That No One Venture to Punish at Random
Apr. 28—Aug. 28—Dec. 28
Every occasion of presumption shall be avoided in the monastery, and we
decree that no one be allowed to excommunicate or to strike any of his
brethren unless the Abbot has given him the authority. Those who offend
in this matter shall be rebuked in the presence of all, that the rest
may have fear.
But boys up to 15 years of age shall be carefully controlled and watched
by all, yet this too with all moderation and discretion. Anyone,
therefore, who presumes without the Abbot’s instructions to punish those
above that age or who loses his temper with the boys, shall undergo the
discipline of the Rule; for it is written, “Do not to another what you
would not want done to yourself.”