Holy Rule of St. Benedict

By: Saint Benedict of Nursia

Narrated by: John Polhamus

St. Benedict of Nursia (c. 480 – 583 A.D.) is an important historical figure who gave birth to monasticism in the West and shaped its course. During three years of solitude and meditation in a cave, St. Benedict was sought out by dozens of townsfolk who admired him for his character and piety. To accommodate them, he set up thirteen monasteries, and presided over them as abbot.

During this time, he formed his convictions about the ideal monastic life. These convictions are contained in the most influential guide for monastic life ever written, The Holy Rule of St. Benedict. It is written for laymen and emphasizes the value of work, community, simplicity, obedience, moderation, and prayer.

Public Domain (P)2009 christianaudio.com

History

This book challenges me. I struggle with the modern Divine Office, and St. Benedict's Rule does all 150 Psalms in a week! Even so, this book is worth it for the history of monasticism and prayer, it's fascinating to see both how much has changed and how much is derived from this ancient rule.
The prayers being read in Latin, however, is seriously annoying. If I knew Latin, I wouldn't be listening to a translation of this ancient Catholic work.

Another world apart!

Beneficial to know. It puts most of our daily challenges into perspective. May God bless the monks.

Excellent

Very well recording. The reader is clear and methodical. Perfect for a short listen. I listen to the recording often.

Great look into monastic life!

I enjoyed the narrators consistency. The book is well read and of course the author is an outstanding Christian.
Great read if you’re looking to see how monasteries were run and the dedication these individuals had to Christ.

For study, NOT for pleasure!!!

Where does Holy Rule of St. Benedict rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

You have to be a very wonky Catholic to truly hope to appreciate this work.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Holy Rule of St. Benedict?

...hard to say. :)

What about John Polhamus’s performance did you like?

Lovely.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

FOR CATHOLICS ONLY!!!