Definition of Monastic Rules

Most religious orders were founded on the Middle Ages around a monastery in which the monks lived dedicated to some activity, usually prayer and some tasks aimed at economic sustenance. These opinions were organized based on a series of norms or rules of conduct and for this reason they talk about monastic rules.

Although each religious order has its own monastic rule, all of them are inspired by the Holy Scriptures. In any case, the content of a monastic rule can be analyzed from several perspectives:

1) as the way of understanding life in a community of monks,

2) as a document with a historical value or

3) as a spiritual guide for Christians.

The rule of St. Augustine

Augustine of Hippo (354 - 430 AD) C) he was the first to elaborate a monastic rule to organize the community life of the Augustinian monks. Its main foundations are the following:

1) the monks should live in community, share their goods and foster a environment fraternal among the members of the community,

2) an important part of the day should be dedicated to prayer,

3) one should lead an austere life and periodically practice fasting,

4) a attitude hospitable to visitors and travelers,

5) about the government of the community, it is necessary to obey the superior of the monastery.

In the document of the Rule of Saint Augustine you can find interesting reflections on the modesty, the care of the sick, chastity or the forgiveness of offenses. In chapter Xlll of the rule Saint Augustine the monks are recommended to read the content of the rule weekly.

The rule of Saint Benedict

Saint Benedict of Nursia, born at the end of the 5th century AD. C, he is considered the father of western monasticism. Before his death in 547, he wrote a rule laying down useful hints for Benedictine monks and also for all those who seek guidance in finding God.

The rule of Saint Benedict is condensed into two terms, ora et labora, that is, pray and work

However, its different chapters emphasize the importance of silence, obedience and humility as behavior guidelines that must be respected. On the other hand, the rule explains what the conduct of the monks has to be in relation to guests, the poor, the use of goods or meal times.

Both the rule of Saint Augustine and that of Saint Benedict specify that monks must not own property, but that everything must be shared. Each monk is assigned some tasks to perform and some are dedicated to the kitchen, others to the care of the sick in the community and some of them are in charge of the reading of the gospel.

The vast majority of monastic rules continue to be practiced today.

Photos: Fotolia - cartoonresource / berdsigns

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