30quotes

Quotes about monasticism

Monasticism, a spiritual and ascetic lifestyle, has captivated the human imagination for centuries. Rooted in the pursuit of deeper spiritual understanding and personal transformation, monasticism represents a commitment to simplicity, discipline, and contemplation. This way of life often involves renouncing worldly possessions and distractions to focus on inner growth and connection with the divine. People are drawn to quotes about monasticism because they encapsulate the essence of this profound journey, offering insights into the virtues of solitude, mindfulness, and devotion. These quotes serve as a source of inspiration and reflection, encouraging individuals to explore their own spiritual paths and consider the value of introspection in a fast-paced world. The timeless wisdom found in monastic teachings resonates with those seeking peace, clarity, and purpose, making it a compelling topic for anyone interested in the deeper questions of life. Whether one is drawn to the tranquility of a monastic life or simply curious about its principles, the exploration of monasticism offers a rich tapestry of thought and practice that continues to inspire and guide seekers across cultures and generations.

"
It may be fashionable to assert that all is holy, but not many are willing to haul ass to church four or five times a day to sing about it. It's not for the faint of heart.
"
Life never seems to prepare us sufficiently for epiphanies. ... they are not magical intrusions from another world, but reality, naked, and without shame.
"
The monk's ultimate goal is direct union with the Godhead. But to aim at that goal is to miss it altogether. His task is to rid himself of ego so that consciousness, once its usual discordant mental content is dumped out of it through ritual prayer and meditation, may experience nonself as a living formlessness and emptiness into which God may come, if it please Him to come.
"
To leave town, and the struggle and the swim of life, and go and hide yourself in a farmhouse is not life -- it is egoism, laziness; it is a kind of monasticism, but monasticism without action. A man needs, not six feet of land, not a farm, but the whole earth, all Nature, where in full liberty he can display all the properties and qualities of the free spirit.
"
A rich entrepreneur who lives a simple life with his family while helping as many people as he can, is more monk than a monk who lives a secluded life in a monastery meditating and begging.
"
If you are thinking of becoming a monk, in the conventional sense of the term, then let me tell you this, don’t waste your life force in being a hobo with a fancy uniform - put it to some good use instead.
"
You are not here to verify,instruct yourself, or inform curiosityor carry report. You are here to kneelwhere prayer has been valid. And prayer is more than an order of words, the conscious occupation of the praying mind, or the sound of the voice praying.
"
...for you know that soft is stronger than hard, water stronger than rock, love stronger than force." Vesadeva to Siddartha
"
Darkness is a kind of visual silence, and monks love it.
"
Curiosity, humility and compassion, these are the fundamental pillars of monkhood, if you have these in your life, then you are a monk, regardless of your financial status and relationship status.
Showing 1 to 10 of 30 results