CASSINESE BENEDICTINES Meaning and
Definition
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The Cassinese Benedectines are a religious order of monks within the Roman Catholic Church that follow the Rule of Saint Benedict. They are part of the larger Benedictine family and adhere to the principles and traditions outlined by their founder, Saint Benedict of Nursia.
The Cassinese Benedictines derive their name from the Abbey of Monte Cassino, which is located in the Italian region of Lazio. This abbey holds a special significance within the Benedictine tradition as it is considered the birthplace of Western monasticism.
The Cassinese Benedictines, like other Benedictine communities, live according to a strict regimen of prayer, work, and community life. They are known for their dedication to the opus Dei, or the divine work, which involves the commitment to regular prayer, liturgical celebration, scriptural study, and contemplative practices. Additionally, they engage in manual labor or intellectual work, depending on the talents and expertise of each individual monk.
Their daily routine typically includes several liturgical services, such as the Opus Dei, which is divided into the celebration of the Divine Office (Liturgy of the Hours), the Holy Mass, and time for personal prayer and reflection. They also engage in manual labor, which can range from agricultural work, brewing, or other artisanal activities that contribute to their self-sufficiency and support their monastic life.
The Cassinese Benedictines are characterized by their commitment to stability, obedience, and conversion of life, seeking to grow closer to God and live in harmony with their fellow monks. They strive to uphold the Benedictine values of humility, simplicity, and hospitality, welcoming visitors and offering spiritual guidance to those in need.
Etymology of CASSINESE BENEDICTINES
The etymology of the phrase "Cassinese Benedictines" can be broken down as follows:
1. Cassinese: The term "Cassinese" refers to the town of Monte Cassino in Italy, which is the site of the famous Benedictine monastery. The town's name, "Cassino", has its roots in Latin. It is believed to be derived from the Latin word "cassanus", meaning "belonging to or coming from Cassius". The origin of "Cassius" is uncertain but is thought to be of Sabine or Etruscan origin. Over time, the name has evolved to "Cassinese" to refer specifically to the Benedictine order originating from Monte Cassino.
2. Benedictines: The term "Benedictines" refers to the monastic order that follows the Rule of Saint Benedict, written by Saint Benedict of Nursia in the 6th century.
