SIMEON STYLITES Meaning and
Definition
-
Simeon Stylites refers to a unique religious phenomenon that emerged in the Christian tradition during the 5th and 6th centuries. It specifically denotes an individual who practiced extreme asceticism and chosen to live atop a pillar or column for an extended period, usually for years or even decades. The practice was named after the most famous of these hermits, Simeon Stylites the Elder (c. 390–459 AD), who lived in what is now Syria.
The term "Simeon Stylites" can be further extended to refer to the individuals who adopted a similar lifestyle of pillar-dwelling, seeking to imitate St. Simeon's holiness and devoutness. These ascetics would voluntarily isolate themselves atop a tall, narrow pillar, often located in a remote area or at the center of a bustling community, thereby attracting attention and admiration from the general public.
The purpose behind this spiritual practice varied among individuals. Some aimed to achieve a greater level of closeness to God and escape worldly temptations by subjecting themselves to extreme solitude and hardship. Others hoped to serve as examples of piety and virtue to inspire and convert those who witnessed their asceticism.
Simeon Stylites became legendary within Christianity, and his followers and imitators were known as "Simeon Stylites." This unique form of asceticism gained popularity during the Byzantine period and was widely recognized as a symbol of religious dedication and saintliness. The practice eventually declined in the Middle Ages but left a lasting impact on Christian spirituality and religious imagination.
Etymology of SIMEON STYLITES
The word "Simeon Stylites" has its origin in the combination of two terms: "Simeon" and "stylites".
1. "Simeon": "Simeon" is a name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew name "Shim'on". It means "he has heard" or "hearkening" in Hebrew. In the context of "Simeon Stylites", it refers to a 5th-century Christian ascetic known as Simeon the Stylite.
2. "Stylites": "Stylites" comes from the Greek word "stylos", meaning "pillar" or "column". It refers to a type of asceticism practiced by certain Christian monks who lived on top of pillars or columns. These monks were known as "pillar saints" or "pillar hermits".
