This Vice Especially
In the monastery, all possessions are considered community property, and individuals are expected to follow the rules and submit to the Abbot's authority.
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.
Text
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.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Community Property
- The Role of the Abbot
- The Consequences of Disobedience
- Warning and admonishment for the first offense
- Punishment for repeated offenses
Key Quotes
“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--” — St. Benedict of Nursia
“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.” — St. Benedict of Nursia
“If anyone is caught indulging in this most wicked vice, let him be admonished once and a second time.” — St. Benedict of Nursia
Application Points
- Recognize that your possessions are not your own, but rather a resource for the community.
- Submit to the authority of the Abbot and follow the rules of the monastery.
- Prioritize spiritual growth and development over personal desires and interests.