ASKITES Meaning and
Definition
-
Askites is a noun that refers to a person who engages in the practice of intentional self-denial, extreme asceticism, or self-mortification for spiritual or religious reasons. This term is derived from the Greek word "askesis," meaning "exercise" or "training," and is commonly associated with religious or philosophical traditions that emphasize self-discipline and detachment from worldly pleasures.
The practice of being an askites involves a deliberate renunciation of physical comforts, such as fasting, sleep deprivation, or enduring bodily hardships, as a means to attain spiritual enlightenment or closeness to a higher power. Askites are often motivated by a desire to suppress worldly desires, conquer the ego, and seek a higher state of consciousness or divine connection.
Historically, askites have been found in various religious traditions, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and ancient Greco-Roman philosophies. They may embrace a solitary lifestyle, live in remote areas, or participate in monastic communities dedicated to contemplation and spiritual growth.
While askites are admired for their dedication and commitment to their chosen path, their practices and beliefs may be seen as extreme or radical by others. Followers of asceticism often view material possessions and physical pleasures as distractions from spiritual truths, and seek to detach themselves from worldly attachments.
Overall, askites are individuals who voluntarily embrace strict self-discipline and austerity in order to cultivate deep spiritual awareness and transcend the constraints of the physical world.
Etymology of ASKITES
The word "Askites" is derived from the Greek term "askētēs" (ἀσκητής), which originates from the verb "askein" (ἀσκεῖν). "Askētēs" refers to someone who practices asceticism, which is the extreme self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures for spiritual purposes. In Ancient Greece, the term was used to describe individuals who engaged in rigorous physical and mental feats to attain a higher state of existence. Over time, the word "Askites" has been adopted and used in various languages to describe individuals who dedicate themselves to living a disciplined and minimalist lifestyle, often for religious or philosophical reasons.
