Basil of Caesarea and the Problem of the Wealth of Monasteries

Abstract

The work of Basil of Caesarea (c.330–79; Bishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia from 370) as an organizer and theologian of the monastic life has long been recognized as an important part of his activity as a bishop, and has been extensively studied. The principal authentic ascetic works of Basil which have formed the basis of this study are traditionally known as his monastic rules, though this description is not strictly accurate, since the rules are in fact composed of a series of questions and answers about the organization and administration of monasteries, about the theological principles of the monastic life, and about the interpretation of particular texts of Scripture. Basil’s answers almost always refer to Scripture, and show his asceticism to have been based firmly on obedience to the commandments of Christ as he interpreted them, particularly to the commandments of love of God and love of neighbour, which are discussed at the beginning of LR. Basil believed that obedience to the commandments could best be practised in the context of the common life, rather than that of the solitary monk.