Some people choose to live as solitary individuals who spend much time meditating and praying to God. This is known as a hermitage. They often give up many worldly possessions so they can focus on their relationship with God without distraction.
There are also times when they find themselves wanting for romantic relationships. They may have sexual desires that conflict with their vow of celibacy.
One common inner conflict is the feeling of loneliness. While they might feel closer to God during periods of solitude, they still miss having someone to share their life with. It's hard to imagine being alone forever, especially if you've been accustomed to having a partner. Some may even question whether or not they made the right decision by choosing this lifestyle.
Another issue is feeling guilty about desiring sexual intimacy. Hermits may believe that seeking out sex would go against their religious beliefs and values. They may feel conflicted between following their heart and following their faith. In some cases, they may turn to masturbation as a way to satisfy their physical needs without breaking their promise to God.
Hermits may struggle with feelings of temptation. They see other people in their daily lives and feel drawn towards them physically, but know that engaging in any kind of sexual activity would be a sin. They may try to avoid these situations altogether, but sometimes it isn't possible.
They could be working at an all-male monastery where physical contact is forbidden, yet they still experience urges.
Hermits may worry that they will never find love again after making such drastic changes in their life. They fear losing out on potential opportunities for companionship due to their choice. This can lead to regret, self-doubt, and depression over time.
Hermits may also wonder what life would have been like had they chosen differently. They may fantasize about how things could have turned out if they hadn't given up worldly possessions and relationships so soon. They might wonder if they missed out on something special by choosing this path.
Despite these challenges, many hermits persevere because they feel called to serve God in this way. They view celibacy as a form of sacrifice and accept the consequences that come with it.
The inner conflicts can be difficult to manage, especially when they arise unexpectedly.
What inner conflicts arise for hermits attempting to reconcile sexual desire with prolonged religious devotion and fasting?
Hermits who attempt to reconcile their sexual desires with prolonged religious devotion and fasting may experience inner conflicts related to the tension between physical needs and spiritual values, feelings of guilt and shame associated with indulging in sexual activity, and the potential impact on their reputation within their religious community.