It wouldn't matter if they did know the history because they can't find it in the Bible (even though it seems to me the 'sons of the prophets' lived a life that corresponds to monasticism).
I agree. I often think that this practice is biblical given that Jesus was in the wilderness for forty days meditating/contemplating and fasting. This is clearly mystical in scope given his experience with Satan as part of this, and it’s also evocative of monasticism especially the kind practiced by the Desert Fathers and Mothers.
It's seen as a diversion from what we should really be on about as the church, which is seeking to bring the gospel to those in darkness etc.
Yeah, that rings true. It’s a different focus perhaps.
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