The Rule of St. Benedict

Modestly described by its author as "a little rule for beginners," this masterpiece of spiritual wisdom dates from the sixth century. It was originally intended as a manual for aspiring monks, a diverse group composed of serfs, scholars, shepherds, and sons of the nobility. St. Benedict's little book eventually developed into the preeminent monastic legislative code, a distinction it maintains to this day.
In addition to its importance in the organization and spread of Western monasticism,...