STYLITE Meaning and
Definition
-
A stylite refers to a person who practices an extreme form of asceticism in which they live atop a pillar, often for religious or spiritual purposes. It derives its roots from the Greek word "stylos," meaning pillar. This practice was particularly prevalent in early Christianity during the late 4th to 6th centuries, primarily in the Eastern Mediterranean regions.
Stylites would embark on an arduous journey of self-denial, choosing to isolate themselves from society by secluding themselves atop a pillar. Their goal was to achieve spiritual enlightenment, detachment from worldly desires, and a closer connection with God. These pillars were typically made of stone, and the stylites would live on top of them in extremely austere conditions, enduring harsh weather elements.
The stylite lifestyle involved strict abstinence, long periods of prayer, fasting, and self-mortification. They aimed to demonstrate their unwavering devotion and commitment to their faith through their chosen method of extreme asceticism. Although stylitism was predominately associated with Christianity, similar practices were also observed in other religious traditions, such as Hinduism.
The stylite movement gradually declined, primarily due to the emergence of more communal monastic orders and changes in theological trends. However, the legacy of stylitism still persists, as it represents an extraordinary testament to the lengths some individuals were willing to go to attain spiritual transcendence and achieve a union with the divine.
-
In anc. times, one of a class of religious enthusiasts who took up their abodes on the tops of columns or pillars; style of court, the practice observed by a court in its proceedings; new style-see new; old style-see old.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for STYLITE
- atylite
- ztylite
- xtylite
- dtylite
- etylite
- wtylite
- srylite
- sfylite
- sgylite
- syylite
- s6ylite
- s5ylite
- sttlite
- stglite
- sthlite
- stulite
- st7lite
- st6lite
- stykite
- stydite
Etymology of STYLITE
The word "stylite" derives from the Greek word "stylos", which means "pillar". In ancient Greek, a "stylos" referred to a column or a support. The term "stylite" specifically refers to a type of ascetic Christian hermit who would live on top of a pillar, often for many years, as a form of extreme self-denial and devotion to God. The practice of living as a stylite gained popularity during the Byzantine period and has its roots in the Eastern Christian tradition.
Similar spelling words for STYLITE
- stiltedly,
- stellite,
- stiltbird,
- stolidity,
- stelter,
- stilts,
- stalter,
- styled,
- stiletto,
- stylet,
- stultz,
- stoltz,
- stults,
- stilted,
- Stiltner,
- stilt,
- stultify,
- stellate,
- stilton,
- stoltzfus,
- Stalder,
- stolte.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
