Physical and spiritual care in the Jewish community of the Therapeutai of Alejandria.

Abstract

The therapeutai of Alexandria described by Philo distinguished themselves from other Jewish religious and philosophical currents by leading a life consecrated to contemplation, and to intellectual work that involved the study and interpretation of sacred texts, as well as the composition of writings, psalmodies, hymns and songs in honor of the divinity. This retired life, isolated from the world, was possible thanks to his efforts to fortify their spirit by spiritual exercises, based on self-control and austerity. In this article, we want to study what those behaviours were which entailed self-caring implied and its relationship with the renunciation of secular pleasures.