Monasticism (from Greek: μοναχός, a solitary person) is the ancient Christian practice of withdrawal from the world in order to dedicate oneself fully and intensely to the life of the Gospel, seeking union with Jesus Christ. Thus, monks practice hesychasm, the spiritual struggle of purification (κάθαρσις), illumination (θεωρία) and divinization (θέωσις) in prayer, the sacraments and obedience.