Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Founder of Western monasticism: "St. Benedict" refers to Saint Benedict of Nursia, an Italian monk who established the Benedictine Order, a foundational monastic community in Western Christianity.
   • Historical religious figure: He is recognized as the author of the "Rule of Saint Benedict," a set of precepts for monks living communally under the authority of an abbot.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The monastery follows the teachings of St. Benedict.
  • Many historians study the life of St. Benedict to understand early monasticism.

Advanced Usage

• "The Rule of St. Benedict": Refers specifically to the book of precepts written by him for monastic life.

  • The abbey's daily schedule is structured according to the Rule of St. Benedict.

• "The Order of St. Benedict": Another term for the Benedictine Order.

  • She joined the Order of St. Benedict to dedicate her life to prayer and work.

Variants and Related Words

• Benedictine (adj): Pertaining to St. Benedict or his order.

  • They live a Benedictine life of prayer and manual labor.

• Benedictine (n): A monk or nun belonging to the order founded by St. Benedict.

  • The Benedictines have preserved ancient manuscripts for centuries.

Synonyms

• Benedict of Nursia: The full historical name.
• The Father of Western Monasticism: An honorific title describing his role.

Related Phrases

• To live by the Benedictine Rule: To follow the monastic principles established by St. Benedict.
  • The community strives to live by the Benedictine Rule.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. Italian monk who founded the Benedictine order about 540 (480-547)