The Rule of St. Benedict · 1 of 69

Prologue

(Migne, “Patrologia Latina,” vol. 66, column 215 ff.)

[The few omissions made consist almost wholly of pious expressions and exhortations.—Ed.] We are about to found, therefore, a school for the Lord’s service; in the organization of which we trust that we shall ordain nothing severe and nothing burdensome. But even if, the demands of justice dictating it, something a little irksome shall be the result, for the purpose of amending vices or preserving charity;—thou shalt not therefore, struck by fear, flee the way of salvation, which can not be entered upon except through a narrow entrance. But as one’s way of life and one’s faith progresses, the heart becomes broadened, and, with the unutterable sweetness of love, the way of the mandates of the Lord is traversed. Thus, never departing from His guidance, continuing in the monastery in His teaching until death, through patience we are made partakers in Christ’s passion, in order that we may merit to be companions in His kingdom.