Paul Pasquesi, an expert in early Christian asceticism in the Syriac-speaking world, explores the origins and practices of asceticism in the Late-Antique Syriac World. He discusses the distinct types of asceticism that emerged in the 4th century, the persecution and absorption of Christians in the Roman and Sasanian realms, and the extreme self-discipline and visions experienced by ascetics. The chapter also delves into reconstructing ancient experiences based on texts and the challenges of interpreting visionary imagery.