¹ So that the holy deeds of our predecessors may not be passed over in silence — for deeds heard from the wise and committed to memory cut away the deformities and stains of mind and speech, and furnish each of them with the fullest capacity for doing rightly what is his own — I have resolved to tell of a certain man dear to God, so that an example may the more readily be set before hearers; for he who strives to merit being made dear to God will never be defrauded of his just desire, according to what has been said: “Seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you.” May the power of Christ, who is the beginning of all good and who calls His own to salvation, accompany the carrying out of this work.

² This man Brendan, then, lived in the western island called Ireland, born of noble parents, of royal stock indeed; and despising the riches of temporal things, which are rightly called transitory, he took the monastic habit, so that he might spend his life as though in exile, seeing that it is not easy in the company of men to avoid contracting a stain. He kept the rule he had undertaken so wonderfully that, against his own will, he was elected and received into the dignity of abbot. Through his skill and industry many took up the rule, whose souls are gathered in Abraham’s bosom for their merit. The number of his monks was as many as three thousand, who, established partly in cells and partly in the abbey, strove zealously after his example toward the good.

³ Abbot Brendan, well instructed in good things, never wearied by fasts and almsgivings, persisted always in prayers for himself and his own, and for the living and the dead, keeping in mind the saying: “He who prays for others labours for himself.” But he won one special thing from the Lord in his daily prayers: that He would show him the paradise in which He had formed the first man — which would have been our hereditary right, had we not been defrauded of it by the sin of Adam our father. He did this because he had read that this was a place of delight and glory, into which entrance lies open to none but those clean of sin. On the other hand, he longed to see the stinking dungeons of hell, which receive their own in an insatiable gulf and drag them down into the affliction of punishments, where the house of mourning and horror is everlasting.

⁴ Brendan pursues his purpose: at the prompting of his religion he withdrew to a certain servant of God named Barrus, who, outstanding in character and uprightness of life, dwelt in a remote part of a forest with three hundred monks subject to him. To him Brendan made his confession; and when counsel was asked of him, he said that he had seen a certain island which was akin to paradise, which neither corruption of air nor the rage of storms had touched, and that there he had been fed by the scent of the flowers that grow in paradise — an island which he had sought through the various regions of the world for his little foster-son Mernoc, who had crossed over to it, and who had been a brother of that place of which Barrus was abbot.

⁵ When Brendan heard that Barrus confessed he had seen such things, he put greater faith in his words; and seized more and more by the desire of his mind to accomplish his purpose, they took leave of each other and he returned to his own dwelling; and there he chose fourteen monks, whom he knew to be pre-eminent in faith and religion, and to them he laid open all that he had in mind, following the course of his proposal. They, walking two by two and turning over in turn what they had heard, came back to one counsel, declaring that it pleased them; and giving thanks, they added many prayers that he would carry out his design and take them with him; and at Brendan’s request, that he might be sure of them, they all unanimously promised him their faithfulness.

⁶ Their answer received, the abbot at once led the chosen men into the chapter-house, and addressed them thus: “My friends and chosen ones, through whom religion has never suffered loss, and you, sweet flock, foundation of our house, who have always furnished the Church with a fostering of good men — how bold a thing it is to conceive, how great a deed to accomplish, what we have proposed, we do not doubt. Let us therefore pray the God of heaven to be our teacher and our guide to the fulfilling of our purpose; and let us appoint a fast of forty days in honour of the Holy Spirit, fasting three days in each week.” At these words they all gave their assent. The abbot, for his part, never ceased from prayers until our Lord Jesus Christ made known through His angel what he was to do, and inspired him by the Holy Spirit, so that he held it as sure and certain that God’s will favoured the undertaking of the journey. Then he told his brothers what had happened, and committed them to the prior as their shepherd, and bade them serve his commands as his own; and he gave each one a kiss, and they fell into long embraces; and many shed tears at the added farewell, for he wished to take only those fourteen.

⁷ The just shepherd takes his way toward the sea with the brothers, where the Lord had foreshown through His angel that he should commit himself to the deep. Now there was there the peak of a certain mountain, rising into the clouds and stretching far into the ocean, which is still called Brendan’s Leap by his countrymen; in front of which the sea, rolling in, had made a little harbour, so that by its calm it could afford shelter to a ship. Here the abbot gathered a great many things for building his vessel, which he joined with planks on the inside, covered round with ox-hides on the outside, and smeared over with pitch, so that it might steer a straight course through the billowing of the waves. Then ship’s gear and fittings were put aboard, and likewise victuals enough for forty days.

⁸ Then Brendan said: “Come aboard, brothers, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; for the Lord has given us a favourable wind.” All obeyed his command and went aboard, Brendan following. When this was done, behold, three of his brothers followed at top speed, who, stretching out their hands, said: “Our father and shepherd, we could not bear your absence; and so we have followed you. Do not leave us behind, but take us as companions for the journey.” The abbot knew them, and received them into his company; and in the spirit of prophecy he foresaw by God’s will what would befall them, saying to them: “Two of you will possess an everlasting punishment in the pit with Dathan and Abiram, and the third, wearied by many temptations, will nevertheless be saved by God’s grace.”

⁹ This said, he raised his hands to heaven and prayed God humbly to keep His faithful from the torments of storms and to direct them into the right way; and with right hand raised, he fortified everything with the defence of the holy cross. The mast is raised at once, and the sail, opening its bosom, offered itself to the winds; and with the north-west wind Corus blowing, their course was set toward the east. Without delay their land withdrew from their sight, so that only clouds and sea met their gaze. The wind that favoured them did not breed idleness in them, as it usually does. But all, wishing their bodies to labour for the love of Jesus, put their hands to the oars, that the sail might not be kept waiting for the wind.

¹⁰ Thus they were carried along cheerfully for fifteen days, until the wind failed and denied them progress. At this they were all cast down, overcome by stupor. The abbot, whose spirit was ever steadfast, began to exhort them, saying: “Do not be sad, brothers. When the wind favours us, take it gladly; and when it is contrary, let help be asked for.” Then, with a very long and toilsome pull, they all fell to the oars and called upon the name of the Lord. But it was unknown to them where they were bound, or where to steer the prow.

¹¹ For a whole unbroken month the wind gave no help; the oars ceased, and a stupor came over them and bred great fear. But let us take an example from this event, that those who take on heavy burdens for the love of God may know that God’s help is always at hand. For these men, who a little before had been desolate with fear and very many hardships, were made glad and safe. For they catch sight of a high and towering land; and those who had before been wearied by the thrust of the oars took rest, and were borne by the wind’s blast toward the land they had seen; but no way of approach lay open to them, for the land stood high above the sea, and below it was rocky — a place where the sea had made a great hollow fit for the ship, into which the waves, dashing in, at once rolled back with a rebound, so that if the ship came near it would quickly put her in peril.

¹² They circle this land, seeking a harbour for three days, and at last found a small one which could give rest to a single ship alone. Glad at the find, they made the ship fast with a rope and went up onto the land; and walking along the path they had found, they came to a castle encircled by a crystal wall such as they had never seen before. They went in and found beautiful houses, not built of wood but strong in marble and splendid with gems shining with the lustre of precious gold. Everything was agreeable to them, except that they saw no one there.

¹³ The abbot went into the palace with his companions and sat upon a precious seat; and he said to his disciples: “Go and search the workshops of this house, and see whether you can find anything we need.” They went and found the things suited to them — namely, places aptly stocked with food and drink and vessels of silver and gold, and whatever they judged suitable. To these things the abbot said: “Bring us food with which we may be refreshed; but take care that, clinging to temperance, which is the soul’s greatest virtue, you take in moderation, and humbly beseech God each man for himself with prayers, lest any of you, assenting to the blandishments of the wanton flesh, should through the demon’s deceit fall into some fault.” He said this, foreknowing what would come to pass. All approved these words, and brought food not beyond measure, and ate as much as sufficed them for the hour; and, as their teacher had commanded, they strove to persist in prayers.

¹⁴ Wishing to pass the whole night there, they stayed in that place. And when the hour of rest had come, they took their rest in the bedchambers. When all had fallen asleep, behold, Satan seduced one of them with deceitful allurements, and put the desire to steal gold into his heart. But the abbot, whose spirit was ever watching, saw how a golden cup was held out to him, and how the man rose and took it, and hid it in his wallet, and then returned and lay down in his bedchamber. Let us not marvel that the abbot saw this without the aid of a lamp; for what is shown by God can be shown without the help of a candle.

¹⁵ Then the brothers stayed there for three days, and departed on the fourth. And Brendan said: “Take nothing away from here, brothers, except what you brought here — not even bread or water.” And with tears poured out he said: “Look, brothers, at that man, who was seized by such great madness of mind that this night he became a minister of the demon by stealing.” The guilty man, perceiving that Brendan knew this, threw himself at his feet and made confession before them all, and Brendan said: “Pray for him, brothers, for today you will see him die.” Then indeed, in their sight, Satan went out of his body, and crying out said: “By what right, Brendan, do you cast me out of my house?” Then, confession and absolution received, he was seized by the bonds of death and went the way of all flesh; and his spirit passed to the house of God into eternal rest, and his body was at once given over to burial while his companions poured out prayers — the man indeed declaring what now plainly appears.

¹⁶ They drew near to the shore, and a certain messenger of God, who had brought them bread and drink, addressed them thus: “Take this; and whatever peril you may see, be not terrified, strengthened with firm faith, but be secure, for the Lord will give you every good. And by the power of Christ, which is great indeed, what you seek, though harassed by punishments, you will see joyfully. Do not fear that the want of food will sadden you; before this food fails you, you will have a greater supply of another.” And with head bowed, a farewell was exchanged on both sides, and departing he spoke no more.

¹⁷ It is clear that God’s grace gave its assent to the journey of His servants; and having seen the miracles, they joyfully gave thanks and praises to God. And since by God’s gift an abundance of food was given them, their spirits were ready for prayers. The wind quickly carried them aboard the ship to remote parts of the seas; and God’s aid was ever their companion. A great part of a year was consumed in traversing the sea, and they were worn out with heavy toil. At last, seeing land, they steered the ship for it, and increasing its speed with the thrust of oars, they landed. Next they came to an island where there were flocks of sheep. Leaping ashore, they saw flocks of sheep covered with white fleeces, whose size was comparable to that of stags. Then the abbot said to them: “Our stay here will be for three days. Today is the day of release. Let us celebrate the feast of Him who suffered death for us. He is Himself gracious to us in all things. Put your ship on the dry land; and kill one of these sheep for the paschal day; and since no other is present, let us take leave from God.”

¹⁸ They obeyed his command and stayed there three days. On the third day a certain messenger of God came to them and greeted them on God’s behalf. He had hair touched with the whiteness of age, and eyes shining with youthful radiance. He had lived a long time without any peril. He brought them bread from his own country — large cakes, very white and unleavened; and if the lack of anything they needed should grieve them, he promised to supply help. The abbot asked who he was, but — I do not know whether he dared — he revealed little to him. He said he had an abundance of all the things his mind could desire. Then the abbot began to ask about the abundance and size of the sheep. To whom he said: “Do not marvel, for the care of pasturing causes no trouble to the shepherd. All corruption of air is absent, and every wintry storm; no one dies here of sickness. Board the ship with your brothers, and go to the island you see, and you will stay the night there, and the next day you will celebrate the paschal feast, and before night you will depart. The reason for so early a departure will become clear to you. Then you will pass by this land and cross to another place; and I will follow you there and supply whatever is needful to you.”

¹⁹ Brendan went aboard and, with the wind blowing astern, steered the prow for the island, to which, though somewhat remote, he was quickly carried. All went ashore except the abbot. Then they persisted in the night prayers; and when morning came, they performed the paschal office excellently on the ship with glad morning praises, as though in church. That done, they were bidden to carry flesh to the land to be cooked, that they might feast in the paschal manner. The meal was at once prepared, and they were bidden to sit down. Meanwhile the island moved, and fleeing from the ship began to draw away, and all burst into a great cry, saying: “Father Brendan, do not forsake us.” To whom he said: “Do not be terrified, brothers, but let your trust be fixed in God. Gather up all our food and come aboard.” And he cast ropes to them; yet in boarding they wetted their clothes.

²⁰ They all went aboard; but the island fled away at top speed, and they could see the fire they had made upon it at an interval of ten leagues (or miles). Brendan, to whom no truth was hidden, addressed his companions, saying: “Do not marvel, brothers, at the fleeing island; for it is not land but a certain sea-beast that exceeds all others in size. Therefore the Lord wished it to be shown to us, that we might know all the more that ‘God is wonderful in His saints’; and the more you will see, the stronger in faith you will be, and the more you will fear God.” When this was said, they had already crossed a great part of the sea; and they saw the towering land, just as the brother had foretold; to which they quickly came.

²¹ Next they came to the island they had seen, which was called the paradise of birds; and landing they went ashore, and drew their ship onto dry ground by a certain stream. Now at the stream’s source there was a certain tree, all covered with whiteness, having broad leaves which were red but oversown everywhere with white spots. It was very tall, its top stretching into the clouds, and most fruitful with boughs and leaves from the summit all the way down, so that by its density and breadth it shaded the land on every side and did not allow it to lie open to the sight of the sun. It was covered with white birds such as man had never seen.

²² Brendan marvelled greatly at the sight, and earnestly prayed God to make known to him about the birds whose abundance he saw, and about the place he was in. His prayer finished, one of the birds at once descended, and the air struck by its wings made a sound like that of a ringing cymbal. When it had settled on the ship, the abbot began to speak: “If you are a creature of our Lord Jesus Christ, take heed to my words. Reveal to me what you are, and what you do in this place, and likewise of the other birds.” The bird answered: “We are angels, and we fell from heaven with him who, overcome by his own pride, suffered ruin with his countless comrades — whose master and shepherd he had been, and whom he was bound by God’s great power to instruct in wisdom. But stirred by pride, turning his virtue to vice, from Lucifer, ‘Light-bearer’, he was named Letifer, ‘Death-bringer’; he despised the word of his Lord. We, however, obeyed him afterwards as before; and so we were cast out. But because we were not the perpetrators of that deed, by God’s power we are not afflicted with punishments, as are those who were stirred by pride with him. We lack no good, except that we do not see the majesty of the Lord, nor His presence, nor the glory in His sight. This is the paradise of birds; and today a year is completed since you suffered the torments of the sea. Six more remain before you come to paradise. The ocean will toss you with very many labours, and in each of these years you will celebrate the paschal feast upon the sea-beast.” This said, it flew up to the tree from which it had descended.

²³ When the sun with its declining course drew toward its setting, they all began to sing with equal harmony and sweet voice, and gave praises and thanks to God with loud-sounding modulations, because it was granted to them, exiled, to see a man of human creation — which was indeed a marvellous consolation to them, since God had never before sent any of the human race to them. Hearing this, Brendan said to his companions: “Hear, brothers, how great a glory to these angels of God comes from us. Praise and glorify God, for He loves us more than you believe.” The holy men, desiring the rest of the land, sat on the shore and refreshed themselves; and afterwards care was given to celebrating the night office. Then too they laid down their weary limbs on their beds to take rest. Worn out with toil they were soon asleep; yet at cockcrow the morning office was most devoutly celebrated, and in the responses the birds answered together with them.

²⁴ When morning came and the sun poured out its rays, behold, the servant of God through whose instruction they had been taught, and by whose provision they had food, spoke to them, saying: “I will give you a sufficiency of food, and without the labour of acquiring it you will stay here until the octave of Pentecost, for after long and heavy labours a stay of two months is granted you.” Having taken leave he departed, and returned on the third day; and so, visiting his friends each week, he comforted them; and they ordered their works according to his counsel. As the time of the appointed limit drew near, they strengthened their ship with joints and covered it round with ox-hides, for the frequent buffeting of the waves had loosened the rest.

²⁵ Thus they provided for themselves in all things, so that forced by no want they might fail in their journey; and that servant of God gave them bread and drink abundantly for the space of eight months, nor could the ship bear more; and he joined kisses to each one, and they departed. Mingling great weeping with it, he showed them in what direction they should steer their course. Meanwhile one of the birds, descending upon the mast, said: “Go quickly, brothers. You are about to make a great and wearisome voyage that will last eight months before you come to the Island of Albeus, where you will keep the Lord’s Nativity.” The bird saying no more, the sails are spread to the winds, and they are borne away.

²⁶ They all rejoiced at the wind’s favour, and while it was favourable they pressed on in a swift course. But as the wind grew, their fear grew too. Then after four months they saw land, but the approach to it was difficult, so that at last at the end of the sixth month, wracked with toil, they came to land. But neither harbour nor rest could be found for the ship, so that circling the land for forty days they at last landed, for the land was rocky, raised high above the sea, and by the working of nature it had a certain harbour in which they took rest.

²⁷ This was indeed pleasing to them, for they were wearied by the storm and fear. Then the abbot said to them: “Let us go out and see whether we can find anything we need.” And going out, they at once found two springs, from one of which clear water welled up, and from the other turbid water gushed. They ran to them as thirsty men, wishing to quench their thirst. The abbot rebuked them with his words, saying: “Keep yourselves from your desires until we have spoken with the men of this country. For we do not know of what nature are the streams we have found; and therefore I forbid you to taste them.” They trusted the abbot’s words and held back their thirst.

²⁸ Meanwhile a certain very great old man came running to them at top speed. He would have struck them with awe and fear, had he not had the monastic habit; for he was a monk, but uttering no word he threw himself down before Brendan’s feet; but he was quickly raised by Brendan’s hand. Then indeed, his head humbly bowed, he took the abbot’s right hand to lead him to his dwelling, and made signs to his companions to follow. As they went, the abbot began to ask what place that was; but he answered him not a word. Yet looking at him with a cheerful face, he made a sign of great joy; and as they walked, they saw the place to which they were to go. For there was a certain abbey there, to which none beneath God’s throne could be compared in beauty and goodness.

²⁹ The abbot of the church bids the relics be carried out — crosses, shrines, and precious books likewise gleaming with gold and gems, together with thuribles shining with gold and precious stones. Their garments indeed sparkled with gold, finer than which Arabia could not produce. They are adorned with great sards, topazes, and jaspers; and they have no gems brighter than their jaspers. All the monks go out with the abbot clad in albs, and make a procession with great joy and gladness; and, kissing the others, each takes one by the hand and leads him in. When they had been led in, the office was celebrated in the most seemly manner. After this they entered the refectory, where no one was permitted to speak except the reader alone. They were refreshed with white bread, sweet and wholesome; and delighting in the dignity of it, they ate roots in place of splendid dishes, and were very well satisfied. They drank sweet water, which is pleasant to the palate and a preserver of health. Refreshed, they rose from the table; and chanting the ‘Miserere’ they went to the church. Those who had served at the meal were then refreshed in the refectory.

³⁰ Then, when the little bell had been struck and the hour sung, the abbot led them out and explained to them his own story and that of his monks — who he was, where they had come from, and how long they had dwelt there; saying: “We are twenty-four living together in this enclosure. Eighty years have passed since the death of our father Albeus the pilgrim. He was a rich man and had a great estate. But for love of this place he left all his possession, for God’s messenger appeared to him and led him to this place, and entrusted to him this church ready furnished, which we still possess. When we heard that the pious Albeus had dwelt here, by God’s grace we gathered here, and as long as Albeus lived we obeyed him as our master and shepherd. But when he had made us learned in keeping the rule and the order, by God’s will he yielded to fate and died, eighty years now gone by. Since then the Lord has so kept us that no evil has saddened us, no adversity has befallen us, and no bodily sickness or weakness has weakened us. We have our food from God, nor do we think to have it from elsewhere; for there is no steward who brings or bestows it, and no purveyor who seeks it out or distributes it. But on every non-festal day we find two loaves each ready at hand, and on a feast day two each again, so that we may eat twice in the day. Of those springs which you saw today and nearly drank from — the one that is clear is cold, and provides our drink; and the other is hot, and furnishes water for our washing. The fire in our lamps is kindled at the fitting hours, and no matter of oil or wax is consumed by that fire, and it needs the work of none of us, for it is extinguished and relit of itself. Before we knew of your coming, God furnished us with food, for He gave us more than usual, and we knew from that that He wished to receive you here. You will stay with us until the octave of Epiphany, and then you will depart.” Brendan answered: “I know no place where I would more gladly stay than here.” And the abbot said: “Seek the place which has estranged you from your fatherland, and you will return to your fatherland; and there you will die, where you took the beginning of life.”

³¹ As the day drew near on which Brendan must depart, he went to the abbot and obtained leave from him. The abbot with his monks conducted Brendan and his companions toward the sea. They boarded the ship, and with a favourable wind blowing, the Island of Albeus, by reason of its great distance, was soon lost to the watchers’ sight; and so they ran on for a long time, seeing no land. Then, the wind failing, great hunger and thirst grew upon them; and the exceeding calm of sea and air made their bodies languid. And because the water had grown thick like a marsh, some of them despaired of their lives.

³² But God’s comfort was at hand; for the wind became favourable; they saw land and a harbour; and from this they judged themselves loved by God. They found an entrance for the ship, such as they could have wished for in their hearts. They found clear water, and in it they took an abundance of fish. And Brendan said to them: “From this water, brothers, do not drink beyond measure.” But they, putting no faith in his words, drank according to their thirst. They drank so much that they might rightly be called fools. For a sudden sleep began to creep over their limbs; and he who had drunk beyond measure slept according to the quantity of his drink — one a day, another two days, and another three. Brendan prayed unceasingly for his monks, over whose misfortune he grieved beyond measure. After the sleep, when they were restored to their senses, they counted themselves fools. And Brendan said to them: “Let us flee from here, lest God be given over to forgetfulness by you again. It is better for us to bear an honest hunger than to forget our God.”

³³ Then they committed themselves to the sea, suffering hardships until the day of Christ’s release, on which he returned to that land in which he had been the year before. And behold their host, foreknowing their coming, who had made a tent, and softened their weary limbs with a bath he had made, and clothed them in new garments. And they kept the Supper as it is ordained in the law; and they stayed until the third day. On the Sabbath they departed, and driven by the wind they came to the fish, and at Brendan’s command went ashore. Going out, they now found their bronze vessel which had been left there the year before. And because Gasconius had kept it so well, they were the more secure upon him, and made a finer feast. They were diligent in celebration the whole night until morning; and on the paschal day they performed the office in full. Then, boarding the ship about midday, they made for the land where the birds had been.

³⁴ Without delay they saw the white tree and the birds upon it. The birds, at their coming, did not cease to sing with great delight until they had landed. They drew their ship into the channel where they had formerly had their harbour; and behold the host, who prepared a tent for them and had stuffed their ship with food. And he said to them: “You will stay here until the octave of Pentecost. I must go away; and do not be tormented by sadness, for when it is worth your while I will not delay to come.” The ship was held by its anchor, and they passed eight weeks there. At the time of departure one of those birds was let down from the tree, and flying in a circle descended upon the ship, and made a sign of speaking. Seeing this, Brendan imposed silence on his companions; and the bird said: “Know that in each of the seven years to come, going not straight forward but as it were in a circle, you will celebrate the Lord’s Nativity on the Island of Albeus; the Supper and the Mandatum you will keep where your host shall command; and then you will sacrifice the Pasch upon the fish.” Saying no more, it flew up to the tree. The ship is committed to the deep, and behold the host, not unmindful of them, who emptied their ship of the food it carried and loaded it afresh, praying the Lord for their safety. Then the time of returning was set, and tears were shed at the parting.

³⁵ Ropes were brought from every side and set in their places. They made the ship ready for her course, and the sail was filled with wind, so that, stretched by a swelling pull toward the prow, it might carry them swiftly to the eastern parts. After this the sea became sluggish, which, as swift as before, denied them progress; so that, torn by the force of the rushing prow, the billowing on either side of the keel was, as it were, transubstantiated into a great deal of foam. When thus they had been tossed on the sea for the space of six weeks, immoderate fear came upon them, and deadened their veins with cold and contracted their nerves. For a violent storm, with the sea’s heat growing, nearly sank the ship on her beam. Then a certain misfortune more intolerable than that befell them; for a certain sea-serpent, breathing flame like a furnace, boldly attacked them. A flame issuing from its mouth, heating the very faces of those who watched, threatened the cruelest death. The magnitude of its body exceeded measure. A voice sent from its mouth could drown the voice of fifteen bulls. To its teeth’s most savage voracity one thousand eight hundred men could not offer resistance. The very waves it made by the driving of its body would alone have sufficed for their destruction. As the serpent drew near, Brendan, whose firmness of faith could be shaken by no assaults, said to his companions: “See to it that your attention is not so intent on fear that it is wholly drawn away from pouring out prayers, and so, with you perishing from the right way, God’s help be denied. Lift up your hearts, and, casting fear aside, hope for God’s solace, which will quickly deliver us, better than any outcome.” And having said this he prayed, and was not defrauded of his will.

³⁶ Without delay they see another beast approaching, which could rightly resist the former; making straight for the ship, it sent out a sound like the crashing of trees. The former, hearing it, left the ship and moved over to its adversary, and from both sides they clashed with great cries and collisions. And with heads raised high, fire was breathed from their nostrils upward into the clouds. They wounded each other with the bites of their teeth, the sharpness of which is more harmful than the point of weapons. Blood streaming from the rents of their teeth turned the water red; and salt water flowing back into the great wounds stirred the wrath of the fighters. The most savage duel at last ended, for the first, overcome by the last, suffered the anguish of death. No wonder: it was dragged in three pieces by the sharpness of the teeth. And when the deed of vengeance had thrilled the hearts of the onlookers, the victor returned to its own dwelling. And Brendan said to his companions: “Be clothed with the breastplate of faith, armed with hope, strengthened by charity; love the Lord above all things, and serve Him in fear. For He has saved us in many perils, and now too He has rescued us from imminent death by a wondrous aid. Putting all else aside, let us serve Him alone with great devotion and a diligent mind.” They gave assent to his words, and tossed all night, at morning they saw land.

³⁷ Steering for it they landed at once, and leaping out sought rest for their bodies. Then they made a tent, and drew their ship onto dry land. This done, the storm grew, and the wind against them, a certain breaking-up coming from the rain-laden, thickened clouds, threw a great tempest upon them; and moreover, lack of food threatened the most cruel hunger. But strong men can be desolated by no misfortunes, for their spirits were soothed by Brendan’s words, and mindful of the good things God had conferred on them in adversity, they could in no way be saddened. Without delay, a third part of the slain fish, driven by the wave, they saw reach the land; carried by the stormy blast, it was thrown to the dry ground over the crest of a wave. And the abbot said: “See, brothers, how great is God’s grace. He who was before harmful to us, striving with all his might, hot for the preparing of our death, now indeed as helper to the sustenance of our life is as it were offering his aid of his own accord. For you will feed on him; and though he assailed us with grim countenance, take from him only so much that your food may not fail for these three months.” Which was done. And with their water-jars and casks filled with fresh water, when a favourable wind came they departed.

³⁸ And they came to another torment, which would indeed have been greater than the former had it befallen them first; but they were scarcely dismayed by adversities, for God was wont to be gracious to them in adversities. Without delay a griffin, descending from the air and raging like a river, stretched out its claws to seize them. Its misshapen maw, and the horror that was in all its limbs, would rightly have seemed terrible to all wild beasts. No plank in the ship was so firm that it would not have been torn up, had it seized it in its claws. Striking the air most thickly with its wings, it beat so hard that it nearly put the ship in peril. As this griffin assailed them, behold a dragon, inflamed with the whiteness of fire, with neck erect and wings in motion stretched toward it. And stirred to wrath, with clashing blows they joined a most bitter duel — so that the air round about was lit by the flame issuing forth. From the blows and flames and impacts the sky resounded and blazed. The griffin was very large and strong; but the dragon was lean and fierce, and by reason of its agility laid the defeated griffin low in the sea, and went off victorious. Seeing this the servants of God rejoiced, and gave thanks to God, and departed in gladness.

³⁹ When the feast of blessed Peter the Apostle came, who was slain in Nero’s reign, they were eager to celebrate his feast with devotion and glory. But when the abbot, according to the law’s tradition, honoured the office with clear voice and sweet proclamation, the brothers said to him: “Sing in a low voice, master; otherwise we shall suffer shipwreck. For the water is so clear that we can look down to the sea’s floor; and we see great cruel fish beyond number, such as never lay open to human sight, and if you stir them with your singing we shall die.” Then the abbot, chiding them and counting them foolish, laughed, saying: “Why do you cast your faith away from you? Fear nothing but the Lord our God, and love Him in fear. Many perils have tried you; but in all things God has always brought us a saving remedy. No peril yet hangs over you. Why do you despair?” And turning back, Brendan celebrated yet more solemnly. Then too the sea-monsters began to emerge on every side, and exulting for joy of the festal day followed the ship. When the day’s office was finished, they departed at once.

⁴⁰ Proceeding a little further, they saw a certain column, the whole of whose material was hyacinthine sapphire; its base reached to the sea’s floor, and its summit rose to the clouds. From the top down to the sea’s surface a canopy, widening in breadth, descended — one that gleamed with precious gold and excelled in most delicate work. For its price the whole world would not suffice. Making for it, Brendan with sail raised entered the canopy with his companions and the ship. He saw a certain altar, where the column went down into the sea, made beautifully of marble; the sanctuary was of sardonyx, and the pavement of chalcedony. A golden beam supported it, which was fixed into the column. The lamps were of beryl, which, by the radiance of their own brightness, increased rather than diminished for the beholders the light contained within.

⁴¹ Here they stayed until the third day. But Brendan, deliberating with himself and pondering that God’s secrets were not to be searched out, said to his companions: “Let us depart. A way remains to be crossed.” And the abbot took with him a certain crystal chalice, trusting in God that he had not done ill, since he carried it off not from the goad of greed but to honour God’s mystery. The pilgrims and servants of God were far removed from their country; and yet, counting the journey past as nothing, they were bold and diligent in taking up the way; and for the exceeding love of pursuing their purpose, no hard toil could breed weariness in them; but ever glad with all their hope they pressed to the end of the labour — not because the labour was hateful to them, but because they longed with all their love that the purpose be pursued.

⁴² Then, driven by sail and wind, they saw a certain land which, obscured by a foul, cloud-dark gloom, gave forth smoke and corruption. These men, for the horror of the land they had seen, desired its absence more than its presence. They strove earnestly to steer another course; but the wind compelled them to pass that way. The abbot, feeling that all joy was absent there, said to his companions: “Now indeed we especially need God’s help, for the pit of hell is near to us.” And raising his right hand, he fortified himself and them with the defence of the cross. The nearer they drew, the more the abundance of evils appeared to them; and they could see that infernal pit yet more clearly. It sends up into the clouds from its stinking caverns and dreadful valleys flames and glowing plates, torches and crags kindled with fire. These, wandering in the air and moving on high, take the day’s brightness from them by their excessive number, and darken those beneath. From the fire ascending below a sound is born like great thunder.

⁴³ As they passed by the confines of a certain mountain, a certain fiery-mouthed demon appeared to them, and cast a great awe upon them. For he was very great indeed, and carried in his hand a hammer as big as a column. And when he returned a hostile look upon them with flaming eyes, he at once rushed headlong for their ruin, and vomiting flames from his mouth went back with long strides to his cavern. And quick to return, he carried a glowing mass by means of tongs — the tongs would have been a fitting load for ten oxen. He hurled it, lifted high, at them with great effort. A hurled missile, or lead shot from a ballista, could not have surpassed it in speed once it was raised; and the higher it rose, the more the force of its fire grew from the opposing wind. Had it struck the ship, it would either have pierced it with a savage blow or consumed it utterly with burning fire. But, God’s grace helping, it passed over the ship and fell into the sea, and long kept its heat. From the twofold opposition of the elements a great sound and seething arose. God’s servants, intent on flight, were at once carried far away by a favourable wind; and yet they looked back continually. They saw the island alight, and covered with smoke. They beheld thousands of demons. They heard the howls and weeping and wailing and cries of the damned. And from the stench of the smoke going out and spreading through the air on every side, their noses wrinkled; and holding on as best they could, they withdrew their whole bodies away.

⁴⁴ When night had passed and morning came, they saw a land near them, wrapped round with a density of clouds. To it they came, driven by the wind. That land was very high, so that its height could not be discerned by their eyes. Nor did it let its outer parts sink or rise more than its middle, but the whole, stretched as it were to a single peak, stood equally high on every side, and all was steeped in black heat. Before them all, one of their companions leapt out, never to return; and, with them listening but only the abbot seeing, he said: “For my sins, brothers, compelled and snatched away, I depart from you.” Then the abbot saw a hundred demons dragging him off, weeping and howling. And so, fearing for themselves, they departed from there. And looking back at the stern for fear, they saw the mountain for a little while stripped of its clouds. And hell was revealed to them, which cast into the clouds fires and flames and charred beams, and glowing plates and pitch and sulphur; and then, when the force of the raging flame failed, it received them back into itself. And thus it ever furnished fuel to the fierce and yet unconsuming fire — which, because it is mixed with sulphur, shall nourish an eternal fire for the damned. From which may He Himself deliver us, who reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

⁴⁵ The servants of the Lord, moved only by His love, the more they are afflicted with hardships, the worthier they become to search out His wonders. And since prosperity had befallen them on the journey by His protection, they were bolder and safer in all events. And so, seeing something like a little rock raised slightly above the sea — though not knowing what it truly was — they approached it boldly and safely at the abbot’s exhorting. It was a certain man clinging to the rock, naked and unkempt, torn in a piteous figure, who had his face covered with a cloth of some rag, and was supported by the rock. He was struck by the most frequent blows of the fluctuating waves. The wave coming lifted him high, and nearly took his hands from the rock. But departing, it made a chasm behind it, in which, as the strength of his hands largely failed and the weight of his body pressed, he threatened to fall as though about to perish. And thus from above and below, before and behind, on the right and on the left, imminent peril threatened. When the wave had thrown him back, he uttered laments and wails in a hoarse and broken voice, saying: “Ah, gracious Jesus, if it were lawful for me to cry to You. Ah, Jesus, King in majesty, will an end of my woe ever come? Jesus, by whom the firmament and the stars are moved, You will be gracious and merciful, whom I believe to have been born of Mary. Will there ever be a day of remedy for me? Can hope and prayer avail? Can I hope, who have done such things as no punishment can suffice to punish? Dare I pray, who suffered death by my own doing?”

⁴⁶ Hearing this, Brendan conceived a grief in his heart such as he had never before been stirred by. And with hand raised he fortified them all with the sign of the cross, and drew near. As he approached, the wind was at once calmed and the sea, ceasing its motion, grew still. And Brendan said: “I adjure you by Him whom you invoke, that you tell me why you are tormented by these hardships, and who you are.” Since he persisted in weeping and tears and sobbing, he could not speak more. Then answering in a low and weary voice, he said to him: “I am Judas, who served the Lord and betrayed Him. I am he who sold the Lord and hanged myself with a noose. I am he who gave a kiss with my mouth, but was discordant in mind. I am he who was keeper of His funds, but secretly spent them on my own evils. I am he who kept the offerings made to Him, which He had destined to be distributed to the poor — I, wretched, hid them in my own purse. Therefore I rightly possess these pains. They are now rich, and I the most wretched of creatures. I am he who thought my iniquities could be hidden from Him who beholds future things as present, and who is wholly contained in every place. I am he who held my Lord in hatred, and gave the meek Lamb to the wolves to be devoured. When He, the pious one, had been given into the hands of the perfidious Jewish people, He was handled most vilely, and crowned with thorns was led away to be crucified. Then, when His side was pierced with a lance, blood flowed out. Perceiving that this had been done through me the seller, I offered the thirty pieces of silver to those unwilling to take them; and because I did not confess, but raging slew myself, I am tormented with these piteous punishments. Here, however, I do not suffer pains; but I have rest from toil here, which, beginning on the Sabbath evening, lasts the whole Lord’s day. Likewise at the Lord’s Nativity for fifteen days, and at Easter, and at Pentecost, and on the feast days of holy Mary God’s mother, I rest here; but on the evening of the Lord’s day I depart to torments.”

⁴⁷ Then Brendan said: “Since there is rest here, tell me, I pray, what is counted as punishment for you? Departing hence, where do you go? What is the place of your torments?” Judas answered: “The dwelling of demons is near; nor is the interval greater than suffices for them not to be heard by me. There are two hells there, and their torments shall be without end. Of these, the one that is less dreadful punishes its own in such a way that they think no pain comparable to theirs. There is no one, except me alone, who can judge the torments of them both. For each is content with one of them; but I, alone and wretched, suffer the torments of both. One of them is set on a mountain, and the other in a valley; a vast sea divides them; yet it is a wonder that it is not all consumed by fire. The one on the mountain is the fouler pain, but the one in the valley the more horrible. The one on the mountain is hot and sweat-inducing, stretched into the air; and the one in the valley is cold and stinking, sunk in the sea. The whole day with its night I stay above; and then on the next day I go down. And thus alternately ascending and descending, I pass over to be tormented by new pains — not to the diminishing but to the increasing of my woes.

⁴⁸ “On Monday, with night attending, in the upper hell I am placed on a certain wheel, and snatched by the wind’s driving I whirl round in a circle, following its own tracks like sails. The next day, Tuesday, I pass to the lower hell, flying across the sea; and there I am at once bound with iron. And with the demons crying out, I am laid on a low bed upon spikes, and lead and stones are piled upon me, and there I am pierced with a spit, as now appears in my pierced body. On Wednesday I go up to have the pain renewed, for I boil in pitch for the space of a great day, and am dipped in black colour, as now appears on my skin. Then I am bound to a post to be roasted between two fires in a stench which alone could rightly suffice for death. That post is there for no other reason than for me alone — it glows just as if it had been kindled in the fire for ten years by blowing bellows. Then, to increase my torment, pitch is kindled with fire and smeared round me. After this I return to the pitch. No marble is so hard that it could resist this pain without being at once annihilated. But I, wretched, whatever I suffer, cannot be annihilated.

⁴⁹ “On Thursday I go down again, and am placed in a most cold and dark place, so that for the excess of cold I would rather suffer the heat of the day before. For indeed the torment of any pain, while it is present, always seems heavier to me than all the rest. On Friday I go up again, meeting countless dead. Then I am flayed, no part of my skin remaining. Afterwards I am thrust with burning stakes into salt; and in that torment I am at once clothed with new skin. And thus, flayed ten times in a day and as often clothed with new skin in the salt, I am forced to drink hot lead with copper. On the Sabbath I go down to the lower hell, and there am cast into a dungeon without the help of light. Hell has none more unclean. There, lying in darkness and stench, I nearly consume my life. The lead and copper I drank hinder my vomiting, so that by the swelling generated within, my heart is nearly forced to burst. Thus by heat and cold, corruption and pain, I am piteously tormented. But, as usual, I am drawn out between nones and midday; coming here I take rest from toil until night. Then, held fast by a thousand demons, I shall return to the torments. But if you are able, I pray, make me free of this toil tonight. For I believe you mighty, who come to these places safe from every peril.”

⁵⁰ Brendan, his cheeks wet with tears, began to ask what the cloth with which his face was veiled, and the rock by which he was supported, might signify. Judas answered: “The good things which I did in my life — few as they were — and the evils, which were many, now appear just as I did them. From the alms entrusted to me, I had bought a cloth for a certain naked man; therefore my face is defended against the blows of the waves by this veil. But because it was not bought from my own wealth, it brings me no comfort in hell. Moreover, over a certain water where many had perished I built a bridge, by which many afterwards escaped. Therefore, supported by this rock, I have here refreshment in my misery.”

⁵¹ As evening came on, Brendan saw a thousand demons approaching with torments and perils. One of them, coming straight to Judas, leapt and cast a hook into the wretched man. But Brendan said: “Let him be left here until tomorrow, Monday.” They boldly declared that he would not remain. Then Brendan said: “I command you by the Father of Jesus Christ to let him stay with me this night without hindrance from you.” Then they, leaving him, departed unwillingly; and staying not far off while Brendan remained through the night, they promised to double Judas’s pain, murmuring in low and whispering voice. To whom the abbot said: “He shall have no other punishment than what he has had by just judgement.” And when morning came, they spent a long-delayed day, and departed with Judas accompanying them. The happy band, strengthened by Christ’s power, departs, and ceases not to praise God for the fortunes that befell them.

⁵² When the companions were at last counted, they found that one was missing from the number. Marvelling at his absence, they recalled that they had lost two; but where they had lost this third, they did not know. The abbot, to whom the truth was open, said: “The Lord’s will has been fulfilled in him; do not trouble yourselves about him; he possesses a reward for his merit.” As they proceeded, they saw a certain mountain raised above the sea, to which they at once approached; but because of the land’s height, going ashore was difficult for them. The abbot said to them: “Let me go alone; let none of you come out with me.” And ascending the mountain, he walked a long time. Then making his way over a certain rock, he found a small hut, from which a man came out who seemed devout and pious to him. He called the abbot by his own name — which he had foreknown with God as teacher — and joined a kiss, and asked him to bring his companions. Brendan went back, and with the ship made fast to the rock, all came. He gave to each a kiss, naming them one by one, and afterwards made himself known to them. They marvelled at him and at his habit, and rested in the place he showed them. He was clothed in no garment, but had hairs white as snow, with which he was covered all over, in place of clothing. His face was like an angel’s, and his body like a heavenly one.

⁵³ Brendan asked him who he was. He answered: “I am called Paul by name, and I am a hermit, who, coming here with God as teacher, have dwelt here a long time free from every pain. When I was a secular, living the hermit’s life in a forest, I chose this above others, and served the Lord gladly as I was able in strength and sense. And there the Lord commanded me to come here, and to await my glory in this place. Then I boarded a ship which I found ready, and with God guiding I landed here; and the ship then returned on a straight course. Ninety years have now passed since my coming, and I have seen no distemper of weather here. By the will of my God I await the day of judgement here, at which, remaining in my flesh and bones without any infirmity, when the separation of my soul and body then first takes place, I shall be raised with the just. For thirty years an otter fed me with fish; for three days each week it brought me three fish for food, and likewise carried a little bag full of dry seaweed hanging from its neck, with which my fish might be cooked — proving God wonderful in His saints.

⁵⁴ “In this way for the first thirty years I was fed without the aid of any other food or drink; but afterwards it came no more — not because it held me unworthy in contempt, but because God did not wish my food to come from outside; and therefore He made a certain spring for me here, of which if anyone tastes, he will feel himself timely sated as though by splendid dishes. On this water I have lived sixty years, which added to the former make ninety. I was a secular for fifty years before; to which these ninety added complete one hundred and forty years of my age. Brother Brendan, behold, I have told you who I am and what I did in my life. Departing hence you will go to the paradise you have now sought for almost seven years. But you must yet return to your host, who has done you much good. He will be your guide, and you will follow him gladly into paradise, which is the dwelling of the pious. Take this water with you, which can drive off hunger and thirst. A favourable wind is at hand; board the ship without delay.”

⁵⁵ Brendan departed, leave having been given him, and gave thanks for his kindness. The ship is committed to wind and sea, and they steer their course to their host. A dense mist hid the sun’s face from them; and going the right way, though with great toil, they arrived on the day of the Supper, and staying there until the Sabbath as was their custom, they came to Gasconius. Upon him they celebrated the paschal feast as usual, judging this to be the seventh year since Gasconius had thus served them. After this, giving thanks to God, they made for the ship, and stayed two months awaiting their host, who was to go with them to paradise. He was a diligent provider of the things needful to them; and knowing well that paradise was far off, he took supplies with him sufficient for the voyage. The host and the companions boarded the ship, and departed never to return to that place.

⁵⁶ With the host as companion, all sadness was absent; and gladly they made for the eastern parts. And so they were driven by a favourable wind for forty days, so that nothing but sea and sky lay beneath their gaze. Then by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ they came to that darkness which with its circuit surrounds paradise. The dense clouds bred darkness, so that no entrance to it might lie open to Adam’s successors. The darkness was so great that if anyone were in it he would judge himself deprived of light. And the host said to them: “Spread the sail, that it may be filled with wind.” As they drew near the darkness, the clouds parted and a space was made like a street. Through it they entered, with the clouds thick on either side, proceeding as though on a safe road with the host as companion. Running through that way they spent three days, and coming out on the fourth day they were filled with great joy.

⁵⁷ For they saw that land which they had longed to see with their whole heart’s desire, and had long sought with unspeakable sweat and toil. At its edge a certain wall appeared to them, which, raised into the clouds, was exceedingly high, and the pilgrims did not know its material. A whiteness surpassing snow bore witness that it had been made by that Artificer who formed all things from nothing. It was smooth without any carving, but shone everywhere with precious gems. Chrysolites set in golden sockets produced the greatest brilliance. With topazes and chrysoprases, jacinths and chalcedonies, emeralds and sardonyxes, jaspers and amethysts, onyxes and crystals, beryls and very many other precious stones, the wall glittered evenly on every side, as though the stones had been set in it by magic art and skill. This wall, encircling paradise, was founded upon a certain high mountain, which at its topmost part is golden, and descending to the sea is marble — against which the sea, far removed from the wall, beats back the blows of its waves.

⁵⁸ A certain great gate offered an entrance; coming to it they found the way in most difficult. For most savage dragons, gleaming with the burning of fire, guarded it. Moreover a certain lance hung in the entrance, threatening death to those who entered. Its point faced the earth, and its end the sky; beneath it they had to enter. No kind of metal, not even adamant, could withstand the edge of its point. But God’s help was near them. For behold, a certain most beautiful youth, who bade them come to the shore, received them as they landed, kissed each one called by his own name; and with the dragons calmed and couching on the earth, and the lance held back by an angel, they joyfully entered the gates of paradise.

⁵⁹ Walking through the bounds of paradise with the youth as companion, they saw a land fruitful in woods and waters, and likewise in orchards and meadows that flower without ceasing. The flowers bloomed in a wondrous way and sweetly, as befits the dwelling of the just. Beautiful trees, delightful flowers, precious fruits, and soothing scents produced the greatest delight. The trees and flowers do not heed in what part of the zodiac the sun is held, but ever most aptly put forth their produce. A mild summer, ever present, offers a ready abundance of fruits. The woods are full of beasts, and the rivers of fish. Milky rivers flowed there, and dew distilling finely from heaven was the sweetest honey. The mountains were purest gold, and the sands most precious gems. The sun’s brilliance shone there without ceasing; and not even a hair was moved by wind or breeze. There was no thickening of clouds to take away the sun’s brightness. The inhabitants of this place will suffer neither heat, cold, sadness, hunger, thirst, want, nor any adversities. They will have an abundance of all good things; and, what is greater, their will shall be fulfilled in all things.

⁶⁰ Brendan deemed the space of the present stay short, and so gave diligent care to beholding those delights. The youth led them elsewhere and showed them many things; and teaching many things and distinguishing the various, he led them as they followed up a certain high mountain. Placed upon it, they saw innumerable things which the mind could not conceive. And they saw angels, and heard how they rejoiced at their coming. But human nature and constitution, and feeble flesh, could in no way bear their harmony and melody. And the youth said to them: “Let us go back; it is not permitted you to proceed, for you know but little for this. Behold, Brendan, you now see the paradise which you have so often asked the Lord to show you. But the glory here is a hundred thousand times greater than what you have seen. You shall see no more for the time; for you came in the flesh now, but soon you will come in the spirit, and await the judgement here. Take some of these stones with you, in memory and as a sign of paradise.” And taking the stones with him, and leave obtained from the dear saints of paradise, Brendan returned with his companions to the ship; the youth accompanied them, and blessed them with the sign of the holy cross as they boarded. The sail was at once raised, and with a favourable wind spread its bosom. And leaving their host in paradise, which was his own dwelling, they came to Ireland in three months with the wind never hindering them. Behold how great a course God’s grace is: what was formerly accomplished with difficulty in seven years is now all fulfilled in three months.

⁶¹ Common fame is at once spread through the parts of the lands, announcing Brendan’s coming from paradise. At this not only his parents rejoiced, but all the companions to whom the report came, and especially his brothers, who had recovered their father and shepherd. To them he himself explained everything just as it had befallen him, prosperity and adversity alike. But he counted nothing as adversity, since God’s help was ever at hand. And he told them how he had found what he sought — and more than he sought. By his example many of them became more righteous in uprightness of life. And so, as long as he lived, he never ceased to correct his hearers; and when he yielded to fate, he returned in spirit to paradise. May we merit to possess his joys through Brendan’s intercession; through the same One who lives and reigns with the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.