In this episode of The Rule of St. Benedict for Daily Life, Kris McGregor reflects on the Ninth Degree of Humility in Chapter 7 of the Holy Rule. St. Benedict turns to restraint in speech, showing how humility appears in the way a person speaks and in the choice to remain silent. Words have real power. They can encourage, clarify and strengthen, but they can also wound, unsettle and damage relationships. The Benedictine way teaches that humility governs speech so that words serve truth, charity and prudence.

St. Benedict is not condemning speech itself. Rather, he is addressing speech that is impulsive, unnecessary or poorly timed. A restrained tongue allows words to carry their proper weight. It creates space for listening and for discernment. In this way, humility forms a heart that speaks thoughtfully and listens attentively instead of reacting immediately.

This wisdom extends well beyond the monastery. In marriage, family life, the workplace and parish communities, the discipline of speech shapes the atmosphere of daily life. When words are governed by prudence and charity, they become a source of encouragement and clarity. Following the example of Christ, who spoke when it served truth and remained silent when speech would not serve love, the Ninth Degree of Humility invites listeners to discover the strength found in restraint and attentive listening.

Benedict of Nursia, The Rule of Saint Benedict, Chapter 7 § 56 (RB 1980)

“The ninth degree of humility is that a monk restrain his tongue
and keep silence,
not speaking unless asked.”

“Nonus humilitatis gradus est, si linguam suam ad loquendum retineat, et taciturnitatem custodiat, non loquens nisi interrogatus.”

“Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”

1. When do I tend to speak impulsively instead of allowing time for reflection?

2. How might greater restraint in speech change the atmosphere of my relationships?

3. Do I truly listen when others speak, or do I quickly interrupt or respond?

4. Where might silence allow truth, charity and prudence to guide my words more carefully?

5. How does Christ’s example of both speaking and remaining silent challenge the way I use words?

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