Origins of the Stylites
This century is when the stylite movement first began
5th century
Stylites were known to spend most of their time doing these two spiritual activities
Praying and fasting
Stylites believed that enduring hardship helped them grow closer to this person in Christianity.
Christ
Stylites are still remembered today through religious artwork, such as these kinds of images.
Icons and paintings
This region of the world was the birthplace of the first stylites
Syria / the Eastern Roman Empire
Name one type of harsh weather condition stylites had to endure.
Snow, rain, heat, or freezing temperatures
Their lifestyle reminded Christians that faith involved not only comfort but also these two things.
Endurance and sacrifice
Some church leaders criticized stylites for appearing to seek this.
Attention
This Greek word meaning “pillar” is the root of the term “stylite.”
stylos
Pillars symbolized these qualities, similar to how apostles were described in early Christian writings.
Strength and stability
Stylites saw the human body not as something bad, but as a tool for this kind of discipline.
Spiritual discipline
Even if the practice has faded, their example continues to challenge Christians to be strong “pillars” of what?
Faith
This spiritual practice of extreme self-discipline and avoiding worldly pleasures heavily influenced the stylites.
asceticism
Despite living alone, stylites regularly interacted with these people who came seeking help.
Visitors / followers / people seeking advice
Their actions encouraged other Christians to reflect on what it truly means to do this.
Dedicate your life to God
Stylites’ extreme lifestyle eventually became respected in this large branch of Christianity.
The Orthodox Church