Let each one sleep in a separate bed. Let them receive bedding suitable to their manner of life, according to the Abbess's directions. If possible let all sleep in one place; but if the number does not allow this, let them take their rest by tens or twenties with the seniors who have charge of them. A candle shall be kept burning in the room until morning. Let them sleep clothed and girded with belts or cords -- but not with their knives at their sides, lest they cut themselves in their sleep -- and thus be always ready to rise without delay when the signal is given and hasten to be before one another at the Work of God, yet with all gravity and decorum. The younger shall not have beds next to one another, but among those of the older ones. When they rise for the Work of God let them gently encourage one another, that the drowsy may have no excuse.

I wonder if my post-Freudian sensibilities help or hurt my ability to understand today's reading.

Is this a big slumber party or an even bigger sublimation?

The Emperor Justinian - a contemporary of Benedict - was much concerned with sexual immorality among clergy and monastics. I may not be reading too much between the lines.

In a meditation I read before turning to Benedict this morning, I am urged to recognize that before we might be holy we must first be fully human.

I wonder if Benedict would agree. Or would this seem to him a post-Freudian dodge.