An unusual question... More often one hears the desire for Christians to shut up and keep their enlightenment to themselves.

No, I don't think so. If you would like enlightenment, join the monks. After all, they can guide you there, but the full path to enlightenment is achieved by yourself only, so taking a vow of silence helps one in focusing souly on this purpose, so I do not see it as selfish, merely, the best way.

Generally enlightenment isn't shared by talking anyway, so I don't think the accusation really applies.

The Buddha was considered a monk:)

That's a good question t. I never though of that before.

Where'd you get the idea that all monks take a vow of silence? Have you ever met a monk or nun for that matter?

The nun's at the abbey where I worship told me that there isn't actually such a thing as a 'vow of silence' among monastic orders. They do practice silence to a greater or lesser degree depending on the Order but even the Carthusians ~ who live the majority of their lives in silence and follow a strict prayer routine alone in their hermitages within the monastery ~ have brief periods of time when they speak with each other. Vows are most often either Poverty, Chastity and Obedience or Stability, Obedience and Conversion. There are silent orders but I don't think this is part of their vows, more a decision to practice their faith that way and even then I expect there are times when conversation is necessary and allowed. Silence is the best way to pray, hear God and gain enlightenment. This is often passed on either through texts [lots of monastics/religious have written very good books] or through documentary films, [Into Great Silence is an amazing example] so they are passing on what they learn and giving examples of their way of life for the good of others. So although it may seem selfish at first look it really isn't. Most monastic orders are very giving and generous with their time, knowledge, love and faith. You just have to search it out cos they don't advertise lol. The Abbey where I worship offers monastic weekends/retreats where you can go and participate in their Daily Offices and silence for yourself so that too is another way in which they share that knowledge with others. Many Orders offer this to the laity. Good question and every blessing CC x

I think most write it down, but very few take that vow today.

The vow of silence is so that others do not interrupt the prayer that the monk is Trying to offer every minute of their lives. Monks usually do not mingle in the community. +4