Asceticism

Asceticism (Greek askesis, “exercise”), practice of self-denial and renunciation of worldly pleasure in order to attain a higher degree of spirituality, intellectuality, or self-awareness. Among the ancient Greeks, the term originally denoted the training practiced by athletes and soldiers. In Greek philosophy, the adherents of Cynicism (see Cynics) and Stoicism adopted the practice of mastering desire and passion. Asceticism is practiced to some extent by the adherents of every religion. It often requires abstinence from food, drink, or sexual activity, as in fasting or celibacy. It may also require physical pain or discomfort, such as endurance of extreme heat or cold or self-punishment (see Flagellants). It may require withdrawal from the material world to a life of meditation, as in the practice of Yoga. See also Buddhism; Hinduism; Monasticism; Penance.