Exhortation to Monks

Fasting cuts off the excess of foods, and self-control with prayer removes the lawlessness of fornication. Non-possession restrains the love of money, which is the mother of idolatry, and hope in God cuts off bodily anxiety. The reading of divine writings and wakefulness with prayer restrain a wandering mind. Long-suffering and psalmody soothe the onset of anger. Endurance and tears suppress acedia, and hatred of pleasures silences worldly sorrow.

Humility acquires hospitality, and turning away from ambition and superiority restrains them; as for pride, that ancient evil, which is detestable before the Lord, against which even God resists (James 4:6), immeasurable humility brings it to rest, saying: 'I am dust and ashes' (Gen 18:27). And again: 'Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it' (Ps 127:1),' and one must guard oneself, being tested. Just as it is impossible for turbid water to be cleansed if it does not remain still, so it is impossible to know a monk's state without stillness. Just as it is impossible for an athlete to be crowned without wrestling, so it is impossible to become a Christian without struggles. Just as a yoke is not equal if one part is heavy, so it is impossible to fulfill God's commandment while the fleshly mind prevails. Just as it is impossible to learn a craft without having studied diligently, so it is impossible to acquire prayer without having persevered in God in rectitude.