Neptune's Dolphins

“Polytheist Monasticism” attempts to delve into the question of what is a monastic in Polytheism. The collected nine essays describe what such a monastic does and how can a person become one. Like Polytheism, itself, pluralism abounds in the ideas presented in the essays. Multiple definitions, insights, and examples are explored for the beginning monastic to consider.

 

Because there are so few historical examples, monastics are not generally considered to be a part of Polytheism. However, as several of the essayists pointed out, Christians borrowed heavily from Pagans. Therefore, Polytheistic monastics, in some form existed, and not only that but Polytheists can borrow back from Christians.

 

In his essay, “Toward the Hermitage of the Heart,” John Michael Greer explains how a monastic path should start. The monastic should first embrace the “Rule of the Hermitage of the Heart.” Greer defines this rule as the “concept of living a monastic life of discipline and devotion in the midst of a confused and materialistic world.” He explains that it should be “a goal to strive toward, not a place to inhabit.”

 

The essayists agree that monastics are people who are called to devotion by the Gods. The monastic holds a space between the Spirit World and the human one. This is a respectful and welcoming space for beings (and places) of holy darkness and light.

 

To maintain these spaces, various essayists discuss their personal practices. One is Lectio Divina (sacred reading) which is the deliberate reading of a sacred text or icon. A person engages their senses to feel beyond the text (or object). Another practice is Custodia Orculorum (Custody of the Eyes), which is to look upon all that is good with grace. To do this, a person needs to remove impiety and miasma from their sight. Other practices such as the Holy Offices (Daily Observances) will fill the void left. Holy Offices is praying though out the day (and night) at specific times. These prayers can follow the sacred calendar of the monastic.

 

“Polytheistic Monasticism” contains essays from a wide range of people. Only two of the essayists live as typical monastics, while the others have a monastic focus in their lives. In addition, John Michael Greer provides the framework to practice monasticism.

 

As for me, I practice a semi-monastic life. My “monastic community” is my family and my neighbors. I perform the Daily Offices among other practices. Reading this book has reinforced my practices and encouraged me to explore others.

 

Book available from Moon Books: https://www.johnhuntpublishing.com/moon-books/our-books/polytheistic-monasticism-pagan-cloisters