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  THIS VICE ESPECIALLY
  by St. Benedict of Nursia
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Summary: In the monastery, all possessions are considered community
property, and individuals are expected to follow the rules and submit to
the Abbot's authority.

Topics: "Monastic Life", "Christian Humility"
Scripture References: Proverbs 11:2, Acts 4:32, Philippians 2:3, James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5

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DESCRIPTION
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St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of humility and
obedience in the monastery, instructing that nothing should be possessed
without the Abbot's permission, as monks are to surrender even their
bodies and wills to the monastery's authority. All necessities are to be
sought from the Father of the monastery, and nothing should be owned
without the Abbot's consent, promoting a communal way of living as seen
in Acts 4:32. Those found engaging in selfishness or possessiveness are
to be warned and disciplined if they do not repent.

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CONTENT
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This vice especially

is to be cut out of the monastery by the roots.

Let no one presume to give or receive anything

without the Abbot's leave,

or to have anything as his own--

anything whatever,

whether book or tablets or pen or whatever it may be--

since they are not permitted to have even their bodies or wills

at their own disposal;

but for all their necessities

let them look to the Father of the monastery.

And let it be unlawful to have anything

which the Abbot has not given or allowed.

Let all things be common to all,

as it is written (Acts 4:32),

and let no one say or assume that anything is his own.

But if anyone is caught indulging in this most wicked vice,

let him be admonished once and a second time.

If he fails to amend,

let him undergo punishment.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/st-benedict-of-nursia/this-vice-especially/
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