The Rule of St. Benedict

Sickened by the post-Roman turmoil of 5th Century Italy Benedict renounced the world and retired to a life of Christian contemplation in a cave just west of Rome. Revered for his sanctity local monks asked him to become their abbot. But Benedicts discipline proved too strict - the monks tried to poison him and he left to establish many small monasteries eventually founding the famous monastery on Monte Cassino and gaining the title Father of Western Monasticism. This book is the saints directions for establishing an orderly and pious monastic community covering among other matters the community authority and obedience good works control of speech and thoughts humility contemplation work vows and hospitality. Full of guidance and inspiration The Rule of St Benedict is for anyone seeking peace and fulfillment in their life.