The meaning of the monastic vows stability and fidelity to the monastic way of life and their biblical background

Abstract

The vows of stability (stabilitas) and conversion of life (conversio, conversatio morum) which differ from the typical religious vows (poverty, chastity, obedience) are deeply rooted in the Bible. They indicate the important features of the attitude of the disciples of Christ who are called to exercise endurance (ὑπομονή), patience (μακροθυμία), fidelity (πίστις), the fruit of the Spirit (Ga 5 : 22) and conversion (μετάνοια). The monastic profession should be continual effort to take care of faithfulness to God and to overcome self-weakness. It can be helpful also for other consecrated people and all Christians who want to lead the consequent life of the children of God according to the baptismal promises and to grow in love of God and people.

Keywords

• Biblia
• nawrócenie
• reguła
• stałość
• wierność
• wytrwałość
• zakonność obyczajów