The last word of St. Dominic's final exhortation to his friars was poverty.
After making his confession and being made to rest, Saint Dominic, the revered founder of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), imparted his ultimate wishes and guidance to his friars. His dying words served as a profound legacy, underscoring the core virtues he envisioned for his burgeoning order.
St. Dominic's Final Exhortation and Its Significance
St. Dominic's concluding message to his followers beautifully encapsulated the essence of Dominican spirituality and their mission. He exhorted them to embrace three pivotal virtues:
- Charity for one another: This emphasized the crucial importance of brotherly love and mutual support within the community. It was seen as vital for the unity and effectiveness of the friars in their collective mission to preach.
- Guard humility: Dominic stressed the significance of modesty and a lowly heart, acknowledging that all grace and abilities stem from God, rather than personal merit. Humility was viewed as a safeguard against pride, fostering a spirit of true service.
- Make a treasure of voluntary poverty: This highlights the profound importance of detachment from material possessions and the embrace of a simple, unadorned life. Voluntary poverty for the Dominicans was more than an ascetic practice; it was a foundational principle that enabled the friars to be entirely reliant on Divine Providence. This allowed them to preach the Gospel without the encumbrance or distraction of worldly wealth, fostering a closer identification with the poor and empowering their mission of truth.
These enduring tenets continue to shape the unique charism and way of life within the Dominican Order, which strives to seamlessly integrate contemplative prayer with active apostolic ministry.
| Virtue | Core Message | Impact on the Dominican Order |
|---|---|---|
| Charity | Mutual love and support among brothers. | Fosters strong communal bonds and unified purpose. |
| Humility | Reliance on God and recognition of divine grace. | Cultivates a spirit of service, prevents pride, and encourages obedience. |
| Voluntary Poverty | Detachment from material wealth and reliance on Providence. | Enables freedom in preaching, identification with the poor, and trust in God's provision. |
For those interested in learning more about the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of Saint Dominic, further information can be found through resources provided by the Western Dominican Province.
