Benedict was born in an aristocratic family at Nursia in central Italy and had his early education in Rome. However, disturbed by the rampant immorality of the Roman Capital he retreated into a barren mountainside and settled down in a hidden cave at Subiaco in search of solitude, peace and prayer. Three years later, the monks of the neighbouring monastery of Vicovaro sought him out and elected him their Abbot. The strictness of the new Abbot was resented by a section of the inmates who even attempted to poison him to death. Benedict was only too happy to leave Vicovaro and retreat to his mountain cell at Subiaco. However, within a short while disciples from every walk of life gathered around him. Since his cave was too small for so many, about the year 525 Benedict founded a monastery at Monte Casino located on a high mountain range. Eventually this turned out to be the nursery of the reputed Benedictine Order. The Rules he drafted at Monte Casino had lasting impact on the monastic life of Europe as they were in harmony with human nature and the society. Benedict successfully envisioned the creation an organized and co-operative community life committed to contemplation, prayers, learning, manual labour and relaxation under a common father called Abbot. He insisted on moderation in everything and discouraged all forms of extreme penance or asceticism. It was the dream of Benedict that every monk be a solder of God twenty-four hours on duty per day and three hundred and sixty five days per year. He left for eternal contemplation in heaven on March 21, 550.
Reflection: The greatest achievement of Benedict was his insight into human nature, which always yearns to strike a balance between extremes. It is a challenge to establish harmony between God, nature and society. Thus his watchword was “moderation.” Emotional outbursts of fervour resulting in extreme forms of penance are perfunctory and as such cannot endure long.
If you are really a servant of Jesus Christ, let the chain of love hold you firm in your resolve, not a chain of iron. (St. Benedict)
