We draw a lot of information about the life of Kievan Rus from the annals compiled by the monks from the Lavra. You can also learn a lot of interesting things from the
spiritual literature of those years. But over time, secular works appeared that were dedicated to the life of society outside the church. The first such work is considered to be the “Instruction” of Vladimir Monomakh. A summary of this work can be expressed in a few words. The prince described in him what a real ruler of a huge country should be like, and turned to his children, trying to protect them from mistakes and temptations.
Not everyone can read the work in the original. For those who want to learn more about the history of the Eastern Slavs and their worldview, there is a summary of the contents of the “Instructions”. Vladimir Monomakh is considered the ideal Old Russian Christian prince, a peacemaker. It was he who convened all the rulers of the specific principalities of Russia at the Lubeski Congress, at which he called to kiss the cross and promise to end the fratricidal wars. Having performed this historical rite, not many followed their oath. The quarrels continued, and ambassadors came to the Kiev lord himself with a request to join the campaign against Smolensk. As befits a noble prince, Vladimir refused, recalling that he had made a promise on the cross. And then, saddened by such treachery, he undertook to write his message to the children.
Summary of the “Instructions” by Vladimir Monomakh
As the prince himself wrote, he composed his “Instruction”, anticipating a speedy death. In it, he tried to reveal to his descendants the truth that they had forgotten about. First of all, Vladimir reminded them of the responsibilities of a true Christian: attend church, pray every minute for the mercy of the Lord. The grandson of Yaroslav the Wise ruled the golden-handed Kiev in 1113-1125. He saw that his country was dying at the hands of the rulers themselves, who could not share power. Therefore, Vladimir bequeathed to them to live in peace and harmony. Defeating the devil, he wrote, is possible by three virtues: tears, repentance, and alms. He himself sincerely believed in what he wrote, and he himself was always just such a prince.
The “Instruction” of Vladimir Monomakh is a brief description of a selfless ruler who cares about his people. He is equally fair and merciful to the population, does not make a difference between people. Vladimir writes that the prince should not rely on his assistants, but always understand everything himself. Monomakh is the first humanist in the territory of Russia, since he was against the death penalty, bequeathed to welcome all foreigners.
Only the essence conveys a summary of the "Teachings" of Vladimir Monomakh. But it cannot express that living language, the gentle voice of the prince. If all people follow the instructions of the ancient Russian sage, the world will become better, kinder, brighter. Therefore, everyone should study this message from the past. But if you have absolutely no time to master it in its entirety, then at least read the summary of the “Teachings” of Vladimir Monomakh. It still contains the essence, that seed of truth, which the great Kiev prince tried to convey to us.