"Mind must be harder, spirit must be bolder, And heart the greater, as our might grows less"
This quotation is almost epigrammatic, with the power of the statement being driven by anaphora (repetition of line structure). The intent of the poetic power behind this line may be to suggest that despite one's motivation and active desire diminishing in the name of good, that which makes us human must grow stronger. The mind, the spirit, and the heart could also be seen as metaphors for the Holy Trinity, implying that as human flaws arise, God and Christianity gives strength in the time of need.
"He who amongst this people would avenge his lord must weaken not nor care for life"
The notion of avenging is that of blood-vengeance, typical in Old English warrior culture, which suggests that one must take life for life of ones kin. This unspoken warrior code is seemingly against the New Testament, but is in accordance with the Old Testament values of an eye for an eye. Thus, in avenging their kin, they are also serving justice in terms of their faith: this implies that kinship is beyond the secular; the bonds are unbreakable and divine.
"I wish to thank you, Ruler of the nations, for all the earthly joys I have had"
The direct address increases the tangibility of God, suggesting a deeply personal connection that reduces the terror of death. Moreover, the fact God is referred to as a ruler of nations mirrors the power of an earthly king, suggesting that secular power is superficial and non-existent in relation to the greatness of divinity. In addition to this, the notion of 'earthly joys' again relates to secularity, portraying the idea that joys of the earth and heavens are incomparable.
"'I pray you will not let the devils harm my soul.' Then the heathen soldiers cut him to the earth"
The imperative "you will not" reduces the omnipotency of God, an insult. However, this can be perceived to be because of uncertainty in existence and humanity's urge towards certainty despite its impossibility. Thus, the poet suggests any human attempt to understand the world is futile due to the greatness of the divine. The use of the noun 'devils' immediately parallels to the violent Heathen soldiers, suggesting that any opposition to God is associated with the devil, emphasizing the justice of their cause.
