Let Each One Sleep in a Separate Bed
St. Benedict emphasizes the importance of individuality, safety, and community in the sisters' sleeping arrangements.
St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of order, discipline, and respect in communal living, particularly in the context of sleeping arrangements and morning routines. He instructs that each individual should have their own bed with suitable bedding, ideally sleeping together in one place if possible. A candle is to be kept burning until morning, and everyone should be prepared to rise promptly for the Work of God. Younger members are to be separated from each other during sleep, and all are encouraged to support and motivate each other in their daily spiritual practices.
Text
Let each one sleep in a separate bed. Let them receive bedding suitable to their manner of life, according to the Abbess's directions. If possible let all sleep in one place; but if the number does not allow this, let them take their rest by tens or twenties with the seniors who have charge of them. A candle shall be kept burning in the room until morning. Let them sleep clothed and girded with belts or cords-- but not with their knives at their sides, lest they cut themselves in their sleep-- and thus be always ready to rise without delay when the signal is given and hasten to be before one another at the Work of God, yet with all gravity and decorum.
The younger shall not have beds next to one another, but among those of the older ones.
When they rise for the Work of God let them gently encourage one another, that the drowsy may have no excuse.
Sermon Outline
- I. Sleeping Arrangements
- A. Each one sleeps in a separate bed
- B. Bedding suitable to their manner of life
- C. Sleeping in one place or in groups
- II. Safety Precautions
- A. Candle burning in the room until morning
- B. Sleeping clothed and girded
- C. No knives at their sides
- III. Encouragement and Community
- A. Younger ones not sleeping next to each other
- B. Encouraging each other to rise for the Work of God
Key Quotes
“Let each one sleep in a separate bed.” — St. Benedict of Nursia
“Let them sleep clothed and girded with belts or cords-- but not with their knives at their sides, lest they cut themselves in their sleep--” — St. Benedict of Nursia
Application Points
- Prioritize individuality and respect in your relationships with others.
- Take necessary safety precautions to avoid harm to yourself and others.
- Encourage and support one another in your spiritual journey.