In his introduction to this commentary on the Rule of Benedict, Abbot Georg Holzherr offers this analogy: "The Rule is comparable to an old heavy red wine that is enjoyed in small sips. . . . Head and heart, soul and mind should taste the words of the Rule, just as the eye enjoys the color of the wine while tongue, nose, and mouth take in the delightful gift of God each in their own way." In this new translation, based on the completely revised seventh edition of DieBenediktsregel, Holzherr has created a profoundly rich commentary using up-to-date research methods and the latest translations of ancient monastic texts. At the same time, this commentary is meant not only for experts in the field of ancient monasticism but also for all lay and monastic readers interested in delving into the teachings and spirituality of Saint Benedict and his spiritual predecessors in the East and in the West. This edition also features a completely revised and expanded introduction and commentary. New research in the field of early monasticism is offered, including new insights into the monastic life of women. Finally, the updated bibliography and a detailed index are valuable tools for anyone wanting to explore the extraordinary world of Saint Benedict.

Founder of a monastery at Monte Cassino, between Rome and Naples, in the sixth century, St Benedict intended his Rule to be a practical guide to Christian monastic life. Based on the key precepts of humility, obedience and love, its aim is to create a harmonious and efficient religious community in which individuals can make progress in the Christian virtues and gain eternal life. Here, Benedict sets out ideal monastery routines and regulations, from the qualities of a good abbot, the twelve steps to humility and the value of silence to such every day matters as kitchen duties, care of the sick and the suitable punishment for lateness at mealtimes. Benedict’s legacy is still strong – his Rule remains a source of inspiration and a key work in the history of the Christian church.

In The Rule of Benedict for Beginners, Wil Derkse describes how individuals -- and organizations as well -- who function apart from a monastery may emulate elements of Benedictine spirituality and follow the Benedictine motto of "worship and work" in their daily schedules. Book jacket.

The work of Dom Adalbert de Vogüé, O.S.B. (1924-2011) serves as the basis of all serious study of the Rule of Benedict. In this second volume, Vogüé first provides historical and critical commentary on texts from the Rule of the Master and other early sources, then shows how Benedict integrated and developed this material in writing his Prologue, Epilogue and chapters on the Tools of Good Works, Silence and Humility.

"A commentary on parts of the Rule of St. Benedict (prologue and chapters 53, 58, 72, and 73)"--Provided by publisher.

Founder of a monastery at Monte Cassino, between Rome and Naples, in the sixth century, St Benedict intended his Rule to be a practical guide to Christian monastic life. Based on the key precepts of humility, obedience and love, its aim is to create a harmonious and efficient religious community in which individuals can make progress in the Christian virtues and gain eternal life. Here, Benedict sets out ideal monastery routines and regulations, from the qualities of a good abbot, the twelve steps to humility and the value of silence to such every day matters as kitchen duties, care of the sick and the suitable punishment for lateness at mealtimes. Benedict’s legacy is still strong – his Rule remains a source of inspiration and a key work in the history of the Christian church (from Amazon).

A timeless source of wisdom for people looking to lead a life of simplicity, purpose, and serenity The Rule of St. Benedict has governed monastic communities for centuries, but it is far more than a standard religious text. The Rule is, above all, a handbook for living a deliberate life—no matter your religious background or beliefs. It teaches the importance of contemplation and silence, of solitude, and the power of community and unity. With lessons focusing on the simple acts of everyday life, like eating and daily work, along with wisdom for the deeply personal and internal facets of living, such as cultivating humility and practicing forgiveness, The Rule of St. Benedict is a profound guide to living a good and meaningful life. An award-winning translator, Philip Freeman’s version of The Rule is beautifully accessible in its language. With a simple and direct style, the book lays out a way of living that is transformative in its simplicity and striking in its power.

A schoolteacher and chaplain, Vena Eastwood has for several years successfully used the Rule of St Benedict for the development of school communities. This is an exciting and practical means towards enhancing the spiritual development of pupils, teachers and staff. On each page of her book a small section of the Rule is presented, followed by a paragraph of points for discussion, which are completed by a simple prayer. A page or more a day may be easily incorporated into a religious education class or school assembly. Home schools will find this resource a systematic introduction to one of the world's spiritual treasures. For the teacher, Vena has given some good ideas about presentation in her introduction, and some pages about the use of Lectio Divina in education to complete the book. The text is plain and lucid so that both elementary and secondary students can benefit from this innovative approach to practical spirituality. Many people in all sorts of educational situations are going to be extremely grateful to Vena Eastwood for her pioneer study and for the dynamic way in which she presents it. I hope that many will be encouraged and stimulated to follow her in making the way of St Benedict a part of life. ESTHER DE WAAL A practical, Christ-based tool for the building of community. We will be using Benedict's wisdom to develop our student community. VINCENT WARD, HEAD OF 6TH FORM, ST THEODORE'S, BURNLEY This practical book is ideal for those who wish to offer Benedictine insights to their pupils. RIGHT REV DOM CHRISTOPHER JAMISON OSB, ABBOT OF WORTH

The Rule of St Benedict, which dates from the sixth century, is the foundation of monasticism, one of the oldest continuing institutions in all of Western civilization. The Rule not only defines life for men and women in monasteries, but has also become central to the spirituality of lay Christians across the globe. For communities and individuals alike, the text of the Rule is central. This first ever gender-neutral translation is true to the original text but provides an alternative for those who might prefer such a version over the masculine language of the original as it was written for St Benedict’s monks, or as a text to read alongside Benedict’s original.