Written in the 6th century by St. Benedict of Nursia, the Patron Saint and father of Western Monasticism. Once the only rule for religious life accepted in the Latin Church, now followed by Benedictine, Cistercians/Trappists and other religious communities seeking life in community in search for God.
RB 1980: The Rule of St. Benedict in Latin and English with Notes
A translation of St. Benedict's Rule for the occasion of the 1500-year anniversary of his birth, this volumn, edited by Timothy Fry, OSB and other Benedictines includes Latin and English versions of the Rule of St. Benedict on opposite pages, as well as extensive information on the history of monasticism in both Eastern and Western Christianity, the history and precursors of St. Benedict's Rule, discussion of monastic topics such as terminology, the role of the abbot, monastic discipline, formation and scripture, a Latin concordance, thematic index, and scripture and patristic references found in the Rule. 627 pages. Soft cover. Published by Liturgical Press, 1981.
$39.95
RB 1980: The Rule of St. Benedict in English
A pocket-sized version of the more extensive volume above, with only the English translation of the Rule. 96 pages. Staple bound. Published by Liturgical Press, 1982.
$2.95
Other Books of Benedictine Interest
Preferring Christ: A Devotional Commentary on the Rule of St. Benedict by Norvene Vest
Norvene Vest is a well-known Benedictine oblate who writes and leads retreats on Benedictine spirituality. This books features a detailed commentary on the Rule of St. Benedict in short sections appropriate for reflection and prayer. Written originally for Benedictine oblates or frequent visitors to Benedictine communities, it is a prayerful reflection on the Gospel values for all Christians dedicated to seeking God. 283 pages. Soft cover. Published by Morehouse, 1990.
$19.95
Living with Contradiction by Esther de Waal
An introduction to Benedictine spirituality with a unique focus on the tensions we all face in daily life. 157 pages. Soft cover. Published by Morehouse, 1997.
$16.00
Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict by Esther de Waal
An introduction to the values of Benedictine spirituality for laypeople. 163 pages. Soft cover. Published by Liturgical Press, 2001.
$14.95
Esther de Waal is a Welsh Anglican layperson well known for her books on Benedictine and Celtic Christian spirituality. She is also a retreat leader and founder of the Benedictine Experience weeks, retreats held throughout the United States and Britain introducing laypeople to Benedictine life.
Seeking Life: The Baptismal Invitation of the Rule of St. Benedict by Esther de Waal
In this books, Esther de Waal takes a close look at the Prologue of St. Benedict's Rule and how it provides guidance for all Christians to live out our baptismal vows. 148 pages. Hard cover. Published by Liturgical Press, 2009.
