The Origin and Meaning of Hezekasm in Eastern Orthodoxy

Hezekasm is a spiritual movement within Eastern Orthodoxy that focuses on reaching a deeper level of connection with God through contemplation and the removal of distractions. It originated around the year 1000 and is characterized by a spirit of quietness and emptiness. Hezekasm emphasizes the importance of contemplation as a way to go beyond mere meditation and truly enter into a deeper encounter with God. Various spiritual disciplines and practices are used to achieve this state of inner stillness and closeness to God, such as the Jesus Prayer and specific bodily postures. The ultimate goal of Hezekasm is theosis, the participation in the divine nature, where individuals can experience the uncreated light of God's energies. While Hezekasm is a central aspect of Eastern Orthodox spirituality, it offers insights and practices that can be beneficial for Christians of all traditions in their pursuit of a closer relationship with God.