The Most Famous Hermit, Ranked

Choose the hermit you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 26, 2024 07:45
Hermit figures have often been cloaked in mystery and solitude, their lives a tapestry of quiet contemplation and profound insight. Through understanding these individuals, one captures glimpses into lifestyles of detachment and self-discovery, which have intrigued and inspired societies throughout history. By ranking these elusive figures, we offer a unique lens through which to appreciate their impact on cultural and philosophical thought. This community-driven ranking is continually shaped by your votes and opinions, reflecting a collective perspective on who stands out as the most influential hermit. Each vote contributes to a deeper understanding and appreciation of these enigmatic individuals, highlighting their lasting relevance in our modern world. Engage with the list, cast your vote, and see how your views compare with those of the broader community.

Who Is the Most Famous Hermit?

  1. 1
    67
    votes

    Saint Anthony the Great

    Christian monk from Egypt, revered since his death as a saint. He is often referred to as the Father of All Monks.
    • Era: 251–356 AD
  2. 2
    13
    votes

    Thomas Merton

    An American Trappist monk, writer, theologian, mystic, poet, social activist, and scholar of comparative religion.
    • Era: 1915–1968
  3. 3
    12
    votes

    Richard Proenneke

    An American self-educated naturalist who lived alone for nearly thirty years in the mountains of Alaska in a log cabin he had constructed by hand.
    • Era: 1968–1999
  4. 4
    0
    votes

    Agafia Lykova

    A Russian Old Believer who has lived alone in the Siberian Taiga for most of her life, maintaining a solitary existence.
    • Era: 1944–present
  5. 5
    0
    votes

    Laozi

    An ancient Chinese philosopher and writer, known as the reputed author of the Tao Te Ching and the founder of philosophical Taoism.
    • Era: 6th century BC
  6. 6
    0
    votes

    Valentin Tomberg

    A mystic, philosopher, and scholar who led a reclusive life, focusing on Christian Hermeticism and esoteric Christianity.
    • Era: 1900–1973
  7. 7
    0
    votes

    Simeon Stylites

    A Syriac ascetic saint who achieved fame for living 37 years on a small platform on top of a pillar near Aleppo in Syria.
    • Era: c. 390–459
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Sylvain Tesson

    A French writer and traveller who spent six months living alone in a cabin on the shores of Lake Baikal, Siberia.
    • Era: 2010
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Diogenes of Sinope

    A Greek philosopher and one of the most famous figures of Cynicism, known for his ascetic lifestyle and criticism of social values.
    • Era: Ancient Greece (412 or 404 – 323 BC)
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Christopher Thomas Knight

    Known as the North Pond Hermit, Knight lived in isolation in Maine for 27 years without human contact.
    • Era: 1986–2013

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous hermit. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or hermit is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2518 views
  • 92 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each hermit once every 24 hours. The rank of each hermit is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Hermit

Saint Anthony the Great
Rank #1 for the most famous hermit: Saint Anthony the Great (Source)
Throughout history, some individuals have chosen to live in solitude. These people, often called hermits, seek a life away from society. They find comfort in isolation and focus on inner peace. Their lives intrigue many, leading to stories and legends about their choices and experiences.

Hermits often live in remote places. They might choose forests, mountains, or deserts. The natural world becomes their home. They build simple shelters or find caves to live in. Their needs are few. They often grow their own food or gather it from the wild. Some rely on the charity of nearby villagers. Their days are spent in quiet reflection, prayer, or meditation.

Many hermits seek spiritual growth. They believe solitude helps them connect with a higher power or understand deeper truths. They spend hours in prayer or contemplation. This spiritual focus can lead them to a state of peace and contentment. They often become wise and serene individuals.

Others choose the hermit life to escape the demands of society. They might feel overwhelmed by the noise and pace of modern life. Solitude offers them a chance to slow down and find clarity. They can think deeply without distractions. This way of life helps them find balance and purpose.

Some hermits become famous despite their desire for solitude. Their wisdom and unique way of life attract attention. People seek them out for advice or guidance. Stories about their lives spread far and wide. They become symbols of simplicity and spiritual depth.

The life of a hermit is not easy. They face many challenges. Harsh weather, wild animals, and loneliness are constant companions. They must be strong and resourceful. Their commitment to their chosen path is unwavering. They find joy in small things and beauty in the natural world around them.

The decision to become a hermit is deeply personal. It requires a strong sense of self and a desire to live a life of simplicity. Hermits often reflect on their past and learn from it. They grow as individuals and find peace within themselves.

Their stories inspire many. They show that a life of solitude can lead to profound insights and inner peace. Hermits remind us of the value of quiet reflection in a noisy world. They teach us that happiness does not depend on material wealth or social status. Instead, it comes from within.

In today's fast-paced world, the life of a hermit seems distant and foreign. Yet, their lessons remain relevant. They encourage us to take time for ourselves, to reflect, and to seek inner peace. Their lives show that simplicity and solitude can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

The legacy of hermits continues to fascinate and inspire. Their choice to live apart from society challenges us to think about our own lives. They remind us of the importance of finding our own path and staying true to it. Through their stories, we learn that solitude can be a powerful tool for personal growth and spiritual development.

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