The Rule of Saint Benedict
A Modern English Translation with Latin Source Texts
Edited by Brian Junyor
Ordinary Things Press
Read the Rule in modern English, with the Latin source texts and notes close at hand.
This edition brings together the Prologue and all seventy-three chapters of the Rule, an accompanying Latin source section, explanatory notes, and a glossary. Read through the English, or pause over a passage and turn to the sources behind it.
Inside this edition
The English aims to express the Rule in clear current language. Its historical monastic roles and difficult instructions remain part of the text. Notes explain unfamiliar terms, manuscript readings, and translation choices.
English and Latin appear in separate sections, connected by chapter and verse references. The methodology identifies the manuscripts and editions consulted and explains how the text was prepared.
The Latin section is primarily a working transcription of Hatton 48, with passages and alternative readings from Munich Clm 19408 identified where used. Selected checks against St Gall 914 provide additional evidence at particular passages. The edition does not present a reconstruction of Benedict’s original manuscript.
Choose how you read
Paperback
A 326-page edition, with each chapter beginning on a new page and notes at the foot of the page.
Paperback — forthcoming on Amazon.
Kindle
A reflowable edition with linked contents, notes, and return links. Adjust the type size and reading theme on your device.
Kindle — forthcoming on Amazon.
Read freely
Read the Rule online, or request a free PDF by email to read offline. The PDF preserves the print layout.
Sharing and attribution
Except where otherwise noted, the original English translation, transcriptions, notes, and glossary are offered under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International. You may share and adapt this material, including commercially, with appropriate credit, a link to the license, and an indication of any changes. Underlying public-domain material remains public domain; third-party material retains its own rights status.
Suggested attribution
The Rule of Saint Benedict, edited by Brian Junyor (2026), CC BY 4.0.
Retain the license link and indicate any changes. When reusing material, link to this edition’s published page as well.
About the editor
Brian Junyor is a Benedictine oblate living in New Mexico. He writes about work, stewardship, prayer, and everyday life at Ordinary Things.
For weekly reflection
Ordinary Things: A Year of Reflection for the Life You Have offers fifty-two reflections and questions rooted in Benedictine life.