The Origins of Christian Monasticism

Monasticism is a specific way of life, which has its place in all world religions. Its forms differ by geographical, cultural and temporal situation, however, there are several aspects, common to all monks. It is first of all interruption of contacts with their environment and escape into solitude, renunciation of property, observance of celibacy and strict asceticism. In Christianity is monasticism understood to be an answer to call of God, its goal is to be a better follower of Jesus Christ's ideal, what is more complicated for other Christians, because of their profane duties. This thesis examines Christian monasticism in its early form, before rise of main religious orders. Special attention is paid to the personal dimension of monasticism, that is to motives, which brought Desert Fathers and their disciples to monasticism, to particularity and emphases of their spirituality, ethics and everyday life. Other intention is to present a timelessness of first monks spirituality, and that it could be still inspiring for today's Christian. But it is barely possible without comprehensive introduction to the historical background, what is the third goal of this thesis