St. Benedict's Rule: An Inclusive Translation and Daily Commentary

by Judith Sutera osb

The Rule of St. Benedict forms the foundation for one of the oldest ongoing institutions in all of Western civilization. The Rule not only defines life for men and women in monasteries but has also become central to the spirituality of lay Christians across the globe. This gender-neutral translation is true to the original text but provides an alternative for individuals and groups who prefer such a version over the masculine language of the original as it was written for St. Benedict’s monks. It also offers some background into the context in which it was written, as well as reflections on its meaning for contemporary life, making it a resource for those encountering the Rule for the first time or those who have cherished it for years.

Genres: Spirituality, Faith, Religion

312 pages, Paperback

Published May 7, 2021

Reviews

[David Doel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is meant to be read in small, daily doses over a period of 4 months. I have, instead, read 4 to 5 days worth per day to go through the rule in a shorter time. Consequently, I have lost the benefit of reflection on each daily passage.

Having completed the first reading, I plan to return some day to read the rule as it was intended. My cursory reading persuaded me of the value of doing so.

[Harry Allagree · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this refreshing new translation of the Rule of St. Benedict, (Sister) Judith Sutera, OSB, lets us know the about the need for another translation of this spiritual classic, as well as an ongoing explanation of what Benedict's word actually says to modern readers. She says: "This version...is not a paraphrase or a popularized adaptation. It contains the full text...Since the rule is a historical document...many would prefer to read it in its original masculine form..." By way of her commentaries at the end of each chapter of the rule, Sutera offers clarification, both of words and of Benedict's intent. Having read many versions in past years, I myself found these quite helpful. "Primarily," she notes, "I depended on the most authoritative twentieth-century English translations, those of "RB 1980", Terrence Kardong [and colleagues]. The book is sub-titled "An Inclusive Translation and Daily Commentary"

In her commentary on Benedict's last chapter, where Benedict himself describes his work as "this modest rule we have written for beginners...", Judith Sutera points out: "Just as Benedict is devoted to the idea of starting over each day...he has instructed the rule be read regularly because it is only a beginning for beginners...To keep this modest rule, Benedict knows, will take a lifetime..."
[End of 2021 review]

[2024 review]
Not much more different to say after reading this book 3 years later. It's the kind of work that I feel compelled to read periodically. Benedict has much to offer in his Rule for today's culture, especially. One could do no better than to heed his many suggestions throughout the Rule. "The Rule" really is just another name for "a way to try to live a fruitful life with all the other people on the planet whom the Holy One, in my humble opinion, is the Creator & Sustainer of & responsible for & continually active with.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book puts St. Benedict's rule in easy to understand and inclusive words. I will return to this book often to ponder and grow and learn, I believe.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have tried to read the rule before but got lost. Having it broken down into small segments, explained, and questions to reflect on each day made it so much more understandable.
Definitely a keeper to read again!!

[Laura Swan]

An inclusive translation that respects the original text. The commentary helps someone new to the Rule of Benedict understand how it applies to their own lives. I highly recommend

[Irene Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very readable, approachable, and thoughtful translation of the Rule of Benedict.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rule of St. Benedict is a daily read for Benedictine Oblates. I have read Sister Joan Chittiester's commentary for over five years and found myself welcome of this change in perspective. Sr. Sutura also includes three questions a day for consideration and reflection.

I consider this a daily read for some time.