CHAPTER 6 | Restraint of Speech
CHAPTER 4 | The Tools for Good Works "Tools." in this instance, are standards of behavior aimed at disciplining oneself and humbly interacting with others in the community. Admonitions from scripture are bountiful.
CHAPTER 5 | Obedience This quality is clearly very important to Benedict and could be called the foundation upon which his Rule rests. It is the source of humility and service and is to be given not only to superiors, but to brothers as well. It should be given willingly and not haltheartedly.
CHAPTER 6 | Restraint of Speech Here is the core teaching on silence for which monastic tradition 1s known. In general, restraint is urged. In the community, one speaks by permission.
CHAPTER 7 | Humility This much studied Chapter is perhaps the heart of the rule.
Benedict outlines twelve steps of humility: 1. Live ever in the presence of God, 2. Seek not your own will or desires, 3. Be obedient to superiors, 4. Endure obedience under unpleasant conditions with fortitude, 5. Do not hide a troubled heart from the abbot,
6. Be content with insignificant tasks, 7. Be convinced in your heart that you are of small importance, 8. Do only what is endorsed by the rule of the monastery and the example of the superiors, 9.
Remain silent, 10. Avoid easy laughter, 11. Speak gently, modestly and quietly, and 12. Manifest humility in manner and posture.
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