Christian Cyclopedia

The Cluniacs were not properly a distinct order, but were Benedictines* remodeled by the reform movement issuing from Cluny* in the 10th c. This reform purposed to restore the original strictness of the rule of Benedict* of Nursia, esp. as expounded by Benedict* of Aniane. Till then each monastery was an indep. unit; but the houses affiliated with Cluny were absolutely subject to its abbot. Gregory VII used the Cluniac movement in forcing celibacy* on the clergy. By the 12th c. the Cluniac movement was spent and in need of reform. The Cluniac order was dissolved 1790. See also Cistercians; Majolus.