"Let him (the Abbot) make no distinction of persons in the monastery. Let him not love one more than another, unless it be one whom he findeth more exemplary in good works and obedience...
But if from a just reason the Abbot deemeth it proper to make such a distinction, he may do so in regard to the rank of anyone whomsoever; otherwise let everyone keep his own place; for whether bond or free, we are all one in Christ, and we all bear an equal burden of servitude under one Lord, “for there is no respect of persons with God.”
We are distinguished with Him in this respect alone, if we are found to excel others in good works and in humility. Therefore, let him have equal charity for all, and impose a uniform discipline for all according to merit."
A monastery is not a democracy. It is a theocratic institution with arguably "democratic" sub-mechanisms (e.g. voting to appoint the next abbot, expectation to consult all but especially the senior monks utilizing their input, good relations and fairness to all according to the Rule, etc.).
But at the end of the day, the Abbot decides for he alone is the enforcer of the Rule.
That said, at the root of spiritual matters, there is a fundamental equality of conscience before God. If we are faced with He who is Infinite, what is the relative differences between any finite creature? Our intelligence? Our learning? Our culture? Our beauty or nobility? All of these accidental distinctions-- important as they are in the temporal, natural order-- are but null value in the eternal, supernatural order.
For this reason, only one thing matters to God-- the extent to which we purify ourselves of what holds ourselves back. Why? So we can join Him, partake in His prefection by grace.
In this life, it is (1) to know Him, (2) to love Him, and (3) to serve Him.
The Rule succeeds in improving the prospects of all three.
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