Asceticism
Asceticism
Asceticism (/əˈsɛtɪsɪzəm/; from the Greek: ἄσκησις áskesis, "exercise" or "training") is a lifestyle characterized by abstinence from sensual pleasures, often for the purpose of pursuing spiritual goals. Ascetics may reject the basic needs of life, such as food and shelter, and live a life of self-denial and self-discipline.
Etymology
The term "asceticism" derives from the ancient Greek term askesis which means "exercise" or "training". Originally associated with any form of disciplined practice, the term later became associated specifically with religious and spiritual practices of self-denial.
Related Terms
- Monasticism: A religious way of life in which one renounces worldly pursuits to devote oneself fully to spiritual work. Monastic life plays an important role in many Christian churches, especially in the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.
- Hermit: A person who lives in seclusion from society, usually for religious reasons. Hermits are a part of several sections of Christianity, and the concept is found in other religions as well.
- Fasting: The practice of abstaining from all or some kinds of food or drink, especially as a religious observance.
- Celibacy: The state of voluntarily being unmarried, sexually abstinent, or both, usually for religious reasons.
- Mortification of the flesh: A religious practice of disciplining the body for spiritual reasons.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Asceticism
- Wikipedia's article - Asceticism
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski