Imagine a monk gently tending to an elderly brother. Not one word passes between them, yet volumes communicate. A hand laid on a frail shoulder, a quiet prayer murmured—in this deep listening lies the heartbeat of the Benedictine way. It's more than merely hearing; it's an opening of the heart to all creation, attuning ourselves to melodies echoing all around us.
Leaves dance in the breeze, each rustle a wordless testament to the miracle of life. A stranger's troubled sigh—even silence speaks of unspoken need. To actively listen, as Benedict commands, "with the ear of the heart" (Prologue), demands quieting the inner clamor that separates us. Ego fades, allowing deep empathy. We see with another's eyes, feel with their heart, and their story reshapes our own.
It's more than merely hearing; it's an opening of the heart to all creation, attuning ourselves to melodies echoing all around us.
Benedictine listening calls us beyond human connection. The birdsong outside the window joins the ceaseless praise of all beings described in the Psalms. The earth itself cries out - groaning under exploitation or rejoicing in a spring rain. We witness with reverence, refusing to drown out the voices of all God has made.
The Rule emphasizes this attentiveness: "Let them anticipate one another in showing honor" (RB 72). To truly honor demands that we first HEAR. Yet, this isn't passive. We're asked to respond, a challenge in a world overflowing with voices clamoring to be heard. We are shaped by those we truly listen to—it's a responsibility.
Listening in this way builds bridges: from self to world, human to creation, ultimately to the Creator. The more interconnected we feel, the more compassionate we become. Yet it also forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about the cries of the unheard, the suffering of the ignored. This form of listening isn't an escape, but the path to transformation—for ourselves and our world.
In a culture defined by distraction and self-focus, Benedict calls us to silence–of mouth AND of mind. Only then can we hear the divine hum that vibrates through existence. So, next time you step outside, don't just walk—listen. What song sings in the wind? What lament whispers the city street? In this radical awareness, may the symphony of being awaken you anew.
In a culture defined by distraction and self-focus, Benedict calls us to silence–of mouth AND of mind. Only then can we hear the divine hum that vibrates through existence.
Interested in delving deeper into the spirituality behind Benedictine listening?
Explore the transformative power of compassionate listening as presented by Fr. Boniface Hicks, OSB, in his inspiring talk at the 2019 Steubenville Retreat. In this talk, Fr. Hicks emphasizes how attentive listening, rooted in gentleness and humility, fosters healing and vulnerability. He explores the concept of "poverty of encounter", encouraging us to set aside our own need for answers and trust the Holy Spirit's guidance. Learn techniques to affirm the inherent goodness in others, mirroring Jesus' unconditional love, and understand how deep listening builds the trust needed for real transformation.
Next Steps: Bringing Benedictine Listening into Your Life
The beauty of Benedictine listening lies in its ability to be woven into our everyday experiences. Here are a few ways to get started, inspired by the wisdom of St. Benedict:
Cultivate Intentional Silence: “Let all guests who arrive be received like Christ” (RB 53). Just as we prepare a space to welcome a guest, carve out silence to welcome the Divine within. A few minutes of intentional quiet create room for the subtle voice of God.
Turn Walks into Listening Journeys: “We believe that the divine presence is everywhere" (RB 19). Bring this attentiveness to your walks. Notice the symphony of creation—birdsong, rustling leaves, footsteps. Reflect on the interconnected dance of life, echoing the praise offered by all beings.
Actively Listen During Conversations: "Let them prefer nothing whatever to Christ" (RB 72). Focus on understanding, not merely preparing a response. Through deep listening, honor the person in front of you and support their spiritual journey, reflecting Christ's presence in them.
Listen to Your Body and Emotions: "Before all things and above all things, care must be taken of the sick, so that they will be served as if they were Christ in person" (RB 36). Our body and emotions can reveal unhealed places. Just as a wise abbot tends to the sick, attend to your aches and emotional signals with respect – they hold insights for personal growth.
Remember: It's a practice, not perfection. Start small, incorporate a few tips into your daily routine, and observe how these small moments lead to a greater sense of inner awareness and connection with the world around you.
Read more posts about Benedictine spirituality
Called to become a Benedictine monk?