The Rule of St. Benedict

By St Benedict

Modestly described by its author as "a little rule for beginners," this masterpiece of spiritual wisdom dates from the sixth century. It was originally intended as a manual for aspiring monks, a diverse group composed of serfs, scholars, shepherds, and sons of the nobility. St. Benedict's little book eventually developed into the preeminent monastic legislative code, a distinction it maintains to this day.
In addition to its importance in the organization and spread of Western monasticism, this volume also offers sound suggestions for readers outside the abbey. Benedict explores issues related to charity, personality, integrity, and spirituality. Mindful of human frailty, he counsels an ever-increasing self-discipline, supported by community worship. His teachings have guided readers from every walk of life for 1,500 years, encouraging and inspiring them with advice regarding the dignity of labor, the challenge of responsibility, and the proper use of resources.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Release date: Mar 2, 2012
• ISBN: 9780486112596

St Benedict

ST. BENEDICT OF NURSIA is a Christian saint born in 480. He is best known for his Rule which he wrote in 516 to guide and instruct monks living together in community.

Reviews for The Rule of St. Benedict

[empress8411 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is a tight, sharp, clean little work. Benedict is clear and precise, with limited words. His rules seem a bit strict to my modern mind (not a fan of the idea of beating children) but I understand that during the time, this was acceptable and even laudable. My inherent mistrust of humans causes me to ask whether Benedict's rule would work - there is much room for the miss-use of power. The answer, of course, is that each monk should be so devoted to Christ that he exudes the humility and kindness of the Lord. But humans are notoriously prone to self-interest and to the use of religious belief and the name of God to further their own agenda. That aside, this was a worthwhile read. To understand how the Benedictine monks lived, and to perhaps find wisdom for living ones own life. One doesn't need to be a monk to require advice on how to deal with other humans in a manner pleasing to God. This book offers excellent assistance in that area: worth reading and worth buying.

[johnthefireman · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Full of common sense and just as applicable to life now as it was hundreds of years ago.

[harrod_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wore out but wonderful still

[mykl8s · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A venerable organization manual and employee's handbook that has been useful for fifteen centuries.

[jessica_olin_3 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I gave it 3 stars to balance my two different opinions of this book. It's excellent as a reflection of that time in history and (to a lesser extent) of contemporary monastic culture. As a read in general, though, it was hard to get into and through. Admittedly not my normal fair, so take my review in that vein.

[sc4-3 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

An interesting book with some usefulness for practical spirituality. For the most part this work concerns monasticism and directions for community life so some familiarity with the Benedictines/Cistercians/Trappists would be helpful before reading.

[edwin6gleaves · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Important book in the history of the priesthood, most especially the Dominicans.

[lillesmilla · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I would also recommend Joan Chittiser's books on The Rule; Wisdom from the Daily is a very practical application. The Benedictine life is a way to live spiritually in the modern world, with prayer, hospitality and work as the anchor in chaos whether you are an oblate, in an abbey or just wish to live a more contemplative life.

[k6gst · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Really good reading.

[john5918 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Full of common sense and just as applicable to life now as it was hundreds of years ago.