William of Binning facts for kids

William of Binning was a Cistercian monk who lived in the 1200s. His name suggests he came from a place called Binning in West Lothian, Scotland. We don't know much about his early life, but he became an important leader in the church.

Who Was William of Binning?

William of Binning was a monk during the 13th century, a long time ago! Monks were men who dedicated their lives to religious service, often living together in special communities called monasteries or abbeys.

A Monk's Life in the Middle Ages

The Cistercians were a specific group of monks known for their simple lives and hard work. They often lived in quiet places, focusing on prayer, farming, and copying books. William was part of this order.

From Binning to Newbattle Abbey

William's name, "Binning," probably means he was from a small area near Uphall in West Lothian, Scotland. He first appears in historical records as a "Prior" at Newbattle Abbey. A prior is like a deputy or assistant to the main leader of an abbey, who is called an Abbot.

William's Important Roles

William of Binning held two very important positions during his time as a monk: Prior and Abbot. These roles involved leading and managing large monastic communities.

Becoming a Prior

On November 29, 1243, William was known as the Prior of Newbattle. This meant he was the second-in-command at Newbattle Abbey, helping the Abbot run the monastery and guide the other monks.

Leading as an Abbot

Later that same day, William was chosen to be the Abbot of Coupar Angus. Being an Abbot was a very big deal. An Abbot was the head of an abbey, responsible for everything from the monks' spiritual lives to the abbey's lands and finances. It was a role that required a lot of leadership and wisdom.

William's Lost Book

While he was at Newbattle Abbey, William of Binning wrote a special kind of book. It was called a vita, which is a Latin word for a biography or life story.

Writing About John the Scot

William wrote the vita about a person named John the Scot. John the Scot was an important church leader who had been a bishop in two different places: first in Dunkeld and then in St Andrews. Sadly, William's biography of John the Scot has not survived, so we can't read it today.

Later Years

William of Binning continued to serve as the Abbot of Coupar Angus for many years. He decided to step down from his role as Abbot on September 29, 1258. We don't know exactly when he died after that, but his work as a monk and leader left a mark on the history of Scottish monasteries.