What does askesis mean?
Askesis is a formal word for disciplined self-denial, especially the training or austerity associated with an ascetic religious life. In Christian writing, it can denote practices such as fasting, simplicity, chastity, or other forms of self-discipline, although the term is not limited to any single list of practices. More broadly, it means rigorous self-mastery undertaken for spiritual, philosophical, or moral purposes. The expression carries a serious, elevated tone: unlike a general description of frugal living, askesis suggests purposeful difficulty accepted as a means of cultivating virtue, insight, or devotion. In modern scholarly and religious prose, it is especially associated with the disciplined practices of ascetic Christianity. Though uncommon in everyday English, askesis is useful because it names not merely deprivation for its own sake, but the deliberate practice of directing oneself toward a larger spiritual or ethical aim.
nounDisciplined self-denial or rigorous self-training, especially as practiced in an ascetic religious or philosophical life.
- Disciplined self-denial or ascetic training, especially for spiritual, philosophical, or moral purposes.
"Through years of askesis, the monk sought spiritual clarity rather than comfort."
"The community's askesis included fasting, silence, and voluntary simplicity."
"The philosopher regarded askesis as a disciplined practice of cultivating self-mastery."
The plural is uncommon but is used when referring to distinct ascetic disciplines or practices.
"The study traces several askeses within the same monastic order."
Askesis began as a word for athletic training; its modern religious sense grew from the idea that the body and desires could be rigorously disciplined.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does askesis come from?
Askesis comes from Ancient Greek ἀσκῆσις (askēsis), meaning “training,” “exercise,” or “practice,” and is derived from ἀσκέω (askeō), “to train” or “to exercise.” The Greek derivatives ἀσκητής (askētēs), “ascetic,” and ἀσκητικός (askētikos), “ascetic” or “of an ascetic,” belong to the same word family. The religious sense developed through the application of rigorous training to the discipline of the body, passions, and way of life.
Related word forms
How askesis is actually used
Chiefly formal, scholarly, or religious. It is especially associated with ascetic Christian traditions, particularly Eastern Orthodox monasticism, but may be used more broadly in philosophical and cultural discussion. It is usually an uncountable noun, although distinct practices may be referred to in the plural.
Easily confused with askesis
Askesis emphasizes disciplined training or self-denial, whereas asceticism more broadly denotes an austere lifestyle or the doctrine of renunciation.