How does one define 'the monastic life'?

[Alex Templeton]

Dear fellow Christians, out of curiosity I was wondering what is the "monastic life" like any replys are most appreciated!
God Bless,
Sincerely
Slex Templeton

[Herman Blaydoe]

I am not a monastic myself, so I post with some trepidation, but I think the best way to find out about what is often referred to as "the angelic life" would be to visit a monastery yourself. Many Orthodox monasteries observe the ancient custom of providing up to three days of hospitality to all who ask and longer visits can be arranged with the abbot on a case-by-case basis.

You can find some useful information here (and the location of the nearest monastery): Orthodox Monasteries of North America (http://omna.malf.net)

[Peter Farrington]

Link should be this Orthodox Monasteries of North America (http://omna.malf.net/)

[Owen Jones]

The monastic life is the life that Christ lived, unburdened by worldly obligations and concerns.

[Amy]

Alex,

Also, besides the link I mailed to you, I wanted to share a book regarding the monastic life that aided my journey toward Orthodoxy. It is by Esther de Waal titled, Seeking God The Way of St. Benedict Esther shares her views and insights on the Rule of St. Benedict and it gave me an insight into the vows, the sacrifices, the joys and victories in the monastic way of life. I especially enjoyed the chapter on "Balance". It's such a blessing to know that we deal with nothing new really. We face the same struggles and temptations that earlier generations faced..and we can learn SO much from those who have "finished the race well" .

[Owen Jones]

Monasticism itself is a perpetual labour of conquering passions and uprooting them in order that, being in a pure and immaculate state, one may preserve oneself before the face of God. This, then, is your task! Give your attention to it, and direct all your powers towards it.
- St Theophan the Recluse

[Alex Templeton]

Thank you all for the informative replys and God Bless!!!!
Sincerely,
Alex Templeton

[Anthony]

Dear Alex,

You might like to read this article (http://www.kosovo.net/monasticism.html), as well as those in the Monasticism section of this site.

Anthony