medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
Also it has been the Benedictine tradition to interpret the Rule as nothing
more than the precepts of the Gospel interpreted in a specific context
(monastic house), so that the extensive Scriptural passages are in fact
considered the core of the text. That the commandments (in their NT form,
stressing their charitable basis) would be part of the Rule is unsurprising.
Some scholars have read the regulations concerning sleeping conditions as
directed towards minimizing opportunities for carnal lapses:
CHAPTER XXII
How the Monks Are to Sleep
Let the brethren sleep singly, each in a separate bed. Let them receive the
bedding befitting their mode of life, according to the direction of their
Abbot. If it can be done, let all sleep in one apartment; but if the number
doth not allow it, let them sleep in tens or twenties with the seniors who
have charge of them. Let a light be kept burning constantly in the cell till
morning.
Let them sleep clothed and girded with cinctures or cords, that they may be
always ready; but let them not have knives at their sides whilst they sleep,
lest perchance the sleeping be wounded in their dreams; and the sign having
been given, rising without delay, let them hasten to outstrip each other to
the Work of God, yet with all gravity and decorum. Let the younger brethren
not have their beds beside each other, but intermingled with the older ones;
and rising to the Work of God, let them gently encourage one another on
account of the excuses of the drowsy.
http://www.benedictine.edu/abbey/site2/rule.html#ch22
-----Original Message-----
From: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
[mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Sarah Salih
Sent: Monday, June 17, 2002 8:39 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [M-R] Benedictine rule -- question
medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
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