Benedict Backwards: Reading the Rule in the Twenty-First Century

by Terrence G. Kardong

In Benedict Backwards , Terrence Kardong builds the case that the Rule of Benedict is best read “backwards,” that is, with emphasis on the last chapters, not the first ones. Benedict starts out dependent on the Rule of the Master, but he ends on a much more self-assured note, revealing more about his own thoughts on matters of monastic life. Kardong shows the final chapters of the Rule are primarily about community, and they provide insight into Benedict’s vision for his monks.

142 pages, Paperback

Published March 1, 2017

About the author

Father Terrence G. Kardong, OSB

Reviews

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kardong's views on Benedictine ways

I had high hopes for this book, but I found myself arguing with the author most of the time. Argument can have its place, and I usually enjoy learning more about those I disagree with. In this context, it was a distraction. Solid writing, though, so give it a try if you are interested in learning more about the Benedictine way.

[Glenn Harden · Rating 3 out of 5]

In his reflection on the Rule of Benedict (RB), Kardong argues that the parts of the Rule that most belong to Benedict are those to toward the end. Benedict is clearly indebted to the Rule of the Master (RM), but also has his own ideas about monastic life. Kardong proposes that the earlier parts of the RB where Benedict depends more on the RM, should be interpreted in light of the parts of RB that more wholly belong to Benedict. As far as the interpretive principle goes, I think Kardong is right. His reflection assumes some basic knowledge of monasticism and the RB. Its usefulness to the reader may depend on one's own goals, as the problem of interpreting the RB is rather specific to Benedictine monastic communities. The book ends rather suddenly, a summative chapter would have been welcome.

[Nick Ertz · Rating 3 out of 5]

This turns out to be a comparison of Benedict's rule to the rule of the Master. The author's point is that the later chapters of RB represent better the actual thinking of St Benedict. The book would be best read by an entering monastic, though the chapters on Humility offer some good insights.