From External Rituals to Inner Growth: The Evolution of Spiritual Prac
In the modern world, traditional symbols of religiosity—such as chains and hair coverings—have undergone a profound transformation. Once, these attributes were a vivid manifestation of inner asceticism, inseparably linked with serious spiritual work; however, today the focus has shifted toward genuine inner development. A humanistic approach and a rethinking of religious norms have led to external signs gradually giving way to a living engagement with faith, unveiling new facets of the spiritual experience.This change reflects the complex process of transitioning from ritualistic expression to a natural way of worship. In the past, rituals accompanied by the wearing of symbolic attributes were viewed as evidence of personal inner work capable of stirring deep feelings. Yet, as humanistic tendencies grow and traditional religious norms are re-evaluated, these external shells have lost both their emotional impact and substantive power. Rather than serving as a solid foundation for true inner growth, they have come to be seen as superficial signs that can sometimes even distort the authentic purpose of ascetic practice, turning into a cause for pride.In summary, modern spirituality calls for moving away from external symbolism in favor of sincere inner effort. This evolution not only allows individuals to focus on their own transformation but also opens up new horizons for spiritual exploration and personal growth. True awakening of the soul does not depend on external markers—it arises within us and enriches our understanding of life in an era of change.
Why has the ascetic practice of wearing chains and hair coverings lost its relevance in modern society?Modern society has significantly altered the perception of religious attributes, and the practice of wearing chains and hair coverings has lost its relevance precisely because its profound spiritual significance has been replaced by external symbolism that cannot provide a complete synergy of faith. In the past, such an external sign of asceticism served as a visible manifestation of inner spiritual work; however, with the rise of humanistic tendencies and the rethinking of religious norms, this ritual ceased to be regarded as the foundation of genuine worship.As noted in the source " link txt" (pages 327-328), during the transition from strict adherence to the canon to a more natural approach in religious practice, there occurred a “loss of synergy, replacing real worship with illusory imitation.” This process indicates that the earlier form of asceticism began to lose its substance and depth, transforming merely into an external manifestation incapable of serving as a solid basis for spiritual experience.Additionally, the source " link txt" (pages 2272-2273) emphasizes that although the virtuous held in high regard those who wore chains, it was exactly this external “honor” that often bred vanity, thereby distorting the original purpose of ascetic practice. In other words, when external symbols start to serve as the measure of spirituality, they risk becoming a source of pride and lose their ability to foster genuine inner transformation.Thus, in today’s world—where the emphasis has shifted from external rituals to inner spirituality and under the influence of humanistic trends—the practice of wearing chains and hair coverings no longer plays the role it once did. Its significance has diminished, as authentic spiritual development now depends not on external symbols but on deep inner work.