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Brain and psyche in early Christian asceticism
1dtbrad@flash.net
Psychological Reports
|January 14, 2012
Summary
This study explores early Christian asceticism through Evagrius Ponticus, examining psychological and neuropsychological aspects of practices like fasting, prayer, and managing acedia. It analyzes his views on spiritual experiences and interpersonal dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuropsychology
- Religious Studies
Background:
- Investigates early Christian asceticism via Evagrius Ponticus (AD 345-399), the first ascetical theologian.
- Reviews Evagrius's biography and the environmental factors of desert asceticism.
Discussion:
- Analyzes ascetical practices: penitence, dispassion, pure prayer, fasting, prostrations, and prolonged standing.
- Examines psychological states: acedia (depressive syndrome), sleep, dreams, and hypnagogic states.
- Discusses Evagrius's interpretations of hallucinations and demonic phenomena, and his psychotherapy for anger.
Key Insights:
- Evagrius Ponticus integrated psychological and spiritual insights into early Christian asceticism.
- Ascetic practices had profound perceptual and psychological consequences for practitioners.
- The study provides a comprehensive neuropsychological lens on ancient spiritual disciplines.
Outlook:
- Further research into the long-term psychological effects of extreme asceticism.
- Comparative studies of Evagrius's methods with modern psychotherapy techniques.
- Exploration of the historical impact of Evagrius's teachings on subsequent mystical traditions.
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