Ut scriptum est

Hildegard of Bingen’s Monastic use of the Holy Scriptures

Abstract

According to her own testimony, Hildegard of Bingen’s visions focus on understanding and interpreting Holy Scripture. Accordingly, the Bible is at the centre of all her works, including her letters. In one of Hildegard’s letters addressed to clerics, the various methods of her treatment of the biblical text can be observed in an exemplary way. The analysis proves liturgy to be the place where Hildegard perceives and appropriates Holy Scripture. Benedictine culture shapes both the reception and the literary use of the biblical text in her works.