14.. . . For in the Benedictine law the highest prudence and simplicity are united; Christian humility is joined to virile virtue; mildness tempers severity; and a healthy freedom ennobles due submission. In it correction is given with firmness, but clemency and benignity hold sway; the ordinances are observed but obedience brings rest to mind and peace to soul; gravity is honored by silence but easy grace adds ornament to conversation; the power of authority is wielded but weakness is not without its support.[19]
15. It is no wonder then that “the rule which Benedict, the man of God, wrote for the monks was outstanding for wisdom and elegant in language”;[20] and today receives the highest praise from all. It is a pleasure to dwell here briefly on some of its main lines and place them in their true light; since We hope that this will be gratifying and useful not only to the numerous followers of the Holy Patriarch but also the Christian clergy and faithful.
Venerable Pius XII
Fulgens Radiatur
Encyclical On St. Benedict
19. Cf. Bossuet Panegyrique de S. Benoit, Oeuvres compl. Vol. XII, Paris 1863, p. 105.
20. S. Greg. M., Lib. Dial. II, P. L. LXVI, 200.
