08 December 2020

The Holy Rule of St Benedict, Father of Western Monks

CHAPTER LV. Of the Clothes and Shoes of the Brethren

8 Apr. 8 Aug. 8 Dec.

For their bedding let a straw mattress, blanket, coverlet and pillow suffice. These beds must be frequently inspected by the Abbot, to see if any private property be discovered therein. And if any one should be found to have anything which he hath not received from the Abbot, let him be subjected to the most severe discipline. In order that this vice of private ownership may be rooted out entirely, let the Abbot supply them with all necessaries: that is, a cowl, tunic, shoes, stockings, girdle, knife, pen, needle, handkerchief, and tablets; so that all plea of wanting anything may be taken away. Yet let the Abbot always be mindful of those words of the Acts of the Apostles: “Distribution was made to everyone, according as he had need.” Let him, therefore, consider the infirmities of such as are in want, and not the ill-will of the envious. Nevertheless, in all his judgments, let him think of the retribution of God.

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