The Eleventh Degree of Humility
The eleventh degree of humility is characterized by gentle, humble, and serious speech, using few and sensible words.
St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of humility in speech for monks, encouraging them to speak gently, without laughter, humbly, seriously, using few and sensible words, and avoiding being noisy. He refers to the wisdom in speaking less, as 'A wise man is known by the fewness of his words' (Sextus, Enchiridion, 134 or 145), highlighting the virtue of restraint and thoughtfulness in communication.
Text
The eleventh degree of humility is that when a monk speaks he do so gently and without laughter, humbly and seriously, in few and sensible words, and that he be not noisy in his speech. It is written, "A wise man is known by the fewness of his words" (Sextus, Enchidirion, 134 or 145).
Sermon Outline
- The Eleventh Degree of Humility
- Definition
- Characteristics of Humble Speech
- Scriptural Reference
Key Quotes
“A wise man is known by the fewness of his words.” — St. Benedict of Nursia
Application Points
- Practice speaking gently and humbly, using few and sensible words.
- Reflect on your speech and consider how it may be perceived by others.
- Seek to be a wise and discerning communicator, using your words wisely.