Monasticism (from the Greek μοναχός – solitary, unique; also living in solitude; μόνος – alone, solitary) is a way of life for Orthodox Christians who dedicate themselves entirely to prayer and ascetic endeavors.
In Rus-Ukraine, monks were often referred to as inoks, and monasticism as inochestvo (otherness).
The ancient ascetics of faith withdrew from the world not out of fear of being unsaved, but due to the world’s lack of appeal. They retreated into the desert not as into a dark and damp grave, but as into a blooming and joyful realm of the spirit. Diadochos of Photiki (5th century) articulated the guiding principle for leaving the world: “We voluntarily renounce the pleasures of this life only when we savor the sweetness of God in the fullness of complete perception.”
Monastic tonsure is preceded by a period of service and obedience. In the traditions of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, after successfully passing the test of obedience, the tonsure into the monastic life is performed. This rite varies by the number of vows made before God, differing ascetic rules, obediences, and external monastic garments.
Archimandrite Sophrony (Chupryna)