Trappists, pronounced as /ˈtræp.ɪsts/, is the correct spelling of a community of monks who follow the Rule of Saint Benedict. The monks are known for their austere way of life, silent meditations, and manual labor. The term "Trappist" originated from La Trappe Abbey, a monastery in France that gave birth to the reform movement. The word is spelled with a double 'p' to reflect its French origin as "trapiste." The IPA phonetic transcription helps understand the pronunciation of the word and ensures that there is no confusion in its spelling.
Trappists are a religious order and a branch of the Cistercian Order, founded in the 17th century by Armand Jean le Bouthillier de Rancé. The term "Trappists" refers specifically to the monks and nuns residing in monasteries that follow the rules established by de Rancé.
Trappists are well-known for their dedication to a contemplative and ascetic way of life centered on prayer and work, striving to achieve self-sufficiency and self-sustainability. They emphasize silence, solitude, simplicity, and humility as essential virtues to foster spiritual growth.
The name "Trappists" stems from the name of their mother abbey, La Trappe, located in France. This abbey experienced a reform under de Rancé's guidance, leading to the establishment of stricter and more disciplined monastic practices. This reform became the foundation for the Trappists' way of life, characterized by a rigorous adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict.
Trappist monasteries are typically isolated and set apart from the distractions of the outside world, allowing the monks and nuns to lead lives completely devoted to prayer, reflection, and manual labor. Their activities often include farming, brewing beer, making cheese, and other goods, which help sustain the community economically.
The Trappists are recognized for their commitment to simplicity, hospitality, and charity. While their primary focus is on their spiritual development, they may also engage in works of service or provide retreats and spiritual guidance to visitors seeking a more contemplative experience or guidance in their own spiritual quests.
Overall, the essence of the Trappist way of life is found in their pursuit of holiness, through the harmonious combination of prayer, work, and community living
The word "Trappists" is derived from the name of the religious order known as the "Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance", commonly referred to as the Trappist Order. The name "Trappist" comes from the name of the monastery where the order originated.
The Trappist Order was established in 1664 in the Abbey of La Trappe, located in Normandy, France. The abbey itself was named after a small swampy valley, "la Trappe" in French, where the monks built their monastery. The original abbey is known for its strict adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict, emphasizing a life of prayer, silence, and manual labor.
Over time, the name "Trappists" became synonymous with the members of the Order and expanded to cover all the monasteries following the same tradition.