THE RULE OF SAINT PACHOMIUS
/USTAV PREPODOBNÉHO PACHOMIA/

Vladimir KOCVAR

lecturer, Faculty of Orthodox Theology, University of Presov in Presov, Masarykova 15, 080 01 Presov, Slovakia, vladimir.kocvar@unipo.sk, 00421517724729

Abstract

Article deals with founder of coenobitic life of monks in monasteries, st. Pachomius and the rule, he gave to monasteries. We try to show links between st. Pachomius monasteries and later monastic tradition in Orthodox church. The Rule of st. Pachomius is to this day recourse by monastery foundation and the basis of monastic life is now same as it was 1600 years ago.

Keywords

St. Pachomius, coenobitic life, rule, monasticism, anachorets

SUMMARY

In every monastery founded by Pachomius, there is a strict hierarchy that is observed and is the foundation of order in the monastery. Very important role in the monastery has its superior, igumen, abba. The basis of worship life consisted of prayers addressed to the angels in revelation to Pachomius, which were common in the temple, twelve prayers during the day. In addition to prayer, the second essential part of the life of monks was and is labor. The most common job, besides working in the field, orchard or kitchen, was knitting mats, baskets and ropes from soaked palm leaves. An important part of the manifestation of the unity of the monastic brotherhood is the communal catering. Great love was shown to the sick and the pilgrim. A great role in the education and leadership of the monks had their older brothers in the monastery. They tried to accompany them, to be close to them by advice and by example. From a cursory overlook of the Venerable Pachomius Rule, his instructions of monastic life are still one of the authoritative texts of Orthodox monasticism, which in many ways still reflect the spirit of life of the first kinovial monasteries in Egypt. Life lived in spiritual improvement, but in freedom, which paradoxically for us also manifests in obedience to God or superiors.

(Language: slovak)

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