eremitism

Eremitism is the practice of living as a hermit or eremite, a person who withdraws entirely or largely from society to pursue contemplative life, ascetic discipline, and prayer. The term derives from the Greek eremos, meaning "desert" or "solitude." Eremites typically live in solitude, often in a small dwelling, and maintain a routine of manual work, prayer, and fasting. The practice contrasts with cenobitic monasticism, where members live in community.

Eremitism has deep roots in the Christian tradition, notably among the Desert Fathers and Mothers in early Egypt, such as St. Anthony the Great and St. Paul of Thebes, whose solitary asceticism influenced later monastic styles. Over time, eremitic life persisted in various forms in Europe and the East, sometimes as solitary practitioners under religious supervision, sometimes as part of larger monastic orders or diocesan recognition.

In modern times, eremitism remains a viable form of consecrated life in several Christian churches. In the Catholic Church, eremites may be recognized as consecrated solitary life under canonical guidance, sometimes living under a rule or the direction of a spiritual father rather than within a fixed cloister. Protestant and Orthodox traditions also preserve eremitic practices, though under different ecclesial structures. Beyond Christianity, renunciant or solitary traditions exist in other religions, not always described as eremitism by name.