St.

Basil the Great: Life, Works, and Contributions

Saint Basil the Great, also known as Basil of Caesarea, was a prominent figure
in early Christianity and a key figure in the development of Christian theology. Born
around 330 AD in Caesarea, Cappadocia (modern-day Kayseri, Turkey)1, he became
one of the most influential theologians, monastic leaders, and intellectuals of his
time.2

I. Early Life and Education:

St. Basil was born into the wealthy Cappadocian Greek 3 and a devout
Christian family. His parents, St. Basil the Elder 4 and St. Emmelia, were known for
their piety and philanthropy. St. Basil came from a large family, with nine siblings,
many of whom later became prominent figures in the Christian church with both his
parents and four of his nine siblings later recognized as saints: Macrina the Younger,
Naucratius, Peter of Sebaste, and Gregory of Nyssa. From a young age, St. Basil was
immersed in the Christian faith through the teachings and examples set by his parents
and grandparents. His family's devotion to Christianity laid the foundation for his
future spiritual journey and influenced his decision to dedicate his life to Christ.
He received a well-rounded education in rhetoric5 and philosophy in Athens,
where he became acquainted with influential intellectuals and philosophers of the
time and theology in Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia.6 This education profoundly
influenced his thinking and later shaped his theological contributions. After his
studies, Basil embraced a monastic lifestyle and devoted himself to ascetic practices
after he encountered Eustathius of Sebaste, a charismatic bishop and ascetic. 7 He
sought spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of Christianity and spent time in
the desert, which exposed him to the practices of hermits and ascetics. His
experiences during this period shaped his approach to spiritual discipline and later
influenced his works on monasticism.

1
Bowersock et al. (1999), p.336
2
Hardy, E. R. (2023)
3
Marvin Perry; Myrna Chase; James Jacob; Margaret Jacob; Theodore H. Von Laue (2012). Western Civilization:
Ideas, Politics, and Society. Cengage Learning. p. 184.
4
Quasten (1986), p. 204.
5
Rousseau (1994), p. 1.
6
Hildebrand (2007), p. 19.
7
Hildebrand (2007), pp. 19–20.
II. Monastic Life and Asceticism:
St. Basil the Great's monastic life and commitment to asceticism were defining
aspects of his spiritual journey. After completing his education and spending time in
Athens, Basil returned to his hometown of Caesarea 8, where he embraced a more
contemplative and ascetic lifestyle. While he admired the ascetics’ piety and
prayerfulness, the isolated life did not appeal to him. 9 Basil had been trained by
Eustathius of Sebaste, a notable anchorite near Pontus. They did, however, eventually
differed over dogma.10
Inspired by his encounters with Christian ascetics during his time in Athens,
St. Basil decided to embrace the monastic life. 11 He felt a calling to devote himself
entirely to God and pursue a deeper spiritual connection through solitude, prayer, and
self-discipline. Basil understood monasticism as a means of imitating Christ and
following the teachings of the Gospel in their purest form. St. Basil played a vital role
in the development of communal monasticism.12 He founded several monastic
communities in Cappadocia, the most well-known being the Basiliad13 in Pontus,
which later became a model for other monastic establishments. These communities
followed a structured communal life and shared resources to support each other's
spiritual growth. His commitment to asceticism was profound. He practiced rigorous
self-discipline, fasting14, and physical austerity, considering them essential for
spiritual progress. Basil believed that self-denial and detachment from material
desires allowed the soul to become more attuned to God's presence and grace. His
monastic life was not limited to physical austerity; he also emphasized the importance
of intellectual pursuits. He encouraged his fellow monks to engage in study,
contemplation, and theological discussions. This emphasis on intellectual growth
within the monastic context set the stage for the development of a theologically
informed monastic tradition of the Eastern Church.15

8
Attwater, Donald and Catherine Rachel John. The Penguin Dictionary of Saints. 3rd edition. New York: Penguin
Books, 1993. ISBN 0-14-051312-4.
9
Merredith (1995), p. 21.
10
McSorley, Joseph (1907). "St. Basil the Great" . In Herbermann, Charles (ed.). Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 2.
New York: Robert Appleton Company.
11
Murphy (1930), p. 94.
12
K. E. Kirk, The Vision of God: The Christian Document of the summum bonum (London, 1931), 9.118, (as quoted
in Meredith)
13
The Living Age. Vol. 48. Littell, Son and Company. 1856. p. 326.
14
De jejunio, Sermon 1.
15
Attwater, Donald and Catherine Rachel John. The Penguin Dictionary of Saints. 3rd edition. New York: Penguin
Books, 1993. ISBN 0-14-051312-4.
 St. Basil's approach to monasticism involved a balance between prayer and
manual labor. He believed that combining prayerful contemplation with productive
work provided a holistic approach to spirituality and fostered a sense of community
and cooperation among the monks.16 St. Basil's influence on the monastic movement
extended beyond his lifetime. His writings, especially his "Ascetica," provided
guidance and teachings for monks and established a foundation for monastic life and
practices. His rule of communal life became influential in Eastern Orthodox
monasticism and laid the groundwork for subsequent monastic developments. St.
Basil's commitment to asceticism and monastic life not only impacted the lives of
those within the monastic communities but also influenced Christian spirituality as a
whole. His writings and teachings on self-discipline, humility, and devotion to God
continue to inspire and guide Christians in their spiritual journey.

III. Works of St. Basil the Great:

St. Basil the Great was a prolific writer and theologian, and his works covered
a wide range of topics, including theology, philosophy, ethics, and monasticism.
Some of his most notable works include:

1. "On the Holy Spirit" (De Spiritu Sancto): This treatise is one of St. Basil's most
famous works and a significant contribution to the Trinitarian debates of the fourth
century. In this work, Basil defends the divinity and co-equality of the Holy Spirit
with the Father and the Son. He emphasizes the Holy Spirit's role in the life of the
Church and the believer.17
2. "Hexameron": In this work, St. Basil explores the six days of creation as described
in the book of Genesis. He combines theological insights with philosophical
reflections to explain the significance of God's creative work and its implications for
understanding the world and humanity's place in it.18
3. "Moralia" (also known as "Homilies" or "Sermons"): This is a collection of St.
Basil's homilies or sermons on various biblical passages and moral topics. These

16
Murphy (1930), p. 95.
17
 Jackson, Blomfield. "Basil: Letters and Select Works", Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, (Philip Schaff and Henry
Wace, eds.) .T&T Clark, Edinburgh
18
 Deferrari, Roy J. "The Classics and the Greek Writers of the Early Church: Saint Basil." The Classical Journal Vol.
13, No. 8 (May 1918). 579–91.
sermons offer practical guidance on Christian living, ethics, and virtues. They
demonstrate Basil's pastoral concern for the spiritual well-being of his audience.19
4. "De Asceticis": This work, often referred to as "Ascetica" or "On Asceticism,"
addresses the principles and practices of the ascetic life. St. Basil provides advice and
guidance to monks and those seeking a life of deeper spiritual commitment. He
discusses the value of self-discipline, humility, and detachment from worldly
desires.20
5. "Regulae Fusius Tractatae" (Longer Rules): This is a comprehensive monastic rule
that St. Basil formulated for the monastic communities he founded. It outlines
guidelines for communal life, prayer, work, and discipline within the monastic setting.
This rule became influential in Eastern Orthodox monasticism.21
6. "Epistles": St. Basil wrote numerous letters (epistles) to various individuals,
including bishops, monks, and political figures. These letters addressed theological
controversies, moral issues, and practical matters related to the administration of the
Church.22
7. "Ad Adolescentes" (To Young Men): This work is a series of exhortations and
moral instructions addressed to young men. St. Basil offers guidance on how to live a
virtuous and meaningful life, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a strong
character and faith.23
8. "Epistulae Canonicae" (Canonical Letters): St. Basil wrote several canonical letters,
addressing issues related to Church discipline, doctrine, and the governance of the
Church. These letters played a significant role in resolving ecclesiastical disputes and
establishing norms for the Christian community.24

IV. Contributions of St. Basil the Great:

A. Basilian Monasticism:

19
McSorley, Joseph (1907). "St. Basil the Great" . In Herbermann, Charles (ed.). Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 2.
New York: Robert Appleton Company.
20
Clarke, W. K. Lowther (William Kemp Lowther), b. 1879, p. 63
21
Besse, J. (1907). Rule of St. Basil. In The Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company.
22
Translated by Blomfield Jackson. From Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Second Series, Vol. 8. Edited by Philip
Schaff and Henry Wace. (Buffalo, NY: Christian Literature Publishing Co., 1895.) Revised and edited for New
Advent by Kevin Knight.
23
Basil, Saint, Bishop of Caesarea, Address to Young Men, ISBN: 071560872X
24
Basil, & Jackson, B. (1895).
St. Basil's monastic rule25, known as the Basilian monasticism, laid the foundation for
communal monastic life. His emphasis on moderation, work, and prayer provided a
balanced approach to spiritual growth, influencing future monastic orders.26

B. Defense of Orthodox Christianity:

In an era marked by theological controversies, St. Basil played a crucial role in
defending orthodox Christianity against heresies like Arianism. 27 His writings and
speeches advocated for the Nicene Creed's acceptance, affirming the Son's
consubstantiality with the Father.28

C. Development of Liturgical Traditions:

St. Basil's contributions extended to the development of liturgical practices. 29 His
liturgy, known as the Divine Liturgy of Saint Basil, is still used in Eastern Orthodox
churches during significant feast days, such as the Nativity of Christ.30

V. Legacy of St. Basil the Great:

A. Influence on Christian Theology:

St. Basil's theological contributions significantly impacted Christian thought, earning
him the title "Doctor of the Church31." His ideas on the Holy Trinity32, the nature of
God, and the importance of charity continue to shape Christian theology33 to this day.

B. Sainthood and Feast Day:

St. Basil's sanctity and impact on Christianity led to his canonization as a saint. The
Eastern Orthodox Church34 commemorates him on January 1st35, celebrating his
legacy and contributions to the faith.
25
Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2007)
26
Way, A. C. (1995)
27
Hardy, E. R. (2023).
28
Connelly, S. (2019).
29
Goggin, John (1913). "Liturgy of St. Basil" . In Herbermann, Charles (ed.). Catholic Encyclopedia. New York:
Robert Appleton Company.
30
Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2023)
31
Rice, Fr. Larry (2015).
32
Marshall, D. T. (2011).
33
Entwistle, David N. (30 June 2015). Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity. p. 148. ISBN
9781498223485.
34
Ellwood, Robert S.; Alles, Gregory D. (2007). Ellwood Encyclopedia of World Religions. p. 128. ISBN 978-1-4381-
1038-7. The Eastern Orthodox Churches are properly known as the "Orthodox Catholic Church
35
St Basil the Great the Archbishop of Caesarea, in Cappadocia. OCA – Feasts and Saints.
Saint Basil the Great's life, works, and contributions stand as a testament to his
profound influence on early Christianity. His theological writings, commitment to
social justice, and establishment of monastic communities continue to inspire and
shape the Christian faith. As we reflect on his contributions, we recognize his
enduring impact on theology, spirituality, and Christian charitable practices, making
him one of the most influential figures in the history of Christianity.