Monastic obedience places personal will under spiritual guidance, the common rule of the monastery, and the discernment of the abbot or abbess.
Obedience is not passive indifference. It is an active school of humility, trust, accountability, and freedom from self-will. The monk learns to receive correction and fulfill responsibilities as service offered to Christ.
Within community life, obedience protects unity and gives practical shape to prayer, work, hospitality, and care for others.
Official source: The Three Vows of Monasticism: Obedience.