The Rule of Saint Benedict is a set of guidelines for monastic life written by Saint Benedict of Nursia in the 6th century. It provides a structured and balanced approach to monastic life, emphasizing prayer, work, and community living. While originally intended for monks living in a monastic community under an abbot, the Rule has also influenced Western Christianity and guided communities beyond monastic circles.

Saint Benedict of Nursia (c. 480–547 AD) was an Italian Christian monk, theologian, and founder of Western monasticism. He is best known for his Rule of Saint Benedict, which established principles for monastic life that became the foundation for Western Christian monasticism.