Humility
The first and probably biggest theme within "The Rule of Saint Benedict" is the concept of humility. The book even offers a clear hierarchy of humility, giving humility towards God the highest ranking. The concept of humility should define a monk's life. In a time when life for the common people was less than ideal, a monk's life was often a way to remove hungry mouths from ones table. This rule of humility made sure that this life is not something everyone is aiming for.
Ora et Labora
The best-known phrase from the rule is also its defining feature: pray and work. A monk's life should focus on these two concepts. Their daily life is ordered by a strict plan of prayers, while their other time is filled with hard work to keep the community alive. The basic structure of a monastery in the early medieval period is one that is self sufficient and has no need for charity from the outside. This structure defined by Benedict of Nursia is unique, as it separates the spiritual community completely from the rest of society.
Pax
Another defining feature of the rule is the concept of pax, peace. A monk is ruled by an eternal aim to reach maximum peace. Ideally there is not conflict between brothers and no conflict with the outside world. This inhumane structure of life is achieved through a strict behavioral code that defines each moment of the monk's life.
Reclusive nature of monasteries
Connected to the first and second theme, Benedict of Nursia defined a community of brothers to be separate from the rest of the world. In his definition, which appears multiple times throughout the book, a monk has to be secluded in order to reach true spiritual freedom. Only this freedom allows a monk to reach God, which is the main goal of the monastery. It is this basic concept that created monasteries that look more like fortresses than places of spiritual guidance.
Obedience
According to "The Rule of St. Benedict", the life of a monk is mainly defined by obedience. They are bound by obedience not only towards God and his creation but also towards the hierarchical system of the monastery. The rule defines a way in which these hierarchical structures are maintained and how each individual has to behave according to his position within the monastery. It is interesting that these highly structured communities are one of the first examples in medieval Europe to practice a form of democracy.
