēpsin), meaning a source of help or protection. within tombs. Thus, a plan was made to cast them down into the watery abyss below.