In this episode of The Rule of St. Benedict for Daily Life, Kris McGregor reflects on the Eighth Degree of Humility in Chapter 7 of the Holy Rule. St. Benedict turns to the humility required to live within a shared life rather than continually shaping life around personal preference. The monk is asked to follow the common rule of the monastery and the example of the elders instead of constantly adjusting the life of the community to suit his own desires.

This teaching reveals how humility becomes visible in ordinary situations. St. Benedict understands how easily self-will hides behind explanations that sound reasonable. The Eighth Degree loosens that habit by forming a heart that can receive what has already been given. Rather than insisting on personal control, the humble person learns to live faithfully within the order and rhythms of community life.

Although written for monks, this wisdom reaches into daily life for everyone. In marriage, family life, the workplace and parish life, people are constantly invited to live within a shared structure that requires cooperation and trust. The Eighth Degree of Humility teaches that peace grows when a person no longer needs to control every circumstance, but learns to receive the life God has placed before them and live it faithfully.

Benedict of Nursia, The Rule of Saint Benedict, Chapter 7 § 55 (RB 1980)

“The eighth degree of humility is that a monk do nothing
except what the common rule of the monastery
and the example of the elders require.”

“Octavus humilitatis gradus est, si nihil agat monachus nisi quod communis monasterii regula vel maiorum exempla docent.”

“Obey your leaders and submit to them;
for they are keeping watch over your souls.”

1. Where do I find myself resisting the shared responsibilities or structures of my daily life?
2. Do I often feel the need to adjust situations so they better match my preferences?
3. What does it mean for me to receive the responsibilities and relationships God has already given?
4. How can learning from the example of others help form humility in my life?
5. Where might God be inviting me to trust His work in the community around me?

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