Benedict of Nursia was born around 480 AD in Nursia, modern-day Norcia near Perugia. He was sent to Rome by his family for his education but soon felt that life in the city was characterized by decay and immorality. At around the age of twenty, he retired to solitude in Subiaco, where, according to legend, he lived in a cave for three years. His reputation grew, attracting many people who came to seek his guidance. Eventually, Benedict was elected as the new abbot of Vicovaro. However, the monks found his rules too strict and attempted to poison him. He then returned to Subiaco and founded several smaller monasteries.
He founded the Monte Cassino Monastery in 529, where he was finally able to implement his vision of monastic life. After performing many miracles, Benedict completed his life around the year 547, with the 21st of March being considered the day of his death.
Rule of St. Benedict
‘Ora et labora’ – “Pray and Work”
The Rule of St. Benedict encompasses much more than these three words. Written by Benedict around the year 540 for the Monte Cassino Monastery, the Rule addresses everything from liturgy and the daily routine of the monks to the economic independence of the monastery. Benedict primarily based his work on the teachings of earlier monastic writers, adapting and expanding their principles to create a balanced and sustainable way of life.
