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Orthodox Terminology
ASCETICISM PDF Print E-mail
ASCETICISM (from Gr. askesis, "athlete") A life of struggle - the crucifixion of the desires of the flesh, through a life of prayer, fasting, and self-denial. Through asceticism the Christian fights temptation to sin and thereby grows in spiritual strength. Such spiritual classics as The Philokalia and The Ladder of Divine Ascent give directions for the ascetic life (see Luke 9:23; Gal. 5:24).
 

The Sayings of the Fathers

The purpose of the advent of the Saviour, when He gave us His life-giving commandments as purifying remedies in our passionate state, was to cleanse the soul from the damage done by the first transgression and bring it back to its original state. What medicines are for a sick body, the commandments are for the passionate soul. - Pearls from Saint Isaac of Syria
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