RB 1980: The Rule of St. Benedict in Latin and English with Notes (English and Latin Edition)

For fifteen centuries Benedictine monasticism has been governed by a Rule that is at once strong enough to instill order and yet flexible enough to have relevance fifteen hundred years later. This unabridged edition includes the Latin and English translation with commentary. The paperback version has facing page translation. Modestly described by its author as "a little rule for beginners," this masterpiece of spiritual wisdom was written in the 6th century as a handbook for aspiring monks. Today, it ranks as the preeminent monastic legislative code. Its concise guidance fosters the development of self-discipline, supported by community worship. By the time St. Benedict wrote his rule for monasteries in the sixth century, the monastic movement had existed within Christianity for over two centuries, a period fully as long as the United States has existed as a nation. Since the 6th century, this has been one of the most influential documents of Western thought and civilization. Full of plain wisdom, the words of St. Benedict are a guide for work, prayer, study, and community life.