asceticism
uh-SET-ih-siz-um
/əˈsetɪsɪzəm/
Severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence, typically for religious or spiritual reasons.
Differs from moderation: asceticism involves active self-denial and austere practice.
The story behind the word. From Ancient Greek 'askēsis', which originally meant athletic training or physical exercise undertaken by Greek Olympic athletes. Early Christian and Eastern monks adopted the word to describe rigorous spiritual training and self-denial.
Word relationships
- austerity: Austerity stresses stern simplicity and lack of comforts, while asceticism stresses intentional spiritual self-mortification.
- self-denial: Self-denial is the broad practice of refusing oneself pleasures.
- hedonism: Hedonism is the pursuit of pleasure as the highest good.
- indulgence: Indulgence is allowing oneself unrestricted gratification.
Commonly confused with
- aestheticism: Aestheticism is devotion to beauty and art; asceticism is self-denial and spiritual discipline.
Word family
- ascetic (noun / adjective): A person practicing self-discipline; severe or austere
- ascetically (adverb): In an austere or self-denying manner
Collocations
- practice asceticism
- extreme asceticism
- rigorous asceticism
- monastic asceticism
Idioms & expressions
- denying the flesh
Example sentences
- "Before discovering the Middle Way, Siddhartha spent six years practicing extreme asceticism." Spiritual History
- "The monks' lifestyle was marked by rigorous asceticism, consisting of fasting, silent prayer, and plain clothes." Monastic Life
Memory hook
ASCETIC = AS ATHLETIC training for the soul (denying weakness). Athletic training of the spirit.
When not to use
Do not use for involuntary poverty or starvation; asceticism is a deliberate, chosen spiritual discipline.
Fun facts
- Because 'asceticism' sounds like 'aestheticism', students often confuse them, but one is about strict discipline and the other is about loving beauty!
Related words
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